There are several core areas of knowledge that are essential to providing effective consultation because they provide a foundation for identifying needs and developing appropriate strategies, which, in turn, fosters trust and confidence in the consultants’ abilities. These core areas include a firm understanding of:
Consultants should also be knowledgeable in specific areas that are relevant to populations they will be serving. For example, consultants working in HS/EHS settings should understand how to work with low-income families (Green, Simpson, Everhart, Vale, & Gettman, 2004). Further, it is important for consultants to be well-versed in Head Start’s organizational culture. This includes having a firm grasp of the program’s values, federal and local requirements, and organizational policies/procedures, as well as a clear sense of the roles of each HS/EHS staff member (e.g., Disabilities Services Coordinator, Family Services Coordinator). With this background, consultants can better assist programs in furthering program goals and avoid duplication or fragmentation of services.