Noticing that speaking up for yourself is a skill, and that like all skills it takes practise and grows over time.
Exploring the many different ways a person can let someone know what they need, including talking, writing, drawing, pointing, or using a device.
Thinking about everyday situations where self-advocacy might be useful, like asking for help, saying what you prefer, or asking for more time.
Considering that everyone has different needs and that knowing and sharing yours is something worth being proud of.
Reflecting on what it feels like when someone hears and responds to what you have asked for.
The video explains what self-advocacy means by breaking it into two parts: self, which means you, and advocacy, which means speaking up for something. Together these words mean speaking up for yourself, letting people know what you need or want. The video gives everyday examples of self-advocacy, like asking for help with something tricky, choosing what you would like to do, or letting someone know when you need a break. It explains that self-advocacy looks different for different people and that there are many ways to communicate a need. The video ends by sharing that self-advocacy is something that gets easier the more you practise it.
• What did the video say self-advocacy means?
• Can you think of a time you told someone what you needed or wanted?
• What is one thing that helps you feel comfortable when you need to speak up?
• What ways do you like to let people know what you need?
• Is there something you sometimes need at school or at home that you find hard to ask for?
• What could you say or do to let someone know you need a break?
• How do you feel when someone listens to what you need and helps you?
• What is one small thing you could practise asking for this week?
The questions within this guide are designed to open dialogue and facilitate discussion around the relevant topics. It is up to the user to adapt as needed to best suit the person they are supporting. A neuroaffirming approach was central to the design of these resources and remains essential to their application. This means recognising and respecting the diverse ways people think, communicate, and experience the world, ensuring all conversations are led with curiosity, respect, and without judgement. These resources are a starting point. Trust your knowledge of the person you are supporting to shape the conversation from there.
For access to playback speed, transcripts or closed captions, please click the video title in the top left of the player to access the Youtube source where these controls are provisioned.
We are always looking to grow and improve this resource and would love to hear from you. Whether you have a suggestion for a clip or topic, a question about your subscription, or feedback to share, please do not hesitate to reach out.
Please also see our knowledge base for further information.
