19
Tips for Better Communication
When possible, choose a quiet environment for
conversations.
Notify your communication partner that you are about to
speak. For example, call their name to get their attention
before beginning to speak.
Let your communication partners know that they need to tell
you if they do not understand what you are saying. The
sooner the communication breakdown is recognized, the
easier it is to repair.
Plan communication when your partner is focused on
communicating.
Use multiple strategies for clarifying your message when a
communication breakdown occurs (i.e. repeating, pointing,
and gesturing).
If possible, communicate face-to-face with others.
Tips adapted from: Yorkston,
K.M., Beukelman, D.R., Strand,
E.A., and Bell, K.R. with Hustad,
K.C. (1999). Optimizing
Communication Effectiveness:
Bringing It Together, Management
of Motor Speech Disorders in
Children and Adults (pp. 483-541).
Austin, TX: Pro-Ed.
