When you’re exhausted, overwhelmed, or unsure what to say, a template can help you take action without starting from scratch. Request templates give you a structure to follow—one that’s already been tested, refined, and adapted to real-world advocacy.
In a school system where support often hinges on precise wording and procedural compliance, using a format that includes all the key elements can mean the difference between being heard and being ignored. Templates can remind you to state your child’s needs clearly, cite relevant documents, set timelines, and request confirmation. They can also give you the confidence to press ‘send’—knowing you’ve said what needs to be said, in a way that’s harder to dismiss.
This strategy is especially useful when requesting environmental supports or technology trials. For example, you might ask for a 30-day trial of noise-cancelling headphones, or request access to voice-to-text tools that support participation without putting pressure on verbal communication. Framing the request as a short-term pilot, grounded in observed needs, can help overcome resistance and allow for low-risk experimentation.
Templates are not just time-savers. They are power tools. They help level the playing field in conversations where power is uneven, expertise is questioned, and urgency is met with delay.
What to watch out for
While templates can be empowering, they’re not one-size-fits-all. Always personalize the content to reflect your child’s actual needs and your relationship with the school. A form letter that sounds overly legalistic or generic may be easier for staff to dismiss. Aim instead for warmth, clarity, and calm assertiveness—grounded in lived experience.
And remember: sometimes the biggest barrier is not knowing how to start. Let the template carry you through the hard part. Then let your voice take over.
Prompt for families
Is there a format I can follow?
Try this letter template
Subject: Request for [support/service] for [child’s name]
Dear [teacher’s or principal’s name],
I’m writing to request support for my child, [child’s name], who is currently in [grade/class name] at [school name].
We’ve been noticing [brief description of the challenge or need—e.g., increased dysregulation, difficulty completing work, signs of overwhelm, etc.].
Based on this, I would like to request [specific support or accommodation—e.g., access to a quiet space, additional EA support, trial use of noise-cancelling headphones, an IEP meeting, etc.].
This support is important because [why it matters—e.g., “without it, [child’s name] is unable to participate fully in learning or remain regulated throughout the day.”]
Please confirm whether this request can be actioned, and let me know what steps the school will take next. I’m happy to discuss in more detail or attend a planning meeting if needed.
Thank you for your attention to this. I appreciate the team’s efforts and look forward to finding a solution that helps [child’s name] succeed.
Sincerely,
[Your name]
[Your contact information]
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The 123s of advocacy strategy
These strategies are practical steps you can take to help your child access support—whether you’re just starting out or navigating a complex situation.
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