Self-advocacy can be hard for students with learning disabilities who have trouble with identifying, organizing, and problem-solving. Learning difficulties exacerbate the already arduous task of identifying and accessing needed support. At Winston Prep, teachers help students improve self-advocacy skills by teaching them what self-advocacy means. They also discuss how it supports growth and progress.

Self-advocacy at Winston Prep means students can ask for help in and out of class to represent themselves effectively. The development of this skill helps our students become independent learners. Further, it entails seeking help from an appropriate party when expectations, directions, or content are unclear.

Encouraging students to ask for help when they are confused helps them become more independent learners. It gives them the skills they need to take charge of their own learning. This can lead to greater success in their academic pursuits.

Learning to self-advocate is an act of self-discovery and self-reflection. This helps students understand themselves better as learners and individuals in middle school, high school, and beyond.

The dedicated educators and administrators at Winston Preparatory School guide students in developing self-awareness and self-expression to navigate life confidently.

Our students learn to ask for help and find support through modeling, role-playing, and mindful practice. For some students, intentional moments of pause can be helpful. This helps students identify their challenges, whether they are social or academic. It also helps them consider ways they might self-advocate to achieve a more positive outcome.

Winston Prep educators help each student make connections and see the broader perspective. Doing this helps guide them to identify their next steps. This work might involve helping students find the right language to talk to a teacher, classmate, or friend. Other effective strategies for advocacy include using checklists, visuals, and prompts to think about their communication.

We think giving middle and high school students many chances to build their support networks is important. This helps them become more confident and independent learners.

Self-advocacy is important in many situations in life, such as:

As parents (and teachers) we instinctively want to swoop in whenever we notice that our children need help. As parents, guiding children through self-advocacy is tough but important.

It helps them become more independent and able to communicate their needs effectively in the future. When nurturing Self-Advocacy skills at home, parents can provide children with ample opportunities to advocate for their needs.

Find the balance between guiding and still leaving space for independence and growth. This may require continuous assessment of where your child is in the process of building self-advocacy skills.

When possible, try encouraging your child to explore making choices on their own at home. Frequently reflect on their successes, challenges, and goals.

Talk with your child openly about ways you self-advocate in your own life. This helps them learn about your experiences and the moments that you, yourself, have found to be challenging.

Struggling to find a supportive environment that meets your child's learning needs? Winston Preparatory School has what you are looking for. Learn more about our eight campuses by clicking here.