Family-as-Host Model: Building Stronger Connections and Engagement with Families & Communities

Maryland Center for Developmental Disabilities

When people feel understood, respected, and valued, they are more likely to engage fully in programs and services. The Family as Host (FAH) model helps professionals work more effectively with families and communities by using practical, respectful, and culturally responsive strategies.

By learning and applying the FAH approach, professionals can:

Build stronger, trusting relationships with families
Improve communication and understanding
Create meaningful opportunities for families to be part of decisions, learning, and growth

This training is for anyone who works with families, including those from different cultural backgrounds, languages, or life experiences.

What You Will Learn

By the end of the training, you will be able to:

Recognize what helps – and what gets in the way – when engaging with families.
Use strategies that make services accessible and more welcoming for all.
Engage with families early and throughout the service provision process, using humility and reflection to support positive outcomes.
Apply the Family as Host model to strengthen engagement practices and build deeper connections and partnership with families and communities.

Who Should Attend

Teachers and school staff
Social workers and counselors
Disability service providers
Healthcare and community service professionals
Researchers and program staff
Anyone working closely with families and communities

Training Options

Half-Day or Full-Day Workshop

Interactive learning with case examples, skill practice, and group discussion
Available in-person or virtually

Extended 12–15 Hour Training

Spread over several weeks to fit your schedule
Combines lessons, role-play scenarios, and group discussions
Includes pre-training, post-training, and 3-month follow-up surveys to track your progress

Ready to get started?

Request This Training

For questions, email Training.MCDD@KennedyKrieger.org

Unlock Family Engagement in Service and Educational Programs with Family-as-Host Approach

Watch the below video on how the Family-as-Host (FAH) and Family Ambassador Resource (FAR) program is making a difference in ways families and providers engage in educational and service programs. The FAH and FAR project is supported by a Family Engagement Grant from the Maryland State Department of Education's (MSDE) Division of Early Intervention and Special Education Services.

If you are short on time or want to explore the topics that interest you the most, use the links below to jump directly to each section and theme of the video. Each link takes you to a specific part of the full video.

Jump to a specific theme on the video: