This guide to the legislative process provides information on how to work within the legislative process for changes benefiting children and families. The guide is divided into 5 major sections: (1) know the issues and know the state and congressional legislative systems; (2) know how to express an opinion; (3) communications from non-profit groups; (4) know the federal legislative process; and (5) understand authorizations and appropriations. Specifically, the guide provides information on: (1) the power of personal visits, letters, telephone calls, telegrams, and voting; (2) the House of Representatives and the Senate; and (3) budget requests, budget authorizations, review and approval processes, Subcommittee and Committee hearings, floor action, the House and Senate Conference, and appropriations. A glossary of terms is included. (JW)