The first of three booklets in a series designed to help parents of handicapped children birth to 5 years old focuses on the communication process. A chart lists developmental milestones for both expressive and receptive language. Learning processes for communication (such as imitation, sensory knowledge, and memory) are reviewed. The bulk of the booklet emphasizes the parent's role in helping the child communicate by creating a responsive environment. Activities are suggested for a variety of principles in developing communication skills, such as reducing frustration, responding to all forms of communication used by the child, and helping the child develop attending, listening, and memory skills. Examples of two young children with handicaps are presented and sample teaching activities for each are provided. (CL)