With the right support and approach, learning can be a powerful way to build confidence, independence, and connection in people with intellectual disability. Let’s explore how that happens.
Start with strengths – not struggles
- People with intellectual disability learn best when we focus on what they can do.
- Start with interests, strengths, and familiar routines, and build from there.
- Learning isn’t about cramming facts – it’s about building on what someone already knows and cares about.
- Example: If someone loves cooking, use that interest to teach counting, safety, hygiene, and reading recipes.
Break it down – one step at a time
- Complex tasks can feel overwhelming, but when you break them into smaller chunks, learning becomes easier (and way less stressful).
- Use step-by-step instructions and check in often to see how things are going.
- Tip: Show one step, let the person try it, then move to the next. Use prompts like, “What’s next?” or “Let’s do this bit together.”
Make It visual (and fun!)
- Pictures, symbols, signs, real-life objects, videos – these are great!
- Many people with intellectual disability are visual learners, which means they understand better when they can see and touch what they’re learning.
- Try using photos, colour-coded checklists, or even cartoons and storyboards to share information.
Use clear language – and repeat it
- Fancy words? No thanks. Keep it simple, clear, and calm.
- Repeat important ideas using the same words each time. Repetition helps learning stick, especially when it’s paired with real-life practice.
- Say it. Show it. Do it. Then do it again tomorrow.
Give time to think and respond
- It’s easy to rush in with help, but people need time to take in information and figure out their answer.
- Learning isn’t a race – it’s a process. Pause, wait, and don’t fill the silence.
- Count slowly to 10 in your head after asking a question. You’ll be amazed at what happens.
Learn with someone – not for them
- Learning should feel like a team effort, not a test. People learn best when they feel safe, respected and involved.
- Make it a partnership – not a lecture.
- Encourage choices. Ask questions. Celebrate small wins. (“You did that step all by yourself! High five!”)
Use real-life practice
- Real learning happens in real situations – at the shops, in the kitchen, at the park, on the bus.
- Find real-life opportunities to practice.
Final thoughts
Learning for people with intellectual disability works best when it’s:
- Simple and step-by-step.
- Visual and practical.
- Fun and focused on strengths.
- Repeated in real-life contexts.
- Done with the person, not to them.
Our products bring this kind of learning to life and make it easier for people with intellectual disability – and their support teams – to learn and grow together.
