Interaction Considerations

Patience is the key
Don't pretend you understand if you don't
Other considerations:

• Encourage self-expression, but do not pressure to speak

• Allow the person to complete what they are saying

• Ask if writing may be easier

• Allow the use of assistive devices

• Anxiety can aggravate a speech disability

• Do not insist that they talk in a group

• Allow one-on-one communication

• Allow communication boards, symbols, & cards for commonly used words

• Consider exchange of non-essential job duties requiring speaking