When our children are 18 months old and lacking communication skills it is hard to imagine them being a self advocate. But when we think about self advocate meaning being about communication and knowing what the we want and need then we begin to see a way to help our children to get there. This starts with self awareness.

Toddler Self Awareness

One important change that happens in the toddler years is self awareness. They begin to see themselves in new light as an individual with their own interests and desires. This is the period where they begin experiencing new emotions and notice their thoughts are not the same as their caregivers. Children will start to say I and me ( this isn’t just because they are learning new words) this is toddler self awareness. During this time it is very important to model use of language to communicate feelings, needs, wants, likes, and dislikes. Providing the receptive language for self awareness assists in toddlers moving easily into a self advocate role. Although full self advocacy will not be achieved in the toddler years this is a good time to set the groundwork.

Self Advocate Meaning

Often self advocacy meaning is thought of in work, education, and healthcare but this is really a life skill. The ability to recognize strengths, weaknesses, needs, and wishes then communicate those with others. Teaching young children who they can go to for help and providing the language to communicate needs can boost our toddler’s confidence.

Self Advocacy Skills

The first self advocacy skills a toddler develops is saying no. This is our children speaking up for themselves. It is important to encourage the no’s even when no isn’t an option. For instance when buckling the child into the car seat but they do not want to. Use your words to explain their feelings, desires, and needs. This will not stop the no’s from coming and we don’t want them to.

Also, learning to solve problems independently promotes self advocacy. When your child is trying to carry more and an arm load of toys from one room to another. Watch how they resolve the problem. Children who gain confidence by solving problems independently have the confidence to speak up for themselves.

Self Advocacy Examples

• Saying me or I
• ‘No!’
• requesting help
• Stating emotions or feelings
• Problem solving

Although the journey to self advocacy is a long path. Starting our children off in the early years building self awareness and confidence will build a solid foundation. Providing the language and opportunities ask for help and express desires will continue to solidify their ability to grow the self advocacy muscle.