Discusses Parent-to-Parent support programs for parents of children with special needs, focusing on the matched experience of two parents, results of a national survey of Parent-to-Parent programs, guidelines for starting a Parent-to-Parent program, and resources for those interested in Parent-to-Parent support programs. (Author/DB)

This workbook is a guide for the development of self-help/advocacy groups for parents of children and adolescents who have serious emotional problems. The workbook offers background information and then offers guidelines for: (1) creating a beginning plan for the development of a self-help/advocacy group; (2) developing concrete plans for…

The task group process and its operating rules are explained in an initial section of this report. Summaries and updates are then presented of project products and activities: a pilot community-based class program (an intensive educational and therapeutic environment for emotionally disturbed adolescents); a case management system (in which the…

This digest offers guidelines for group advocacy efforts on behalf of gifted education. Four potential pitfalls are identified: using an adversarial rather than a persuasive approach; assuming that people in administrative and political positions are not too bright or not very knowledgeable--or both; being impatient; and ineffectively coping with…

This workbook provides information and guidelines for planning and operating Parent Advisory Councils (P.A.C.s) provided for under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act Title I. The first part of the workbook, which was prepared for P.A.C. planners in the Phoenix, Arizona, Union High School District, is a month-by-month guide to P.A.C.…

The article describes the National Special Education Alliance, a network of parent-led organizations seeking to speed the delivery of computer technology to the disabled. Discussed are program origins, starting a local center, charter members of the alliance, benefits of Alliance membership, and the Alliance's relationship with Apple computer. (DB)

Preschool parent-teacher associations (PTAs) help parents learn more about their young children through interaction with other parents. Current programs and activities of other preschool PTAs and organizational ideas are listed. (DF)

This article discusses the benefits of support groups and networks for parents of premature and high-risk infants. Options for starting and maintaining groups are discussed, and a resource section lists self-help organizations, training materials, and reference works. (Author/PB)

Describes the development of a parents' support group in Augusta, Georgia which offers parents of hyperactive and Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) children an opportunity to share experiences and explore problem-solving strategies for coping with and managing their children. (Author/BB)

A teacher in a day school for students with hearing impairments recounts development of a parent support group, including special problems and evidence of effectiveness. The article offers guidelines for other schools regarding preparation for meetings, conducting meetings, and possible meeting topics. (DB)

This survey of 11 presidents of professional education associations and parent organizations in Mississippi found that all responded positively to the idea of including gifted education workshops and presentations in future conference programs. Strategies for working with organizations and associations interested in gaining information on the…

This inservice program for principals was designed to assist the development and maintenance of effective Parent Advisory Councils (PACs), as mandated by Title I of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act. The manual first introduces the concept of the principal as a facilitator, outlining the principal's role and responsibilities within a PAC.…

This article, based on the experiences of the Ainsworth (Oregon) Parent Teacher Association, offers a step-by-step guide for parents who wish to bring computers into their children's schools. Ways to build public and school support, do necessary planning and research, evaluate available equipment, and implement the program are suggested. (PP)

In order to help parents and community members participate more effectively and better understand the importance of their involvement in the planning and administration of migrant education programs in Oregon, the English-Spanish booklet suggests general procedures for organizing, leading, and training Parent Advisory Committees (PACs), required…

The guidelines outlined in this pamphlet were developed in cooperation with members of local parent advisory councils and school officials. The guidelines describe the rationale for parental involvement, the specific steps to be taken in organizing parent advisory councils, and the roles and responsibilities of these councils. (CLK)