Empowering Your Child: Teaching Self-Advocacy Skills in School

Helping your child develop self-advocacy skills in the school setting is one of the most valuable ways to support their education and development.

Self-advocacy gives special education students (and all students) the confidence to express their needs, ask for help, and engage actively in their learning experience. By teaching these skills early, children gain the ability to take charge of their education and manage school environments more independently.

Why Self-Advocacy Matters in School

Self-advocacy helps students communicate their strengths and challenges directly with teachers and staff.

Whether it’s asking for clarification on an assignment, requesting extra time on tests, or explaining the need for specific accommodations, self-advocacy empowers students to take ownership of their learning. Developing this ability prepares children to overcome obstacles, build resilience, and strengthen problem-solving skills throughout their education.

For students with disabilities or learning differences, self-advocacy is particularly important. While parents and educators play key roles, encouraging students to express their needs creates greater independence and engagement in the classroom.

Building the Foundation at Home for School Advocacy

The path to self-advocacy in school starts at home.

Parents can create opportunities for their child to express their opinions and make decisions that relate to school life. Encourage your child to talk about what they find challenging and what support they feel would help. By involving them in discussions about their education, such as preparing for parent-teacher conferences or IEP meetings, they begin to understand the importance of speaking up.

Modeling advocacy at home also plays a significant role. Show your child how to ask questions and request clarification respectfully. When they see you communicate effectively with teachers or school staff, they are more likely to adopt those skills.

Encouraging Self-Awareness in School

A key part of self-advocacy is knowing one’s strengths and limitations.

Help your child identify what strategies work best for them in the classroom. If your child has an IEP or 504 Plan, involve them in age-appropriate conversations about the accommodations they receive. Encourage them to attend IEP meetings and practice expressing how certain supports help them succeed.

For younger children, use simple language to explain that everyone learns differently and that asking for help is a positive step. As children grow older, encourage them to engage directly with their teachers to address questions or concerns.

Practicing Self-Advocacy in the Classroom

Work with teachers to provide opportunities for your child to practice self-advocacy at school.

Encourage your child to ask for assistance when needed, explain when they don’t understand something, and take initiative in managing their workload. Role-playing school scenarios at home can help your child feel more confident approaching teachers or speaking up in class.

By reinforcing self-advocacy skills in the school environment, you are empowering your child to manage their education with confidence. These skills not only enhance their academic experience but also lay the foundation for long-term success in life.

About Education Empowerment Partners

Education Empowerment Partners was founded by Kate Lakowski, a nationally certified school psychologist who is uniquely qualified to help you with your child’s needs. Through a collaborative approach and data-based decision making, Kate will work with your child’s educational team to develop a plan that will help lead to successful outcomes for your child’s educational career and future goals.

For more information, visit educationempowermentpartners.com.