Let’s Talk!

Communication – let’s talk about it. Communicating is the key, according to every repeated cliche, but crucial to genuine relationships. There are countless words of wisdom from educated influences. For example, film composer John Powell says, “Communication works for those who work at it.”

Author Roy T. Bennett explains the importance of listening, “Listen with curiosity. Speak with honesty. Act with integrity. The greatest problem with communication is that we don’t listen to understand. We listen to reply. When we listen with curiosity, we don’t listen with the intent to reply. We listen for what’s behind the words.”

Listening and speaking intentionally improve interactions with others, including those with developmental or intellectual disabilities. So, what are some tips to better communicate?

Be Clear and Concise
The Harvard Division of Continuing Education explains, “The key to powerful and persuasive communication — whether written or spoken — is clarity and, when possible, brevity” (para. 3).

Speaking directly and being intentional prevents the listener from being distracted from the original message. However, as a listener, if someone is not speaking directly or their speech seems cluttered, it is polite to give full attention. When speaking with an individual with a disability, use a normal and direct tone of voice.

The National League for Nursing clarifies, “Approach the person as you would anyone else; speak directly to the person, using clear, simple communication” (para. 7). Additionally, do not condescend to an individual simply because they have a disability — treat adults as adults.

Recognize Nonverbal Cues
Body language, like expressions and gestures, is a method of nonverbal communication. Harvard describes, “Nonverbal cues can have between 65 and 93 percent more impact than the spoken word. And we are more likely to believe the nonverbal signals over spoken words if the two are in disagreement” (para. 7). Nonverbal tools like body language, gestures, communication aids, and educational materials are helpful for individuals.

Monitor Tone
The way you speak can enhance or undermine what you say. Harvard illustrates, “Tone includes volume, projection, and intonation as well as word choice. In real-time, it can be challenging to control to ensure that it matches your intent. But being mindful … will enable you to alter it appropriately if a communication seems to be going in the wrong direction ”(para. 10). Tone is an example of paralinguistics – aspects of language other than words.  In a heated discussion, practice breathing exercises to manage emotions and tone. The Partners for Youth with Disabilities describes how tone is a crucial part of language, but those with communication-related disabilities may have trouble interpreting it. Speaking with even volume and enunciating properly helps the listener to understand.

Build Emotional Intelligence
Emotional intelligence is the ability to acknowledge and understand one’s feelings. Understanding one’s emotions and empathy for others is important for social interaction. Put yourself in someone else’s shoes and explore their perspective, treating everyone with respect.

We Hear You!
Proverbs 18:21 says, “The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.” Echoing Hills believes in the value of words, especially kind words. We also acknowledge the importance of building others up, empathizing with them, and making them feel appreciated. We hear the voices of our staff and the voices of the individuals we serve. At our organization, you are seen, heard, and valued.

https://professional.dce.harvard.edu/blog/8-ways-you-can-improve-your-communication-skills/
https://www.verywellmind.com/types-of-nonverbal-communication-2795397
https://www.nln.org/education/teaching-resources/professional-development-programsteaching-resourcesace-all/ace-d/additional-resources/communicating-with-people-with-disabilities-e030c45c-7836-6c70-9642-ff00005f0421#:~:text=Approach%20the%20person%20as%20you,you%20know%20the%20person’s%20preferences.
https://www.nfc.usda.gov/AdditionalResources/Civil_Rights/interaction.php#:~:text=Look%20directly%20at%20the%20person,courtesies%20to%20people%20with%20disabilities.
https://www.claro.com.au/247complexcare/recognising-nonverbal-communication-and-tailored-disability-support-services/#:~:text=Nonverbal%20communication%20for%20people%20with,and%20Alternative%20Communication%20(AAC).
https://pyd.org/blog/2019/12/06/talking-about-disabilities-language-tone-and-etiquette/