Self-Advocacy Toolkit
For neurodivergent teenagers — scripts, worksheets, and strategies to speak up for your needs and know your rights.
Self-advocacy means knowing your needs and being able to communicate them to the people around you. It is a skill — not something you are born knowing how to do. These scripts and tools are starting points you can adapt for your own voice.
Scripts for Common Situations
Asking a teacher for extra time or support
Script
"Excuse me, [teacher's name]. I have [condition/learning difference] and sometimes I process things a bit differently. I was wondering if I could have a few extra minutes to finish this task / if I could sit somewhere quieter / if you could repeat the instructions in writing? It would really help me do my best work."
Tips
- Ask privately — before class or during a break — not in front of other learners
- Be specific about what you need, not just that you are struggling
- If you have a formal accommodation (exam concession, IIIP), mention it
Telling a doctor or healthcare professional about your needs
Script
"I have [condition] and I want to make sure I understand everything properly today. Could you please: explain things slowly, write down the important points, and check that I have understood before I leave? I might ask you to repeat things — that is how I learn best."
Tips
- Write down your questions before the appointment — it is easy to forget when anxious
- You are allowed to bring a parent or trusted person for support
- You have the right to ask for a same-gender healthcare provider if that matters to you
Explaining your condition to a new friend or peer
Script
"I have [condition]. What that means for me is [brief, specific explanation — e.g. 'I can find noisy places really overwhelming' or 'I sometimes process things a bit differently from other people']. It doesn't stop me from [positive statement]. If I ever seem [specific behaviour], it is just [explanation] and it helps if you [specific, simple request]."
Tips
- You decide what to share, with whom, and when — you never have to disclose
- Short, matter-of-fact explanations work better than long ones
- Focus on what is helpful for the other person to know, not on the clinical details
Asking for a break or sensory accommodation in a public space
Script
"Excuse me — I have a sensory processing difference and I am getting a bit overwhelmed right now. Is there a quieter place I could sit for a few minutes? / Could you please lower the music slightly? / I need [specific thing] to function well — would that be okay?"
Tips
- You do not need to explain your full diagnosis to anyone
- Framing it as a medical need (which it is) usually gets a better response than just asking
- If your request is refused, stay calm and try to find a different solution
Pushing back on unfair treatment at school
Script
"I understand what you are saying, and I want to engage with this fairly. I am concerned that [specific issue — e.g. 'I was marked down for presentation but my IIIP says I can submit in a different format']. Could we please look at my accommodation plan together? I want to find a solution that works for both of us."
Tips
- Know your rights — have a printed copy of your IIIP or accommodation letter
- Stay calm even when frustrated — being seen as reasonable gets better outcomes
- If the issue is not resolved, involve your parent/caregiver and escalate to the HOD
Know Your Rights
The right to a SIAS assessment
Every learner with a support need is entitled to a free Screening, Identification, Assessment and Support (SIAS) assessment through the school. You do not need to pay for it.
The right to an IIIP
Every learner with identified support needs must have an Individual Inclusion and Intervention Plan (IIIP). This is a legal document. Ask for yours if you don't have one.
DBE exam concessions
Learners with documented learning differences can apply for extra time, a reader, a scribe, or other concessions in DBE exams. Applications must be made well before Grade 12.
The right to inclusive education
The South African Schools Act requires that all learners, including those with disabilities or differences, have the right to attend their nearest school and receive appropriate support.
Privacy of your diagnosis
You are not required to share your diagnosis with anyone other than those who need to know for support purposes. Schools and healthcare providers are bound by confidentiality.
Printable Worksheets
My Needs Statement
A one-page document you can hand to teachers, healthcare workers, or new people in your life.
My name is ___ and I am [age] years old.
I have [condition/difference]. What this means for me is:
Things that help me:
Things that make things harder for me:
If I am struggling, the best thing you can do is:
Please do NOT:
I am good at / proud of:
My Rights Reminder Card
Print this and keep it with you.
✓ I have the right to ask for reasonable accommodations at school.
✓ I have the right to understand information at my doctor's appointment.
✓ I have the right to say "I need a minute" or "I need a break."
✓ I have the right to be treated with respect, regardless of my diagnosis.
✓ I have the right to not disclose my condition unless I choose to.
✓ I have the right to a school environment where I can learn effectively.
✓ I have the right to be included and not separated without good reason.
Advocacy Preparation Sheet
Fill this in before a difficult meeting or conversation.
The situation I need to address:
What I specifically need to happen:
The evidence or documentation I have:
My main concern / what I am worried about:
How I will stay calm if things get difficult:
Who I want with me for support:
The outcome I am hoping for:
Further support
If you are struggling to advocate for yourself at school, a psychologist or educational therapist can work with you on assertiveness and self-advocacy skills in a safe space. Find a psychologist →