From Dependence to Independence: Guiding Students Toward Self Advocacy

There are so many parenting quotes that ring true: “Parenting-it’s not for the faint of heart”. Or, “Parenting, the hardest job you’ll ever love”. And, “The days are long but the years are short”. I have found all of those to be true. One of my Mom’s favorite parenting quotes is “It’s a parents job to work themselves out of a job”. It’s taken 24 years, but I’ve seen first hand these past few months how much truth there is in that small statement. As my older daughter begins life on her own with her first full time job and apartment, I’ve been thinking about all of the little steps that got us to this big moment. To where she’s doing exactly what she should be doing, spreading her wings and flying the nest.

One of those things that needs to be taught and nurtured to get children to the moment when they do branch out on their own is self advocacy. Teaching them how to stand up for themselves and speak up when needed is so important. It empowers them to meet their own needs by building confidence, communication skills, and the ability to make decisions and solve problems independently. Is it easy? No! Is it worth it? Absolutely!  

As your children make their way through the Intermediate and Middle School divisions, you’ll see where this skill becomes essential. Intermediate students begin branching out, testing the waters while trying to gain independence. In Middle School you’ll see self advocacy really become a big player. And it can be hard! Hard to let go, knowing they could fail. For many years you were your child’s fiercest and number one advocate. Learning to shift that responsibility to your child can be scary, but the amount of pride you’ll feel (and your child will feel) when they take care of something on their own will be worth it! 

One of the many benefits of being at Oakhill means that your child is in a safe space to practice how to self advocate for themselves with the help of the faculty and staff. We’re here to partner with you to teach not only reading, writing and arithmetic, but also these essential life skills. We are so fortunate to have Mrs. Pavilisin to also work with all students to sharpen their skill of self advocacy. 

While I know it seems far away, the day will come when your child is ready to spread their wings. And when that day comes, they will be ready to advocate for themselves and start life in the real world!