What is a Family Navigator?

A Family Navigator is:

• A free resource
• A parent or primary caregiver who is or has supported a child with disabilities or special health care needs
• Trained to support other families in accessing supports and services for their child and family
• Knowledgeable about local and state resources

"This support is what I really needed because I felt lost."

"The information given helped me feel more confident about advocating for my child."

How can a connection with a Family Navigator help your family?

A Family Navigator can provide:

• One to one emotional support
• Information, referral and linkages to services for your child
• Enhanced support and tools to help you plan for service meetings (i.e., IFSP, IEP, ISP)
• Culturally sensitive and unbiased information so you can make the best choice for your child and family
• Workshops and educational opportunities

Family Navigators provide support and information, and discuss options with families so they can make the best choices for their children. They do not provide legal advice or counseling or advise families on decisions pertaining to their children.

"It makes me feel so good that there are wonderful people out there like you that are so willing and eager to help."

Family Navigators work in collaboration with local agencies and many participate on planning and advisory committees to provide a family perspective on policies and programs for all people with disabilities.