Asking for help can be difficult for a lot of people. Yet, we all need help from time to time.
However, knowing when you need help is one thing, but knowing what to say when you need to ask for help is another thing (hint: try these social scripts).
Then there are the occasions where you might be so overwhelmed or stuck that mouth words become unreliable. Especially in environments, such as school or work, that can be busy, chaotic, and full of sensory stimuli.
Well, that's what these I need help cards are for. They're a great way for kids, teens, and adults alike to advocate for their needs and request help when they need it.
So, let's take a closer look at these help cards, what's included, and how or when you can use them.
About these Free Printable I Need Help Cards
This set of cards are perfect for kids, teens, or adults who may need help asking for assistance, whether that's at home, at school, at work, or while out and about.
You can simply grab a card and show it whenever you are feeling overwhelmed, stuck, confused, unsure, etc. instead of having to rely on mouth words.
In total, there are 32 different cards in this set, including:
- 23 black and white cards that feature an icon paired with the text "I need help." and one card that is text only
- 8 color cards featuring clipart (includes diverse images and even sign language) paired with the text "I need help."
You certainly don't need to print all of these cards off. Just print off the pages that will be the most relevant to your needs.
Then, once you've printed them off, cut and laminate for durability. Then keep the cards accessible, whether that's on your child's desk at school or home, on a lanyard, in your purse, in your pocket, etc.
Examples of When & How to Use these Help Cards
These help cards are versatile and can be used for a wide variety of situations and environments. For example, you could use them:
- At school when you're feeling stuck or confused, don't understand the instructions, need clarification, can't find certain supplies, etc.
- For emotional support
- At home when you need guidance, comfort, or support
- At work when you need clarification, don't understand a task, need troubleshooting help, feeling overwhelming with workload, etc.
- When lost or confused in a public setting
- When instructions are unclear
- During extracurricular activities such as lessons or sports
- During therapy sessions or medical appointments
- In new or unfamiliar situations
- When overstimulated
- When you feel a meltdown, shutdown, or sensory overload is close
Really, these cards are great to keep on hand everywhere you go. After all, you never know when you might need help or guidance.