Through healthy relationships, children learn how to empathize, communicate, express emotions, and develop social skills. Without a clear understanding of healthy relationships, children are more likely to have trouble identifying abusive and unhealthy behaviors. Having the skills to develop healthy relationships improves interactions with friends, classmates, coworkers, family, and romantic partners. This list of resources provides information concerning the process of dating/breaking-up, identifying abuse, and creating and maintaining healthy relationships.
This page discusses elements of healthy relationships. It has information for youth, parents, and educators and features resources like videos, FAQs, and book recommendations.
Source: Amaze
This website has information about different types of relationships abuse. They also offers support to young people ages 13-26 who have questions or concerns about their relationships.
Source: Love is Respect
This resource helps guide youth through boundaries and healthy relationships. It discuses what the foundations of healthy relationships look like.
Source: New York State Website
These boards contain key words surrounding healthy relationships and sexual health with picture communication symbols (PCS) to aid in everyday communication around sexual health.
Source: Mad Hatter Wellness
Learners can explore interactive modules regarding healthy relationships and boundaries.
Source: OAR (Organization for Autism Research)
Learners can explore interactive modules regarding dating, flirting, going on a date, and handling rejection.
Source: OAR (Organization for Autism Research)
This book teaches youth with disabilities about the 'do's and don'ts' of dating.
Source: Terri Couwenhoven
This 1-page resource summarizes the importance of conversation skills. It includes a 'list of rules' to help youth understand how to have a healthy conversation.
Source: Advocate Medical Group: Adult Down Syndrome Center
This 1-page visual aid discusses how to handle a break up. It uses clear and specific language as well as pictures to aid in learning.
Source: Advocate Medical Group: Adult Down Syndrome Center
An easy to read guide discussing relationships. It covers: healthy vs. unhealthy relationships, sexual relationships, and unhealthy sexual relationships.
Source: Suffolk Learning Disability Partnership