A parent told PACER advocates that she is a private, quiet person. For that reason, speaking up for her child with a disability at school meetings has been very difficult. She tells herself, “I can do this!” before the meetings, and that seems to help.

               Do you have any messages you tell yourself before you attend a school meeting?

Written letters or e-mails can be a very effective form of advocacy. PACER advocates have a saying, “If it’s not in writing, it doesn’t exist.” Written communications may be used for such reasons as making a request, asking for clarification, asking for a decision, saying thank you, or documenting a verbal discussion.             

  How have letters or e-mails helped you communicate more effectively as you advocate for your child?

Advocates always encourage parents who disagree to disagree without being disagreeable. There are things that you can do or say that will help the disagreement be resolved. For example, you can choose your battles (not everything is worth disagreeing about) and you can take responsibility for your part of the disagreement.

               What tips can you share about resolving disagreements without being disagreeable?