Do you ever feel like "no one understands," or the feeling of not being seen or heard consumes you at home and/or at school!? If so, this episode is for you and you are not alone! Let me be clear...we are not giving excuses...we are giving EXPLAINATIONS to explore!!

This is episode 2 of our self-advocacy series! So go back and listen to last weeks episode for the intro to get the most out of the series! In this episode, we dive deeper into how to be your best self-advocate at home and at school with both words and actions. Now, please know that self-advocacy needs to come with an equal about of respect and kindness in your tone and attitude. Those you love are learning right alongside you! As you explain and explore what works best, do so with love and kindness!

Home is often our safe space to express, however, others ofter don't see the internal struggle, they only see the behavior!

1. Practice listening to your mind a body!
2. Practice using your words to express your need, " I am having a hard time!" "My brain needs a break, I am going to go outside!" "I need a snack and movement before I start my homework to refuel my mind!"
3. If words are hard, practice with actions: Zip lips and move feet away space where big feelings are triggered. Play outside or find calm doing something you love in your room or other safe space to feel your feelings!

School can be tricky, but SUPER important to find your voice as so often your behavior or challenges are misunderstood!

1. Identify which tools could be helpful in that classroom/school environment.
2. Practice what to say, when to say, and how to say what you need to succeed at home so that you feel more comfortable doing it at school!
3. Give a voice to your needs in that school environment: "I am having a hard time focusing, I NEED to move my body so I can come back and find focus again."

Self-advocacy is a skill that can be tricky for kids and adults! But if we practice at a younger age and more often, it will become easier and more of a habit!

Don't forget to check out our April sponsor, Story Mii @ http://www.miiapps.com and plug in the code: ADHD10 to enjoy one month free of creating all of the stories your heart desires!! This app will surely ignite your love for reading and bring to life your amazing imagination!! I would love to hear how you and your kiddos like it!!

You can also connect with me through www.katelynmabry.com . Oh and if you're interested in a signed copy of my book for you or your child's classroom, reach out, because I have some on hand that I would love to sign and send to you! Have a beautiful day! Love you all!

Intro music credit:

Music from #uppbeat (free for creators)

http://uppbeat.io/t/andrey-rossi/seize-the-day

License code:

BYYN10YF2HHNY3YO