As a Local ICC member, you would join other parents, providers of early intervention, and community representatives that work to advise and assist the State, and enhance the Birth to Three experience at the local community level.

The State ICC has parent members appointed by the Governor. Openings occur periodically. This requires a major investment of time, but can be tremendously rewarding and valuable. A commitment to addressing a wide range of issues throughout the Birth to Three System must be evident for recommendation to this position. Council meetings are open to everyone, and anyone may share information or opinions during the public comment period held at each meeting.  For more information, contact Anna Gorski at 860-418-8716.

Members of this committee meet annually to develop outreach strategies to inform families on how to access Birth to Three supports.

Readers and Reviewers of draft information materials:

Help to make sure materials are family- friendly and informative.  Assistance with reviewing materials translated into other languages is greatly appreciated.

Sometimes talking with another parent who has experienced a similar challenge means much more than talking with anyone else. There are several groups throughout CT that are organized to provide this support, and they are always looking for more parents to join in reaching out to others.

As a member, you would be asked to participate in meetings to develop guidelines related to a particular issue. Sharing your views as a family member would help make sure that the guidelines reflect and respect families’ experiences and priorities. Examples of recent task force topics include: PDD/Autism, Natural Environments, Speech and Language Delay, Infant Mental Health, and the Birth to Three Continuous Improvement Plan.

• Advocate for your child with doctors, coordinate a carpool, have an active role in developing your Individualized Family Service Plan.
• Participate in or run a play group or parent group.
• Take an active role in every early intervention visit (How to Get the Most Out of Your Visit).

• One of the most underrated forms of leadership is reaching out and supporting another parent when you are ready:

• Lending a listening ear or sharing your skills and wisdom can mean a lot to a family in need.
• Offering support can help to build another parent's confidence so that they in turn may become a leader.
   
• Knowing what your strengths are is key:

• You may be a great listener.
• You may want to share your family's experience.
• You may enjoy policy making at a higher level.  If so, link yourself with a network that will help you build your skills and voice your opinion. An example of this would be talking about your family story before a group of legislators.
• Knowing the unique perspective you bring to a group can help you to be more effective in your leadership role
   
• Saying no is okay, when you cannot give your time and expertise:
   
• Raising a child with a disability or special need can be a challenging experience and your ability to participate will probably change over time. It is okay to say no when you are not able to give your time. There will be plenty of time when you are ready, even after your child turns three.

• Understand what your role is:

• If you do assume a leadership role, understanding your role is very important. Never try to do it all on your own. It is very easy to burn out.
   
• Connecting to other parents can help prevent burnout
   
• PATH Parent to Parent of CT has a network of experienced parents who have "Been there" and who can offer support to families in need.
• The CT Parent Advocacy Center provides information and support for families of children with disabilities through age 21 and school staff.
• Family Support Network has regional coordinators who can offer support to families in need.