Modeling Skills: Supporting Youth in their Self-Advocacy

There are a variety of circumstances in which youth may choose to share their story. Whether they share their story to advocate for themselves, or on behalf of others in the system, one thing is certain, they will rely on what adults in their lives have modeled for them.

The Professional Development Program (PDP) offers two specific trainings that strengthen and build the tools for adults to model these essential skills for youth. These are Boundaries: Setting Limits and Sharing Safely and Essential Communication Skills for Working with Youth.

Within  Boundaries: Setting Limits and Sharing Safely, the content explores how to set and maintain both physical and emotional boundaries. These include how to maintain boundaries when sharing your story and advocating for yourself. Also covered is how to practice effective self-disclosure. As an adult, it is important to model how and when to disclose your own story. It is essential to be aware of your rationale if you choose to share.

Youth are always watching. Often, we forget about non-verbal communication and the messages we intentionally or unintentionally are sending. In Essential Communication Skills for Working with Youth, skills such as verbal and non-verbal communication are covered. Increasing our self-awareness is essential as we seek to intentionally model healthy communication skills for our youth. These skills can be vital to a youth who is venturing into sharing their story, particularly when presenting at a conference or speak out.

For individuals supporting youth in understanding healthy boundaries and essential communication skills, reach out to the Youth Engagement Specialist (YES) in your region and check out these PDP trainings for more information: 
 

• Boundaries: Setting Limits and Sharing Safely
• Essential Communication Skills for Working with Youth