The basic message will stay the same. The more times you can repeat that, the more likely people are going to remember it.

KISS (Keep It Short and Simple!) Tell the legislator one thing at a time. You will have other times to talk to him or her about different things you are worried about.

Start off on a good note. Thank the legislator for meeting or talking with you. In addition, thank them for any past support or efforts on behalf of your issue(s). Mentioning points in common will remind him or her of how you can work together.

Your voice counts! Very few people tell legislators what they are worried about. You must call for all the other children who are not heard.

Your call will make a difference. Advocacy is not about politics.

Advocacy is about you expressing your concerns for your children. Children can not always speak for themselves.

Your voice represents many other people that do not speak up. You must tell your legislator what you see or need for your community. They may not hear it from anyone else.

You know a lot about kids. Your legislator or other community leader may not be a parent. Your experience as a mother or father is important to them when they make decisions at the Capitol.

Advocacy does not take more than a couple of minutes, once a month. Call or write your legislator - see the contact page for contact information.

You are a citizen. Your voice counts just as much as your neighbor.

Advocacy does change policy. There are many examples of advocates who make a difference for children.

Follow up any meeting or phone call with a thank you letter. Make sure to end the communication as positive as you start it.