To mark June and its special significance to the DeafBlind community, we are sharing some tips on building relationships with those you support who are DeafBlind. Why? A strong relationship is essential to effective communication.

1. Provide a welcoming environment- Consider using vibrations, preferred sensory items, and tactile materials to help the DeafBlind person to feel comfortable and cared about.
2. Be present with the person you support- Watch for communication attempts, read body movement, and note preferences for items or ways to connect.
3. Be safe and predictable- Keep the schedule and environment as consistent as possible.  If something has to change, communicate that in a way the person you support understands and can respond to.
4. Respect differences- Each DeafBlind person is unique! It is important that as a supporter you learn about that person and their abilities, wants, and needs.
5. Connect via interactions- When a person attempts to communicate, respond to that person.  Recognize they want to share something, give it your full attention, and respond in kind.

(Source: Building Trusted Relationships Resource Guide https://www.nationaldb.org)

For more information, join us on for our training!
Building Relationships with DeafBlind Individuals on
July 13, 2022 at 1:00PM.