Note: This document description was co-created with AI and reviewed by the Elevatus team for accuracy.
This practical two-page guide offers professionals, educators, and support staff 12 actionable tips to help them feel more skilled and confident when discussing sexuality with people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD).
Key tips include:
Being open, nonjudgmental, and kind
Starting early and using teachable moments
Using correct terminology
Keeping explanations simple and positive
Handling embarrassment and difficult questions gracefully
Giving facts without imposing personal values
Written in a supportive and realistic tone, this resource helps professionals improve their comfort level and effectiveness when addressing sexuality-related topics.
Ideal for: Professionals, educators, direct support staff, and anyone who works with people with I/DD and wants to become more confident discussing sexuality.
Katherine McLaughlin, M.Ed., AASECT Certified Sexuality Educator, is the Founder, CEO, and Lead Trainer for Elevatus Training. She has been a sexuality educator and trainer for over 30 years. As a national expert on sexuality and intellectual and developmental disabilities, she trains professionals and parents, as well as people with I/DD, to become sexual self-advocates and peer sexuality educators.
