An Effective Strategy for Teaching Children to Self-Advocate

With large class sizes it can be difficult for teachers to keep up with each child’s various needs within the classroom. Sometimes this leaves parents feeling like their child is not getting their unique needs met. Often parents take the approach of speaking to their child’s teacher to try and advocate for them. Sometimes this approach works and sometimes it does not. Since parents are not with their children in the classroom setting, it is important to teach children how to self-advocate and share with teachers/childcare providers what they need to thrive in their learning and social environments. 

When teachers/childcare providers are familiar with a child’s strengths and challenges, it’s easier for them to help your child succeed. Using a 3×3 card is a quick way to help teachers/childcare providers get to know a child. This handy card introduces teachers to three of your child’s strengths and challenges — along with three strategies that work for your child. 

For example: 

Simply print or create a card, fill it out, and share it with your child’s teachers and other school staff who’d benefit from it. You and your child can even fill out the card together.