Sensory Communication & Self-Advocacy
📋 What it is
Self-advocacy is politely telling others what you need — like "this room is too loud for me" — and asking for a small change.
🗣️ Coach says
Self-advocacy means speaking up for what YOU need, kindly and clearly. If a space is too loud, you can say so and ask for a small change — headphones, a quieter corner, a short break. It's not complaining; it's giving people the information they need to help. Knowing your needs and naming them is a real skill.
🧠 Memory hook
Self-advocacy = kindly telling people what you need + asking for a small change. Not complaining — informing.
😂 Giggle
Why did the volume slider feel important?
Because everything revolved around it!
😲 Whoa!
Most people are glad to help when you tell them what you need — but they can't read your mind, so saying it clearly is what makes the help possible.
✅ Quick check: What is "self-advocacy" when it comes to your sensory needs?
Say your answer out loud first — then reveal.
Politely and clearly telling others what you need (e.g. "it's too loud for me") and asking for a reasonable change.
Self-advocacy is communicating your needs so others can help; it isn't complaining.
🧪 Try it! (2 minutes)
Practise one sentence: "This is a bit loud for me — could I use headphones / step out for a minute?"