Download the Personal Advocacy Organizer PDF
[Child’s Name]: A Quick Guide to My Strengths and Support Needs
What People Love and Admire About Me
[Name] is a child who shines when they are [list 2-3 favorite activities, e.g., building with Legos or helping others]. Those who know [Name] best describe them as [insert 3 positive adjectives, e.g., empathetic, persistent, and curious]. They have a remarkable ability to [mention a specific strength, like “memorize facts about space” or “notice when a friend is sad”], and their unique perspective often brings a sense of [joy/creativity/logic] to any environment.
What is Important TO Me
To feel safe and successful, [Name] needs to feel [connected/in control/understood]. It is vital for them to have access to [specific items or routines, e.g., their noise-canceling headphones or a predictable schedule]. They are most motivated by [interests, e.g., praise, quiet time, or dinosaurs] and feel most comfortable when [specific environmental factor, e.g., the room isn’t too crowded or they know what is coming next]. Knowing that their voice is heard is the foundation of their cooperation.
How Best to Support Me (What Works)
When working with [Name], the most effective approach is to [mention a communication style, e.g., use short, direct sentences]. Please provide [specific support, e.g., visual schedules or 5-minute warnings] before transitions. If [Name] becomes overwhelmed, it helps to [mention a de-escalation strategy, e.g., give them space and a quiet corner] rather than [what not to do, e.g., asking too many questions]. They thrive when expectations are clear and when they are given [amount of time] to process information before being asked to respond.
What Doesn’t Work and Health Considerations
It is important to avoid [specific triggers, e.g., sudden loud noises or being rushed]. In a [medical/classroom] setting, [Name] may show stress by [behavior, e.g., becoming very quiet or fidgeting excessively]. Please be aware that [mention any vital health/sensory info, e.g., they have a high pain threshold or a severe peanut allergy]. By avoiding [trigger] and focusing on [positive alternative], we can ensure [Name] remains regulated and ready to engage.