This handbook focuses on steps and tasks related to establishing mutual support groups for parents in a school setting. A sequential approach is described that involves: working within the school to get started; recruiting members; training parents how to run their own meetings; and offering off-site consultation as requested. The first section presents an overview of school-based mutual support groups (MSGs), describing what the MSGs are, the benefits of MSGs, and reasons for introducing MSGs into the schools. The next section describes how to start a MSG, including qualities of a good group starter, and selecting a time and place. Methods of member recruitment are discussed next. Issues involved in parent training are discussed in the following section. Preparation, procedure, and presentation guidelines are given for the first six meetings. The group starters' contact with the group after the sixth meeting, which is limited to consultation at the members' request, is discussed. It is concluded that a MSG will not be the answer for every parent, but that one should not underestimate the impact of the group. These exhibits are included: (1) flyers in English and Spanish announcing MSGs for parents; (2) recruitment flyer in Spanish and English; (3) cover letter to teachers accompanying flyers; (4) "guidelines" handout for distribution to members in English and Spanish; (5) meeting format handout for distribution to members in English and Spanish; and (6) advice handout for distribution to members. (ABL)