My Announcement Script

Use this template to help you draft your announcement to your child and other family members. Remember to be clear, calm, and supportive.

Part 1: The Introduction - Setting the Stage

• Start with warmth and connection. What will you say to begin the conversation in a gentle way?"Hi [Child's Name], can we chat for a moment? I want to talk to you about something important that will help you grow even more."
  
  
  
• Gathering family members (if applicable). How will you ensure everyone is present and ready to listen?"[Family Member 1], [Family Member 2], could you join us? We have some new plans we want to share with everyone."
  
  
  

Part 2: The Announcement - What, Why, How, and What to Expect

• The "What": Clearly state the specific accommodation that is changing and what the new plan is."We've noticed how much you've grown with [specific skill related to accommodation], and we're so proud of you! Because of this, we're going to try a new plan for [specific accommodation]. Starting [Date/Timeframe], [explain the new plan clearly and simply]."
  
  
  
  
  
• The "Why": Explain the reason for the change, focusing on growth and your child's abilities."We believe this will help you [explain benefit, e.g., 'become even more independent,' 'learn to manage X on your own,' 'feel more capable']. It's a step towards [future goal/skill]."
  
  
  
  
• The "How": Briefly describe how the new plan will be implemented and what support will be provided."To help you with this, we will [explain support, e.g., 'practice together every day for a few minutes,' 'use a new checklist,' 'be there to cheer you on']. We are a team, and we'll figure this out together."
  
  
  
  
  
• What to Expect (and validate feelings): Acknowledge that change can bring different feelings and set clear expectations."It's completely normal to feel [worried, excited, a little nervous] about new things, and we're here to talk about any feelings you have. We know you can do this, and we're confident in you. From now on, [reiterate the new expectation]."
  
  
  
  
  
  
  

Part 3: The Closing - Reassurance and Openness

• Reassure your child and family of your support."We love you very much, and we're doing this because we believe in you. We're always here to listen and help."
  
  
  
• Open the floor for questions (optional, depending on child/situation)."Does anyone have any questions about the new plan?"
  
  
  

My Drafted Announcement:

Anticipating Reactions Worksheet

It's helpful to think about how your child or other family members might react to the new plan, and how you will respond calmly and effectively.

Step 1: Identify the Accommodation Change

What specific accommodation are you planning to reduce?

Step 2: Brainstorm Potential Reactions

Think about your child and family. How might they react to this news? Consider both verbal and non-verbal reactions.

Step 3: Plan Your Response using De-escalation Strategies

For each potential reaction, how will you respond using the de-escalation strategies we discussed? Remember to validate feelings, acknowledge without arguing, reiterate the plan calmly, set boundaries, offer choices, and redirect.

Step 4: Your Personal De-escalation Phrases

What are some phrases you can use consistently to validate feelings, set boundaries, or redirect during moments of pushback?

• "I hear you, and..."
  
  
  
• "It's okay to feel [emotion], and..."
  
  
  
• "Our family rule is..."
  
  
  
• "You can choose to [option 1] or [option 2], but the plan is..."
  
  
  
• "Let's focus on..."
  
  
  

Use the space below to brainstorm and write down additional personal de-escalation phrases you will use: