The Self-Advocacy Plan

Learning how to ask for help is a skill, and one that uniquely wired children should practice with confidence.

The Self-Advocacy Plan is a guided resource designed to help children better understand how they learn, identify what supports them best, and communicate their needs clearly and respectfully (especially in school settings).

Rather than teaching children what to say by memorization, this plan focuses on helping them understand the why behind self-advocacy and build confidence with initiating conversations with teachers and other adults. These skills support independence, confidence, and long-term success both in and out of the classroom.

What’s included

• A child-friendly explanation of what self-advocacy is and why it matters
• Tips to help children prepare for conversations with teachers
• Guidance on using their own words instead of scripted responses
• Examples of how to talk about learning needs in a positive, solution-focused way
• Reassurance for common worries (nerves, follow-ups, sharing only what feels comfortable)
• A fill-in Talking to Teachers script to practice and personalize

Who this is for

This resource is ideal for families who want to:

• help their child speak up with confidence
• reduce anxiety around asking for help at school
• shift advocacy skills from parent-led to child-led
• support independence without pushing too fast

The Self-Advocacy Plan can be used alongside a 504 Plan or IEP, but it is equally helpful for children who simply need language and confidence to explain what helps them learn best.

This resource is part of the Educating the Uniquely Wired Child series and can be used as a standalone tool or alongside the full workbook.

Self-advocacy isn’t about asking for “special treatment.” It is about understanding yourself and learning how to ask for what you need to succeed.