As parents of kids with ADHD, we know how challenging it can be to fight for what they need, especially in school. The school environment can be overwhelming, leaving them unsure of how to express themselves or get the support they deserve.

But self-advocacy is a superpower that every child with ADHD should possess – it gives them the power to speak up, ask for help, and take charge of their ADHD.

Below, I'm sharing five simple scripts that will give your child the confidence to stand up for themselves. These phrases are like secret weapons, ready to be used whenever your child needs guidance, support or just a moment to catch their breath.

1. "Can you explain that again, please?"

Sometimes, kids with ADHD miss key instructions or details because their mind is processing so many things at once. Asking for a second explanation is an important first step in self-advocacy. This script gives them the confidence to say, “I didn’t quite catch that,” without feeling embarrassed or disruptive.

Why it works: It’s polite, simple, and direct—plus, it encourages your child to take control when they’re unsure.

2. "I need a break to help me focus better."

For kids with ADHD, focus can come and go in waves. They may find it hard to sustain attention during long periods of sitting or concentrating. Teaching them to ask for a short break not only helps reset their focus, but it also prevents frustration and overstimulation.

Why it works: Instead of saying, “I can’t focus,” they’re reframing the situation by offering a solution—a break. This empowers them to advocate for what they need in the moment.

3. "Can I have more time to finish this?"

Rushing through tasks can lead to mistakes and increased stress, especially for kids with ADHD who may struggle with time management. Teaching your child to ask for a little extra time, whether it’s on a school project or a home chore, helps them set reasonable expectations for themselves and others.

Why it works: It lets your child take control of their time while acknowledging their need for accommodations.

4. "I don’t understand this part—can you show me another way?"

Many children with ADHD benefit from seeing things in a different light—whether through visuals, hands-on activities, or verbal instructions. Teaching your child to ask for an alternate explanation or demonstration not only empowers them but also encourages teachers or peers to approach the problem creatively.

Why it works: It promotes problem-solving and shows that your child is engaged in learning, even when the first explanation doesn’t click.

5. "I’m having trouble staying focused—can we break this into smaller steps?"

Breaking tasks into smaller, manageable chunks is a key strategy for kids with ADHD. Teaching your child to ask for smaller steps helps them tackle overwhelming tasks without feeling defeated from the start.

Why it works: It turns a potentially frustrating situation into a manageable one, allowing your child to feel successful at each step rather than defeated by the bigger picture.

Why These Scripts Matter

These phrases may seem simple, but trust me when I tell you that they can make a huge difference for your child. With these tools in their back pocket, they'll feel more confident and able to speak up when they need support. Developing self-advocacy skills takes time and practice, and having ready-made scripts can be a game changer in tricky situations. Think about it- even as adults it can be hard to come up with the right words in the heat of the moment.  By giving your child some scripts and role-playing with them on when to use them- you are essentially giving them a secret weapon that will help navigate those challenging moments. Trust me, it really works! 

The Bottom Line is this...Practice Makes Progress

Teaching self-advocacy is a crucial skill that fosters self-assurance and self-reliance. Using these simple scripts as a starting point, you can empower your child to feel more confident in their learning and effectively communicate their needs. It may require patience and effort, but with your guidance and the right resources, your child will gain the ability to advocate for themselves in any setting - whether it's at school, on the playground, or at home.

And as always- wishing you progress over perfection, one beautifully messy day at a time! 

xo, 

Lindsey

Take It to the Next Level with Our Free Self-Advocacy Cheat Sheet

These five scripts are just the beginning. If you’re ready to help your child build more confidence in asking for what they need, download our FREE Self-Advocacy Cheat Sheet for Kids. It’s filled with simple, child-friendly phrases they can use to ask for help in school, communicate with their teacher, and get the support they need.

[Download your free cheat sheet here!]