Communication Skills for Direct Care Staff

Categories: DDA Training
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About Course

Communication is not a soft skill — it is a core competency and a legal requirement under COMAR 10.22 for every direct care staff member working in a Maryland DDA-licensed group home. How you communicate with the individuals you support, your colleagues, families, and supervisors directly impacts safety, compliance, and the quality of care you provide.

This training equips Direct Support Professionals with the knowledge, language, and practical tools to communicate effectively across every setting — from reading behavioral cues and using visual supports, to conducting compliant shift handoffs and navigating sensitive family conversations.

Aligned with COMAR 10.22.01.10, COMAR 10.22.07.05(B), and COMAR 10.22.07.09, this course satisfies annual competency requirements and prepares staff to communicate with confidence, professionalism, and compassion.

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What Will You Learn?

  • Understand communication as a legal requirement under COMAR 10.22
  • Apply verbal, non-verbal, and AAC communication techniques in direct care
  • Use person-first language in all interactions with individuals and families
  • Document shift-to-shift communication accurately and compliantly
  • Recognize and respond to communication barriers in group home settings

Course Content

Section 1: Communication as a Core Competency & Legal Requirement

  • Lesson 1.1 – Why Communication Is a Legal Requirement Under COMAR 10.22
  • Knowledge Check – Communication Skills for Direct Care Staff

Section 2: Verbal, Non-Verbal & Augmentative Communication Techniques

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