How To Communicate With Me

Please know that I understand everything that is said around me. I am intelligent and capable of answering, even though it may often appear as if I am not listening. If I could participate in conversations non-stop, I would, believe me! I make my own decisions, but I will need a qualified communication partner with me to make sure there is reliable communication.  When I am alone, my limited hand and eye coordination can significantly worsen due to anxiety.

IT TAKES TWO TO COMMUNICATE. Here are some things that really help me. Here is how you can help.....

  • Just say “Hello” to me when we meet or pass in the hall. It’s a little thing, but it means a lot. I’m sorry that I can’t always make my body comply with doing something in return quickly. Sometimes it happens and sometimes it doesn’t, but know that I would eagerly greet every person I passed if I could talk. Please don’t think I would ever ignore anyone on purpose.
  • I use a letter board, iPad, or computer to spell out what I want to say. 
  • Make sure I have my letter board or device at all times when we are communicating.
  • It is OK to ask me Yes and No questions but also ask me if I want to compose my own messages on my board.
  • Read my instructions on what to do when I use my communication board.
  • It takes a while for me to answer. Please be patient.
  • Talk directly to me, not just to the person with me.
  • Ask me if there is anything you can do to make communication go smoothly. Usually, the answer is “No”, but sometimes there might be noises or lights or movement in the environment that throw me off. Reducing distractions helps me.
  • Try not to finish my words or sentences for me. It is much harder for me to straighten out misunderstandings when the word someone guesses is wrong, and it can also throw off my concentration to finish what I started writing.
  • Please tell me if you don’t understand my message. I will elaborate or rephrase.
  • When I am at school, events, and outings where everyone is standing or moving, I don’t mind listening for a while, but it is nice if someone notices I haven’t had an opportunity to say anything for a while. An offer to get my contribution to the conversation is always appreciated.