Family and Professional collaborations are always very important, and these become critical when advocating for children with special needs. It may be the very first time that a family is learning on becoming an advocate for their child. Professionals in the early childhood/special needs field have the ability to support the family providing orientation, resources and a strong collaboration.

There are five components for family-professional collaborations:

1. CULTURAL RESPONSIVENESS:
2. EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION
3. CONFERENCES AND MEETINGS
4. HOME VISITS
5. ONGOING SUPPORT AND INFORMATION EXCHANGE

Cultural Responsiveness is a very important component because it plays a significant role on how the collaboration between family and professionals will develop. Each person has a unique perspective on issues and all bring a set of values and beliefs to the collaboration. Early childhood professionals must understand that culture is an essential factor on shaping the family’s attitude towards disabilities, health, illness, child-rearing practices, etc. Every professional carries with them their own cultural values as well. therefore, it’s very important to have a diverse collaboration team who may understand the family’s culture by trying to understand their culture and asking for clarification when needed.

Effective Communication is another important component. Communication is conveyed in many forms:

a) Non verbal communication which refers to body language including: facial expressions, posture and gestures, and physical proximity.

b) Verbal communication which includes: voice tone, conversation rhythm (pausing, speech tempo, etc.).

In collaborating with families, it’s very important that family members and professionals engage on a clear understanding and knowledge of the expectations, obligations, and responsibilities of each party in the relationship.

Conferences and Meetings must be effective and require advance planning. In the busy and sometimes overwhelming schedule of families having children with special needs, it’s very important that professionals contact the family ahead of time to explain the purpose of meetings and conferences. It’s equally important to orient the family as to what will be accomplished, and what’s to be on the agenda. Providing a space for the family to address issues relevant to them on the agenda is highly encouraged and valued.

Home Visits are another way to collaborate with families. Home visits should also be planned and coordinated in advance. It’s important for the home visitor to consider the family’s schedule so it’s important to arrive and leave on time, and cancel when it’s absolutely necessary, greet and interact with all family members, provide (have at hand) resources and materials the family may need, and provide the family with a summary of what was discussed and accomplished.  There are many other aspects to consider during home visits, and your book includes a detailed list of them.

Ongoing Support and Information Exchange is an essential component as the family is the best advocate for their children. It’s important that professionals validate and support family members on this role through encouragement, support and optimism.