Note: This document description was co-created with AI and reviewed by the Elevatus team for accuracy.
This practical one-page guide helps people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) learn healthy ways to communicate during difficult or emotional moments.
Clear and easy-to-read, the resource outlines positive strategies (the Do’s) and unhelpful behaviors to avoid (the Don’ts) when talking with a partner, friend, or family member while upset.
Topics covered include:
Calming down before speaking
Using “I” statements instead of blame
Listening well
Staying focused on the current issue
Avoiding escalation and old arguments
Ideal for: Self-advocates, couples, families, educators, and support professionals working on healthy relationships and communication skills.
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.
