The manual examines ways in which nonprofessional group home health care workers can enhance the communication and interaction skills of developmentally disabled clients. The communication process is explored in terms of information exchange, both verbal and nonverbal. Examples of vocal, nonvocal, and echolalic speech are offered and suggestions made for observing and keeping data on communication. General strategies in learning to communicate are noted as are special problems (such as dealing with clients' repetitive questions). The manual concludes with lists of reference materials on sign/signal systems and communication board picture materials. (CL)