Self-Advocacy: The Power to Get What You Need
Self-Advocacy is defined as, "a set of skills that enables people with disabilities to effectively communicate their needs to others and get those needs met." This can range from telling others what you like or what you are interested in doing, to telling your boss the work accommodations you need to do your job successfully.
Self-Advocacy Across the Lifespan
Self-Advocacy in Middle School
Middle school can be a challenging time for students with ASD. However, supporting students' self-advocacy can actually help out with some of the tough issues. By middle school, many students with ASD can attend at least part of their own IEP meeting. This allows the student to feel more a part of the special education process and understand their accommodations and educational goals. Having input into the decision-making process involved in creating their educational plan encourages student "buy-in" into addressing their goals and using their accommodations. Middle school students with ASD should also be supported to participate in the development of their BIP if they have one. At a minimum they could choose the reinforcement to be used and help identify replacement behaviors. Another important part of self-advocacy is understanding one's disability. Middle school students are generally ready to participate in discussions about their disability with trusted adults. There are also several good books available on this topic written by young adults with ASD.
Book of the Week: Model Me Confidence and Bullying Prevention [videorecording (DVD)]. Model Me Kids, 2009. Description: Watch as children model skills to prevent bullying and build self-esteem. This includes self-advocacy. For children ages 9-17.
This DVD is in the SESA Library. You may search the library catalog via the SESA website, or contact Anne directly by email at [email protected] or by phone at 907-334-1301.