6 Communication Strategies That Make a Real Difference

Clear communication is the heart of good support. But when it comes to working with participants with disability — especially those with communication challenges — it’s not just about what you say. It’s about how you say it, when, and whether the message really lands.

Here are six practical strategies we use every day to support clearer, calmer, and more effective communication with the people we work with.

1. 🧏‍♀️ Use Visual Aids to Support Understanding

Many participants — especially those with autism, intellectual disability, or ADHD — process information better when it’s visual. That’s why we use:

• Visual timetables

• Step-by-step picture guides

• Social stories and cue cards

• Emotional regulation charts (like Zones of Regulation)

These tools help make abstract concepts concrete and give participants more autonomy over their day.

2. ✋ Keep Language Simple and Direct

Avoid long-winded explanations or ambiguous language. Instead, try:

• Short, clear sentences

• Pauses between ideas

• Repeating key words rather than rephrasing

For example: Instead of “Let’s wrap things up and head to the car so we’re not late,” try “Pack up, please, it's Car time. We don’t want to be late.”

This doesn’t mean talking down — it means communicating in a way that respects how the participant understands the world.

3. 🔁 Give Processing Time (and Don’t Rush Silence)

Not everyone processes verbal language at the same speed. After giving an instruction or asking a question, try the 10-second rule:

📣 Say it once.

⏱️ Wait quietly for 10 seconds.

💬 Only repeat if needed, using the same words.

This avoids overwhelm and gives participants space to think — which shows respect for their communication style.

4. 👀 Match Your Nonverbal Cues to Your Words

Body language matters. If your tone or posture feels rushed, annoyed, or overbearing, it can easily override the meaning of your words — especially for people who are highly attuned to emotional cues.

Try:

• Neutral or open posture

• Soft tone of voice

• Eye contact only if appropriate

• Smiling with your voice, not just your face

5. 📱 Use Technology (When It Helps)

For some participants, communication apps, voice output devices, or even texting can bridge the gap. The key is knowing what tech works for them — and making sure staff are trained to use it properly.

Some examples include:

• Proloquo2Go or other AAC apps

• iPads with visual schedules

• Notes apps for nonverbal replies

• WhatsApp groups for families or staff teams

We’re always happy to adapt and learn if a participant communicates in a different way.

6. 🧡 Let Communication Be a Two-Way Street

The best strategy? Actually listening.

Support isn’t just about giving directions or managing tasks — it’s about building connection. When we slow down and give participants space to express themselves (whether that’s with words, gestures, signs, or drawings), we show them their voice matters.

And that makes all the difference.

🙌 How We Use These Strategies Every Day

At Loving Life, communication is never one-size-fits-all. Whether someone uses words, visuals, tech, or body language, our team is trained to meet them where they’re at — with patience, respect, and encouragement.

These strategies are baked into the way we run 1:1 supports, group programs, and everyday life skills sessions.

Because feeling understood should never be out of reach.

📍 Based on the Gold Coast

📝 Contact us here if you’d like support that fits your style of communication.