Be Your Own Advocate Compiled by Mrs. D. Wittmann
SELF-ADVOCACY Self-Advocacy is learning how to speak up for yourself, making your own decisions about your own life, learning how to get information so that you can understand things that are of interest to you, finding out who will support you in your journey, knowing your rights and responsibilities, problem solving, listening and learning, reaching out to others when you need help and friendship, and learning about self-determination.
Identify your Strengths and Challenges EXAMPLE Strengths I am good at expressing myself verbally. I am very artistic. I have good computer skills. Challenges I have a hard time with organization and planning bigger assignments. I cannot screen out sounds and movements around me, like someone moving or a clock ticking. I sometimes have a short fuse, and I often react impulsively. I have a difficult time taking notes. I find it difficult to remember what I heard in class.
Create a Checklist : What Helps Me Learn EXAMPLE Chunk long-term assignments. I need these “chunks” on a daily and weekly basis. Illustrate information with: charts, timelines and other visuals. Give me a reading guide before I start. Let me demonstrate my knowledge in ways that work best for me.
Asking for Help in an Appropriate Way Sulking and whining is not advocating for yourself Approach the right person Call them by name Look at them directly Speak in an assured but polite tone of voice Give the conversation your full attention Body language that says you are pleasant and confident Thank them