Instead of No: Picture-Supported Self-Advocacy Workbook and Help Cards, Grades K to 5
This Instead of No workbook for K 5 gives young students big picture cards and simple words to use when they want to say "no": I need a break, I need help, I need a minute, not yet, another way, and a little.
Why I made this: In my experience, a lot of "no" from little kids is really "this is too hard" or "I am tired." My older students use a teen version of this workbook. I wanted the same idea for younger students, with big pictures, very few words, and a plan for the adults who answer the cards.
What’s included:
• A teacher page and a 3 day plan for teaching the cards
• A "my words" page
• 6 big picture cards and mini ring cards
• 6 practice scenes with picture choices
• A matching page and a "my plan" page
• An "I used my words" tracker
• A note for families
• A page for adults: how to answer each card calmly
• An answer page
How I use it: I teach the cards over three calm days, then put them on a ring at each student’s desk. The adult response page goes to everyone who works with the student, so the cards get the same answer every time.
Skills covered:
• Asking for a break, help, or time
• Asking for a different way or a smaller amount
• Matching feelings to words
• Making a simple plan
Who it is for: K 5 special education, general education, and resource teachers, paras, and counselors. Works for students who are early readers or non readers.
What you download: Instead of No K 5 Self Advocacy Workbook.pdf (15 pages, US Letter, print ready) plus an editable Word version.
How this is different: Instead of No: Student Self Advocacy Workbook for Work Refusal + Break Cards uses teen and job site scripts. This is a new K 5 version written at an early reading level with big picture cards, practice scenes, and a family note.
Part of the Student Refusal Toolkit series.
Made by Jeremy D. Gooch, special education teacher and transition coordinator. Drafting and layout had AI assistance; every page was checked by me.
