Speak Up For Yourself

Book excerpt: Amelia has never been one to be timid. She's confident enough to stand up for others and let people know what she thinks. So why is she having a hard time advocating for herself? When a new seating arrangement lands Amelia next to Billy, a guy who spends all day whining and complaining, Amelia feels trapped. She unloads all her frustrations on her very patient mother. But when Mom starts asking her questions, Amelia quickly realizes that advocating for change - and for herself - requires a lot more than criticizing others and making demands. Given four simple steps to follow, Amelia starts to hone her ability to self-advocate. In addition to keeping the skill steps practical, author and school counselor Bryan Smith includes valuable lessons about the importance of HOW you approach others and why sometimes the answer may still be no. This insightful tale is another standout in the popular Without Limits book series, which offers K through 5th grade readers wonderful lessons about character and self-confidence! Tips are included at the end of the story for parents and educators to help teach children the value of self-advocacy. 31 pgs.