How to lay the groundwork for self-advocacy in your child
Giving children responsibilities enhances their confidence, while role-playing with children can help prepare them for difficult situations.
When children have confidence in themselves, it is easier for them to speak up when they need help. It also assists them in explaining their difficulties to others. However, some children may not have the level of self-awareness to express what they’re struggling with.
The good news is that parents can assist their children in laying the groundwork for self-advocacy. And the sooner you start, the sooner your child will be able to express themselves, ask for what they want, and stand up for themselves.
Here are some actions you can take…
Encourage your child to ask for what they want
When children want or need something, they may not know what to say. However, you may assist children in expanding their vocabulary by teaching them how to ask questions. Assume your child is on a playdate with another child and needs a specific Lego block to finish the house he is building. However, his friend has been clinging to that block and won’t part with it. Children can learn to communicate why they are asking questions. Instead of your child simply asking, “Please give me the block?” your child could ask, “Can I please play with that block because I need it to finish this house I’m building.”
Allow children to do things on their own
When children appear to be struggling with something, it’s tempting to step in and assist them. However, it is necessary to take a step back from time to time so that they can develop their talents. The better they are at something, the more confident they will be in their talents. For example, your child may want assistance with getting dressed even if it is not required. It’s simply easier when you assist. You can teach your child to do things on his or her own while still allowing him or her to seek assistance if necessary. You may add a few minutes to your morning routine, so your youngster doesn’t have to rush to get dressed. You can state that you know your child can get dressed without assistance, but if something comes up that is too difficult, you will assist.
Give your children responsibility
Structures can aid in the development of self-advocacy. When children are given tasks that they can perform, their self-esteem grows. Giving kids their own storage spot at home, for example, teaches them where to put their belongings when they aren’t using them. You can also request that they clean up their room and put their toys away.
Play out challenging encounters
Children must understand what to do if they are teased in the classroom or on the playground. Role-playing difficult circumstances with children can provide them with empowering strategies. Often, books can help children deal with tricky situations. Having the bravery to stand up for oneself and others is a recurrent theme in children’s literature. Read these types of stories with your children to show them what that implies.
Give your child real-world practice opportunities
It’s one thing to practice with family members at home. It’s another thing entirely to discover your voice in public. Encourage children to ask for what they require outside of the home. In restaurants, for example, children can order their own food.
