You are an advocate for your children at school, at the doctor’s office, and in your community. Being a family leader extends the advocacy skills you already have, to benefit all families. While you may want to take the next step, you may feel a variety of barriers that keep you from getting involved in family leadership activities. We’ll discuss these barriers and how to overcome them to get involved in family leadership.

What’s Keeping You from Advocating?

Public Speaking

Families tell us that they want to share their ideas and perspectives, but a fear of public speaking can keep them from joining the conversation.

Overcoming this Barrier 

• • • Bring another parent with you to attend the event so can support one another and gain strength in knowing you’re not alone.
    • Write down your thoughts before you leave home. Preparing will give you the confidence of knowing you’re not going to miss any of the important points you want to make and can help you stay focused.
    • Practice speaking out loud. It may feel silly but practice in front of a mirror, to your spouse, your dog, or anyone who will listen.
    • The more you speak in public, the easier it gets. Take a small step out of your comfort zone and you will be surprised how much easier it becomes.

“I don’t like public speaking…It’s super uncomfortable, but I have also learned that things might not get better if I don’t stand up. I hold onto the fact that I’m an expert in my family’s experience. I know this topic because this issue affects my life and my son’s life, and I lean hard into that so I can push past the temporary anxiety of public speaking. Now, I volunteer to speak about my family’s experiences. The more I do it, the easier it gets.” ꟷA Wisconsin Parent

Events to Grow Your Skills

Advocacy for Change At this annual event, held every March in Madison, you’ll learn more about policy advocacy and creating an effective message for decision-makers.

Wisconsin Family Leadership Institute (WIFLI) Guides you on the path to becoming a family leader and continues to support you long after the   series ends.

Not Enough Time

As a parent and caregiver of a child with disabilities, life can be unpredictable and leave us with very little downtime. Family members tell us that the thought of adding another commitment or responsibility to their schedule can feel overwhelming.

Overcoming this Barrier

• • • Find ways to get involved that fit into your schedule. For example, write to your elected officials after the kids have gone to bed or during your lunch break. You can also support another parent or be a mentor parent with a phone call or text when you have time.
    • Join a committee or board that meets at a time that works for you. You can also ask the committee chair if you can join the meeting virtually (by phone or video) if you can’t get away from home. If you’ll need to pay for childcare, request a stipend to offset the cost.
    • There are short-term or one-time ways to offer your input and perspective. For instance, if there’s an issue that’s important to you, briefly attend a schoolboard or Parent-Teacher Organization (PTO) meeting to be the voice for parents who have children with special education needs.