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Family Resource Hub

Supporting Communication


Every person communicates in their own way and helping them express themselves and connect with others is a key part of everyday life. These OCALI resources are designed to give families simple, practical tools to support communication that works for their loved one - whether it’s through words, gestures, pictures, or other methods - across home, school, and community settings.

Here, you will find ideas to:

  • Use different methods of communication, helping loved ones share thoughts, feelings, and needs in ways that make sense to them.
  • Share strategies with family, friends, and educational teams, creating consistent support wherever your loved one goes.
  • Notice and observe, taking a moment to understand what is being communicated and how best to respond.
  • Support processing and understanding, helping loved ones feel confident and independent in everyday routines.

Many of these resources are part of larger collections, but this page offers a starting point for communication supports. Resources will be added as they become available, giving families ongoing ideas to help their loved ones connect, express themselves, and thrive.

Click on any resource below to get started.

An Exploration of Communication

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This video highlights the importance of recognizing all behavior as a form of communication, which enhances observation skills, understanding, and empathy.

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Autism Center Grab n’ Go Resource Gallery: First-Then Board

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This visual support shows what the individual will do first and then what to do next. These easy-to-use boards can be made to match the individual's communication mode.

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Autism Internet Modules: Visual Supports

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This module explains what visual supports are, how to create them, and when and how to use them.

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Communication Navigation Essentials Toolkit

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Use this toolkit to learn how to support communication for youth with complex needs in their home, school, and community.

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How To Video: How-to Adapt Choice-Making in the Daily Schedule

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Video 3 in the How-To Tips and Strategies Series shows simple tips, adaptable materials, and strategies to easily support all learners.

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How-To Video: How-to Provide Access to Literacy Part 1: Adapted Literacy Materials

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Video 10 in the How-To Tips and Strategies Series shows simple tips, adaptable materials, and strategies to easily support all learners.

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Online Instructions Based on Communication Mode

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Ensuring all learners have access to the curriculum begins with identifying their preferred communication mode. This video explores how to identify these preferences and their impact on access.

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Looking to explore additional topics? Navigate back to the Family Resource Hub.