Tips for the Speaker

1. Communicate in a quiet environment
   • Turn off the TV
   • Turn off the radio
   • Ask others to be quiet
2. Face the person or animal you are talking to
3. Take a deep breath and talk LOUD
4. Introduce the topic you are talking about
5. Over articulate and speak very clearly
6. Speak slowly – pausing often as needed
7. Limit conversations when you are tired, especially important conversations.  Save those for when you have more strength.

Tips for the Listener

1. Get rid of distractions
   • Turn off the TV
   • Turn off the radio
   • Close the door
2. Face the person and watch them as they talk
3. Let the person know when you don’t understand them
   • Repeat the part of the message that you don’t understand so they don’t have to repeat the entire message
   • If you still don’t understand, ask yes or no questions