Information and Advice
- Say their name first to get their attention
- Keep language short and simple
- Say what you mean and mean what you say - be clear and specific
- Avoid inferred meaning and ambiguity
- Avoid or explain irony, sarcasm, jokes, turns of phrase
- Give instructions in correct order of action and break down into small steps
- Be positive - avoid 'no' and 'don't' and say what you want to happen, not what you don't want
- Provide a clear structure to the day/sessions so s/he knows what to expect and when
- Keep to predictable routines
- Explain any changes in advance, if possible, to minimise anxiety
- Make abstract concepts concrete
- Give more time for processing information
- Provide visual support to make your communication clearer
- Be aware that the ability to talk does not mean the same ability to understand
- Teach specific skills for essential language functions e.g. asking for a break from activity, expressing pain, explaining that s/he doesn't understand
Hampshire Autistic Society takes no responsibility for any damage or loss, which may be incurred as a result of action taken on information contained above
