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Today, I'm sitting at a coffee shop and using it as my personal office, as I often do. While looking around, I notice so many people here working remotely. As I observe, I wonder if these individuals are being treated fairly in their jobs—are they receiving the appreciation they deserve? Do they recognize their own worth? My mind begins to ponder these questions as I reflect on my own current job situation.

It is easy for us to go through life without truly understanding our worth and whether we are being adequately appreciated. Personally, I have felt a lack of recognition for overworking and taking on additional responsibilities, and I can't help but think about how parents might experience similar feelings. This leads me to consider the power of knowing how to advocate for ourselves and how the foundation for learning this skill starts at a young age. But before we continue this conversation, go support the sponsor we love today, here’s a quick ad for them.

What is advocating? According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, it is “one who pleads the cause of another.” As I reflect on this concept, I consider how crucial the ability to stand up for myself and others was during my upbringing. Let’s face it, as kids, bullying and teasing often run rampant.

I recall the nervous feeling in my stomach when I attempted to defend my friend from another classmate in 5th grade. She was being made fun of for the brand of shoes she was wearing, and I immediately knew that this was wrong. Have any of you experienced that feeling of “this doesn’t feel right”? I often remember this pit in my stomach, and now that I am a little older, I recognize that as advocating.

I learned how to advocate from my parents; they taught me how to stand up and speak up against injustice. Now, let’s delve into how we can teach our kids to stand up for themselves and others in healthy ways.

Have a conversation: Engaging in a simple conversation with your child about the significance of advocating and its impact can motivate them to embrace this skill. I understand that, as a kid, advocating may seem daunting, but it is an essential life skill. Can you recall a moment from your own youth when being an advocate would have made a positive difference in your life? Sharing such experiences can further emphasize the value of advocacy in shaping one's journey.

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