Becoming a Family Advisor
Are you a parent that wants to make a difference?
As a parent you have much to offer, teach, and share. You bring unique experiences, perspectives, and expertise. Everyone benefits when families and providers work together to improve healthcare, education, and community life for children with special health and/or developmental needs. We hope to give you general information and guidance on what's involved in becoming an effective family advisor, no matter what setting you choose.
A family advisor is a parent or other family member who draws on personal experiences to influence decisions and help shape programs and policies. This may include a wide variety of activities such as: being a member of an advisory council, board, focus group, community coalition or becoming a reviewer of written or web based materials, or being a program evaluator, teacher, trainer, speaker and/or mentor to other families.
By getting involved as a family advisor, you will:
- reflect and share personal experiences, observations and family perspectives.
- pose thoughtful questions and give feedback.
- suggest ideas and propose solutions.
- educate others.
General guidance for becoming a family advisor:
- Find opportunities to become a family advisor
- Decide if an opportunity is the right fit for you
- Consider how much to share about your child and family
Tips to prepare you for a specific family advisor event: