Being a self-advocate means asking for what one needs while respecting the needs of others. Self-advocacy is asking for what is needed in a direct, respectful manner. It is an important skill to acquire because self-advocacy helps: (1) Obtain what is needed; (2) People make personal choices; (3) Learn to say no without feeling guilty; and (4) Express disagreement respectfully. A few ideas are offered in this information sheet to help students advocate for themselves. Also discussed are situations in which students might need to stand up for their rights, and make sure their voice is heard. No one is born knowing how to be their own advocate. It is a learned skill, and students can find out more about by watching someone who is a good advocate, and making note of such things as their tone of voice, the way they stand, or if they make eye contact. Also provided are helpful resources for teens and their families to help them learn and practice the skill of self advocacy.