PRACTICAL ADVOCACY SKILLS The Basics MARY M CONNEELY B.A., J.D. ADVOCACY IN ACTION Calla, Roundstone County Galway

ADVOCACY STRATEGY Helps you clarify your objective Reminds you to educate yourself on the issue Allows you to consider your opposition Copyright 2013 by MARY M CONNEELY T/A ADVOCACY IN ACTION

ADVOCACY STRATEGIES 4 STEP ADVOCACY STRATEGY 1.Assess your situation 2.Plan your strategy 3.Take action 4.Result Copyright 2013 by MARY M CONNEELY T/A ADVOCACY IN ACTION

SWOT ANALYSIS STRENGTHSWEAKNESSES OPPORTUNITIESTHREATS Copyright 2013 by MARY M CONNEELY T/A ADVOCACY IN ACTION

SMART GOALS Copyright 2013 by MARY M CONNEELY T/A ADVOCACY IN ACTION S PECIFIC M EASURABLE A CHIEVABLE R EALISTIC T IMELY

ADVOCACY AT A MEETING Have an Agenda Prepare Before the Meeting Bring Someone with you Take a Break Send Confirmation Letter Set Date to Follow UP Copyright 2013 by MARY M CONNEELY T/A ADVOCACY IN ACTION

ADVOCACY BY LETTER Send to a Specific Named Person State Problem Clearly Stick to the Facts Keep it Short Keep a Copy Send Registered Mail Set Date to Follow UP Copyright 2013 by MARY M CONNEELY T/A ADVOCACY IN ACTION

ADVOCATING FOR YOUR CHILD You Know Your Child the Best Develop & Maintain a Good Relationship with Your Child’s School, Medical Providers, SENO Try and Put Your Emotions Aside Be Assertive Not Aggressive Treat Others with Respect Copyright 2013 by MARY M CONNEELY T/A ADVOCACY IN ACTION

ADVOCATING FOR YOUR CHILD Make an Advocacy Plan for Your Child You Need to be Proactive Be Realistic Compromise if Necessary Keep Good Records Copyright 2013 by MARY M CONNEELY T/A ADVOCACY IN ACTION

FINAL TIPS Network with Other Parents Critical to Maintain Good Relationship with Your Child’s Educators & Medical Providers Remember You are Your Child’s Best Advocate Copyright 2013 by MARY M CONNEELY T/A ADVOCACY IN ACTION

THANK YOU! Copyright 2013 by MARY M CONNEELY T/A ADVOCACY IN ACTION