Empowering high school students through self advocacy
In the dynamic landscape of education, preparing students for life after high school goes beyond traditional academics. One crucial aspect, often overlooked, is equipping students with the essential skill of self-advocacy. Led by Fiona Wines, head of senior school and deputy principal, this blog delves into the essence of self-advocacy for high school students, why it's important, and how parents and educators can support students in learning to advocate for themselves.
The foundation of self advocacy
Developing independence and confidence
At the core of self-advocacy lies the ability to speak up for oneself and others. Fiona Wines underscores its importance as a lifelong skill that helps students thrive in various facets of life. The outcome is the development of independent and self-confident adults who are not only aware of their needs but can also make informed decisions, a crucial skill when navigating life after school.
As Fiona emphasises, teaching self-advocacy includes instilling the courage to ask for help when needed. While parents naturally want to intervene and advocate for their children, it is crucial to let children navigate challenges with guidance, allowing the organic growth of these essential skills.
Making informed decisions
To enable effective self-advocacy, students must possess the skills of critical thinking and decision-making. Fiona highlights these skills as foundational, intertwined with communication, self-awareness, and empathy. By explicitly teaching these skills, schools play a pivotal role in preparing high school students for inclusive participation in their communities, both during their school years and in adulthood.`
Teaching self advocacy skills
The role of parents and educators
Parents and educators play a crucial role in nurturing self-advocacy in high school students. Striking a balance between providing support and encouraging independence is key. Fiona suggests talking through challenging situations with students, encouraging them to reflect on their needs, and providing opportunities for students to practice self-advocacy skills, even during IEP meetings.
Encouraging active communication and role-playing conversations can be effective strategies. These activities help students clarify their thoughts and provide a safe space for them to develop and practice their self-advocacy skills. Additionally, teachers in high school may act as mentors, fostering a growth mindset and encouraging a lifelong commitment to self-advocacy.
Navigating challenging situations
Self-advocacy is not an innate skill but is developed over time with practice. Fiona underscores the importance of providing opportunities for high school students to practice these skills in a safe and supported environment. Role-playing conversations and discussing thoughts are practical ways to navigate challenges, whether in school or in the workplace.
Underpinning skills of self advocacy
Communication skills
Effective communication is a cornerstone of self-advocacy. Fiona highlights the significance of active listening and expressing opinions clearly. These skills not only help students articulate their thoughts but also foster empathy by recognising and respecting others' perspectives, a crucial aspect when advocating for oneself or disclosing one's learning differences.
Critical thinking and decision-making
Developing informed opinions is essential for effective self-advocacy. High school students must be encouraged to be well-informed and self-aware in their everyday interactions which involves evaluating information critically and formulating their own views and opinions.
Self-awareness and empathy
Self-advocacy goes hand in hand with self-awareness and empathy. Understanding one's own needs and perspectives is as crucial as recognising and respecting others. Active listening becomes a tool for building empathy, allowing high school students to ask questions and enhance their understanding of different viewpoints.
Important points to share with students
Ownership of thoughts and opinions
Empowering high school students with the knowledge that they have the right to express their thoughts and opinions is foundational for self-determination and independence, both during their school time and in adulthood.
Developing informed opinions
Encouraging high school students to be well-informed and self-aware enables them to evaluate information critically and formulate their own views and opinions, a skill that proves invaluable in adulthood.
Active listening and empathy
Recognising the importance of active listening, respecting others' viewpoints, and asking questions to enhance understanding are crucial elements in building empathy, essential in an inclusive and supportive community.
Articulating clear views
Having a clear understanding of information or situations is imperative for high school students to articulate and effectively communicate their needs and opinions, making it easier for others to understand and support them.
Ultimately, self-advocacy is not just a skill; it's a mindset that empowers students to navigate the complexities of school and life. The skills developed through self-advocacy have long-term benefits, shaping individuals who are not only academically adept but also socially and emotionally resilient. By fostering self-advocacy, schools, parents, and educators contribute to the holistic development of students, preparing them for success in an ever-changing world. It's time to teach self-advocacy skills not only as an important skill during the school years but as a lifelong commitment that allows students to communicate their needs, assertively navigate challenges, and actively participate in an inclusive and supportive community.