ABSTRACT
The message of this chapter is simple: if we are truly to empower parents then we, as professionals representing a variety of disciplines, must be prepared to 'let go'. The multiplicity of strategies proposed by professionals during the 'parenting years' necessitates constant decision-making and conflict resolution on the part of the parents. An over-reliance on professional input can disempower parents, cause feelings of inadequacy, and encourage the tendency to problem-solve only when supported by professionals.
