Self-Advocacy in Action: How to Empower Autistic Teens During Autism Acceptance Month

If you’re raising an autistic teen or young adult, you’ve probably seen their strengths—and also how often the world asks them to mask or shrink them. That’s why self-advocacy matters so much, especially during Autism Acceptance Month.

It’s not about pushing your teen to be someone they’re not. It’s about helping them find the tools, confidence, and language to say: This is who I am—and this is what I need to thrive.

Let’s break down what real-life self-advocacy can look like, and how you can help your teen build it step by step.

What Is Self-Advocacy for Autistic Teens?

Self-advocacy means being able to speak up for your needs, preferences, and rights. For autistic teens, it can show up in small but powerful ways:

• Asking for sensory-friendly environments

• Requesting accommodations at school or work

• Expressing boundaries in social situations

• Choosing how to describe their identity (e.g., “autistic,” “neurodivergent,” or another term that fits)

Every autistic teen is different, so self-advocacy will look different, too. The key is helping your teen understand they have a voice—and that it’s worth using.

Start with Everyday Wins

Self-advocacy isn’t a one-time event. It’s a skill that builds over time. Start with everyday situations:

• Can your teen order for themselves at a restaurant?

• Can they tell a teacher they need extra time or a quiet space?

• Can they say, “I need a break,” without feeling bad about it?

These may seem small, but they’re the foundation for bigger moments ahead.

👉 Tip: Use role-play at home to practice different scenarios, from texting a teacher to explaining a sensory need at a friend’s house.

Help Them Find Their Medium

Not every teen is verbal—or wants to speak in front of a group. That’s okay. Self-advocacy can be written, drawn, typed, or signed. One teen might write a blog about accessibility. Another might create a social media post to educate friends. Another might use an AAC device to communicate their preferences.

Lean into their interests. Let their creativity lead.

Language Matters (But It’s Theirs to Choose)

During Autism Acceptance Month, you’ll hear a lot of language around diagnosis and identity. Talk with your teen about how they want to describe themselves. Some prefer “autistic person.” Others lean toward “person with autism.” What matters is that they feel ownership over their story.

Show Them They’re Not Alone

One of the best ways to build confidence is to see other autistic people thriving. Share books, podcasts, or creators who reflect their lived experience. Explore online spaces where autistic teens connect on their own terms.

You can also check out Sojorne’s resources—designed for caregivers and teens navigating neurodivergence together.

Keep Showing Up

Supporting your autistic teen’s self-advocacy isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about listening, learning together, and making space for their voice to grow stronger.

Autism Acceptance Month is a great time to start—or recommit. You’ve got this, and they do too.

What helps your teen speak up for themselves?



We’d love to hear what’s working—or what you’re still figuring out. Drop a comment and connect with other parents and caregivers in the Sojorne community. You’re not in this alone.