Communication

This Real Care, Inc. communication training course provides caregivers and service professionals with essential skills for effectively communicating with individuals who have intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). The course emphasizes the importance of presuming competence while recognizing that communication barriers can vary widely between individuals and may not always be immediately apparent. Participants will learn practical strategies including how to assess language skills, use simple and concrete language, employ visual aids, practice active listening, and recognize behaviors like acquiescence and masking that can affect communication. The training covers key concepts such as expressive versus receptive language, the importance of patience and extra processing time, and various communication tools including augmentative and alternative communication methods. By the end of this course, caregivers will be equipped with respectful, person-centered approaches that ensure every individual is heard, understood, and supported in their care.