Some people have communication challenges. It could be the result of cerebral palsy, hearing loss, or another condition that makes it diļ¬cult to pronounce words, causes slurring or stuttering, or not being able to express oneself or understand written or spoken language. Some people who have severe diļ¬culties may use communication boards, sign language or other assistive devices.Ģż
Here are some suggestions to help you interact with people with speech and language disabilities:Ģż
- Just because a person has one disability doesnāt mean they have another. For example, if a person has diļ¬culty speaking, make no assumption they have an intellectual disability as well.Ģż
- If you donāt understand, ask the person to repeat the information.Ģż
- Avoid referring to the disability or using phrases like āhandicappedā.Ģż
- If you are able, ask questions that can be answered ‘yes’ or ‘no’.Ģż
- Take some time. Be patient and polite and give the person whatever time they need to get their point across.Ģż
- Allow the individual to ļ¬nish their sentences themselves without interruption.Ģż
- Patience, respect and a willingness to ļ¬nd a way to communicate are your best tools.Ģż