Self-advocacy in kids with special needs is a skill parents need to foster. But we often overlook doing so for several reasons. We’re in the habit of advocating for them. Our identity is wrapped up in our advocacy efforts and it’s hard to release that bit of ourselves. We’re worried they won’t be able to advocate effectively on their own.

Self-Advocacy: How to Teach It to Kids

An article at Chicago Parent by Liz DeCarlo addresses the issue head on. She interviewed Leanne Roth, director of employment and advocacy for SouthStar who said, “It gives them the power to have some control over their lives, with support and to the best of their ability….Everyone involved has grown more independent and that’s because of what we do in self-advocacy.”

Self-Advocacy: 5 Tips to Foster It In Children with Special Needs

Roth offers these 5 tips to foster self-advocacy in kids with special needs:

1. Listen to your kids when they tell you what they want to do.
2. Ask why your child wants to do what he or she wants to do.
3. Give them responsibility. Ask questions like “How can I help you” and “What are you doing about this?” instead of automatically taking over and doing things for them.
4. Start small. Gradually release responsibility to them instead of all at once.
5. Be prepared for bumps. Realize that everything won’t work perfectly the first time. Be ready to try it again.

To read the entire article which provides a lot of practical examples and advice, go to Teaching Kids with Special Needs to Self-Advocate.

How Do You Foster Self-Advocacy in Your Kids?

Are you teaching your child to self-advocate? Do you have more tips than those listed above? Leave a comment to share your good ideas with the rest of us.

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