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Self-Advocacy Strategies

Children with learning disabilities are more likely to succeed when they learn to speak up for themselves. When a child tells others what he needs, he is more likely to learn and feel good about himself. For example, a child with a learning disability may ask for more time to complete an activity or to have information explained in a different way. A young child may learn to state her preferences for an activity or ask for assistance in getting what she wants.

Promote your child's self-advocacy:

• Encourage your child's independence in a variety of situations.
• Allow your child to answer questions for herself.
• Include your child in meetings held about her education, if appropriate.
• Help your child practice making requests or asking for information.
• Arrange opportunities for your child to meet other children or adults who have learned to self-advocate.
• Read a personal story of self-advocacy in the Journey Toward Independence.
• You can also learn more about promoting your child's self-determination at Growing Up Happy and Independent.

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