The paper describes the Temporary Care Services program in Massachusetts which provides in-home respite care to families with developmentally delayed children. Events which led to the program's development are reviewed. Respite care is offered in six areas: emergencies, scheduled routine events, social activities, family life, child care for working parents, and "overnights." Respite workers (many of whom are students) are trained in such areas as behavior management, home safety, and self-help skills. A training manual accompanies the training program for respite workers. Fund raising efforts are mentioned, and experiences with other agencies are related. (SW)