When preparing to meet with families, keep the following in mind and use this checklist to support you through the meeting process.
MEETING PREPARATION:
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When scheduling the meetings, know the family preferences and select location and time to meet based on their preferences.
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Set up a supportive and safe meeting environment, recognizing that families may bring small children in two-be prepared and have toys or coloring books available.
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Remove obstacles from between you and the family—create an open and inclusive environment where all appear equal.
DURING THE MEETING:
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Ask the parents about their needs and attempt to understand family dynamics.
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Ask if the family would like to be connected to other family resources or peers who might have had similar experiences.
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Be prepared to support meeting the needs of the family which may require information and referral—readiness for planning for the youth often means helping the family to be prepared as well.
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Get to know the family and to understand the degree to which they want to be involved in planning, goal setting and service delivery.
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Explore the vastness of what they know about their youth and how it might help you in creating a pathway to employment.
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Make sure that all action plans developed outlined meaningful and appropriate roles for the youth and their family.
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Develop a communication plan with the family. How often you will talk and what vehicle they prefer for communicating.
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Engage in active listening, practice mindfulness and seek clarification when needed.