<P> The main conference is usually accompanied by two other days that make up the whole conference agenda . This includes one day dedicated to policy, collectively known as Policy Day and, in the last couple of years, Parent Support Provider Day, a day dedicated to parent and peer support (see Certified Parent Support Providers below). </P> <P> National Federation conferences are known to be less technical and formal than other conferences, focusing in on celebrating children, youth, and their families' strengths . Luncheons are often accompanied by local talent to help bring a positive spirit and message to the overall conference event and get people actively engaged for the duration of it . </P> <P> The Certification Commission for Family Support is the independent national certifying body of the National Federation of Families for Children's Mental Health . It was conceived and developed from a workgroup started in the late 2000s . It has since grown to become a major factor in getting peer specialists in each state certified as Parent Support Providers, a designation that allows individuals to practice providing support and services for children, youth, and families . The Certification Commission aims to certify this growing profession so that individuals practicing this career can gain equal, fair, and reputable status . </P> <P> Certified Parent Support Provider is the official name for the certified individuals who practice peer support for families, youth, and children in the various states . This is a professional certification developed by the Certification Commission for Family Support under the direction of Frances Purdy in accordance with ISO17024 guidelines . The core competencies were completed in December 2010, job task analysis in June 2011, and first national exam in April 2012 . More information can be found on the Certification Commission website about CPSPs . </P>

National federation of family for children's mental health