Family services staff, home visitors, and other program staff hold important information about child, family, and community resources. Whether staff recognize it or not, access to this information can be a form of power. Using power responsibly means sharing information and planning with families, not for them. It means inviting families to inform program directions, policies, and everyday practices.

Below are additional considerations about using our power responsibly:

• We use power responsibly when we are aware of contemporary and historical trauma. We can foster empathy and give families the benefit of the doubt for what they may have experienced.
• We are thoughtful about the racial power dynamic for families who have historically endured discriminatory or racial inequities as they navigated relationships and systems.
• We use power responsibly when we reflect on our own power in relationships with families.
• We recognize the abilities and experiences that parents have, and we trust that they know what their children need.

Activities

Download the worksheet to complete three activities:

1. Reflecting on the Power You Have
2. Reflecting on the Responsible Use of Power
3. Identifying Strategies for Using Your Power Responsibly

Each activity builds on the one before it, so make sure to do them in order:

• If you only have 15 minutes, complete Activity 1.
• If you only have 30 minutes, complete Activity 1 and Activity 2.
• If you have an hour, complete all three activities.

You may choose to spend more or less time on each activity depending on your needs or the needs of your group.

Last Updated: July 25, 2024