I’ll structure it into an Easy Read Level 1–2 training module
with:
- Clear
sections
- Simple
explanations
- Practical
examples
- Trainer
/ learner questions
Communication Skills Module
Effective Communication in
Learning Disabilities
Easy Read – Level 1 & Level 2
1. What is Communication?
Communication means:
- Talking
- Listening
- Understanding
- Sharing
needs and feelings
- Using
words, signs, pictures, or devices
People with learning disabilities may:
- Need
more time to understand
- Prefer
simple words
- Use
non-verbal communication
- Use
communication aids
Good communication helps people feel:
- Safe
- Respected
- Independent
- Included
2. Core Communication Techniques
Use Simple Language
Use:
- Short
sentences
- Clear
instructions
- Concrete
words
Example
❌ “Get ready to go out.”
✅ “Put on your coat.”
Avoid:
- Slang
- Idioms
(“Pull your socks up”)
- Metaphors
(“Hit the road”)
Go Slow & Repeat
- Speak
clearly
- Slow
your pace
- Pause
between ideas
- Repeat
if needed
People may need extra processing time.
Silence is OK — give them time.
Use Visual & Sensory Aids
Support speech with:
- Pictures
- Symbols
- Diagrams
- Objects
- Demonstrations
- Gestures
Visuals help people:
- Understand
- Remember
- Follow
instructions
Structure Information
Break tasks into steps.
Use:
First → Next → Then → Finish
Example
1.
First — Wash hands
2.
Next — Dry hands
3.
Then — Sit down
4.
Finish — Eat lunch
Check for Understanding
Do NOT ask:
❌ “Do you understand?”
Instead ask:
- “Can
you show me what to do next?”
- “Can
you tell me what we just talked about?”
This checks understanding without pressure.
3. Interaction Skills
Active Listening & Patience
- Give
time to respond
- Do not
interrupt
- Show
interest
- Nod or
smile
- Use
encouraging words
Patience reduces anxiety and builds trust.
Follow Their Lead
Watch for:
- Body
language
- Facial
expressions
- Tone
of voice
- Signs
of stress
Adapt your communication style to them.
Respectful Engagement
Always:
- Use
person-first language
- Speak
directly to the person
- Maintain
eye contact (if comfortable)
- Use
respectful tone
Do not:
- Talk
over them
- Talk
to carers instead
- Use
childish language
Never Pretend to Understand
If you do not understand:
Say:
- “Can
you say that again?”
- “Can
you show me?”
- “Let’s
try another way.”
Pretending creates frustration and risk.
4. Supportive Communication
Approaches
Augmentative Communication Tools
Some people use tools such as:
- Communication
boards
- Picture
books
- Symbol
cards
- Tablets
/ speech devices
- Sign
language
These tools:
- Support
expression
- Increase
independence
- Reduce
frustration
Create a Safe Environment
Good communication spaces are:
- Quiet
- Calm
- Low
distraction
- Familiar
Build rapport by:
- Being
friendly
- Using
their name
- Showing
respect
Model Functional Communication
Teach phrases people can use, such as:
- “Stop”
- “Help
me”
- “I
don’t like that”
- “I
need a break”
This supports:
- Choice
- Consent
- Emotional
regulation
5. Why Communication Skills
Matter
Using these strategies helps:
- Reduce
frustration
- Prevent
behaviour distress
- Improve
understanding
- Build
confidence
- Increase
independence
- Support
safeguarding
Communication is a human right.
Level 1 Questions (Easy Read)
1.
What is communication?
2.
Why should we use simple language?
3.
Name one visual aid.
4.
Why is it important to speak slowly?
5.
Give one example of a short instruction.
6.
What should you do if you do not understand someone?
Level 2 Questions (Intermediate)
1.
Explain why idioms and metaphors can confuse people with learning
disabilities.
2.
Describe the “First–Next” communication method.
3.
How can visual aids improve comprehension?
4.
Why is processing time important?
5.
What is augmentative communication? Give two examples.
6.
How does respectful engagement support person-centred care?
7.
Why should we avoid asking “Do you understand?”
8.
How can communication reduce behavioural distress?
Trainer Reflection Activity
Ask learners to:
- Rewrite
complex instructions into Easy Read format
- Practice
using visual prompts
- Role-play
active listening
- Practice
communication breakdown scenarios
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