Intellectual impairment is characterized by a slower rate of development in the ability to communicate, interact, study, work, and establish independence. Physical, emotional, and behavioral development may also be affected. There are many types and levels of intellectual impairment. Some individuals may require support in most aspects of life, while others need help in only a few specific areas. In many cases the ability to understand is greater than the ability to speak.

Ways to Help

• Speak directly to the person, using words that are easy to understand.
• Give the person honest, specific praise for accomplishments.
• Provide opportunities for service. Even members who are severely intellectually impaired may serve as greeters, pass out programs, pass the microphone during testimony meeting, assist in the nursery, share talents, and serve as home teachers and visiting teachers. Males who hold the priesthood can participate in ordinances. Priesthood holders and females over 12 who have been baptized can serve as proxies for baptisms and confirmations in the temple.

Teaching Tips

• In most cases, teach individuals with intellectual impairment in a regular classroom setting with their peers who do not have this disability. Most individuals should be in age-appropriate classes. Be flexible about advancing a person with his or her age-group. Some people are more comfortable in an age-group one or two years behind. Treat adults as adults, not as children.
• Adapt activities and programs so the person does not become discouraged and stay away from church. Set realistic and meaningful goals in Primary, Young Women, Aaronic Priesthood, and Scouting programs.
• Include the person in discussions of questions. This helps you assess the person's understanding of the gospel.
• Ask peers or friends to walk with the person to class, to help during activities, and to call during the week.
• Use repetition, clear and specific examples, and varied ways to explain ideas and basic principles.
• Use a variety of visual aids, including real objects, models, videos, and pictures.
• Use materials from the meetinghouse library, such as Primary manuals, scripture readers, and the Gospel Art Picture Kit.
• Teach proper classroom behavior through simple classroom rules. Be consistent, loving, and firm. Make the person part of the class, not the focus of the class. The family of the impaired individual may be able to suggest the best ways to teach and manage behavior.
• Help the person participate in optional weekday programs if they have been organized in your area.

Additional Resources

Elizabeth VanDenBerghe, "Helping and Being Helped by the Intellectually Impaired," Ensign, Oct. 1993, 26–32.

Sandy Tanner and Brittany Scott, "My Friend Richie," Friend, Feb. 1989, 44–45.