One question I am asked frequently by a parent or guardian is "I would like to participate in the Civil Air Patrol, but I don't have a lot of time.  Is there something I can do?"  Yes, there is.  If you are a parent, grandparent, or guardian of a cadet, you can join the Civil Air Patrol as a cadet sponsor member. 

The cadet sponsor member (CSM) is a membership category for parents who want to be more involved in their cadet’s unit.
1) CSMs will assist their unit’s Cadet Program, but their involvement is limited to providing adult supervision, serving as an overnight chaperone, or helping with transportation.
2) CSMs will pay annual national membership dues. They are exempt from paying other dues.  An application and a FD-258, FBI Applicant Fingerprint Card, will need to be submitted with the application to NHQ CAP/DP. Once the application is approved, the CSM will receive a specially annotated membership card and a special blazer-style nametag.
3) A CSM must be a parent, grandparent or legal guardian of an active CAP cadet. Their membership terminates when the cadet’s membership terminates, and they will be assigned to the same unit as the cadet. CSMs will complete the senior member Level I and Cadet Protection Program Training programs before associating with cadets. They may drive a corporate vehicle after obtaining proper CAP licensing. They may ride on military or CAP transportation to CAP events in support of their function.
4) CSMs may wear any of the CAP distinctive uniforms if desired (and approved by the unit commander). However, CSMs will not wear the Air Force style uniform. CSMs will not earn CAP grade, awards, ribbons, or decorations.

5) CSMs may not act as crewmembers of CAP or privately owned aircraft in support of CAP events or missions.
6) Their membership stays in effect until their cadet leaves the CAP program for any reason.
7) Transfer to active Membership. Cadet sponsor members may transfer to active membership status (at no additional cost for the remaining membership year).

Here is something to consider if you are still undecided about joining as a cadet sponsor or a senior member.  The primary consideration would probably be on whether you wish to participate personally in CAP activities on your own or to act as a supporter for your cadet's activities. Cadet Sponsor Members (CSMs) play a very important support role for cadet activities. Senior members would have a CAP job, which may or may not be related to cadet activities. Some activities such as search and rescue would include opportunities for both cadets and seniors to participate.  Also, you might consider starting out as a CSM and then transfer to senior membership as your cadet continues in the program.