Through its adult literacy programs, Ontario has demonstrated its commitment to making literacy agencies and services accessible to learners with disabilities. Though barriers to progressive programming still exist, the government of Ontario has attempted to ensure that people with developmental disabilities have access to literacy services. The Literacy and Basic Skills Section has worked closely with the School Board Access Work Group to develop basic principles of access. These include:

• Measurable progress based on learner-centred assessment and goals;
• The ability to use expressive and receptive communication utilizing symbols;
• Literacy programs as a bridge to participating in the broader community;
• Literacy programs working in cooperation with other service providers and funders.

MTCU has established criteria for participation in LBS programs. Learners must be:

1. without the literacy skills necessary to find and keep a job to meet everyday needs
2. at least 19 years old
3. out of school
4. able to progress

Agencies are allowed to make exceptions, not exceeding ten percent of learners enrolled in a fiscal year. Learners with intellectual disabilities may fall into this category of exception if they do not meet the above criteria.

There are some common traits that may be present in individuals with intellectual disabilities that may help practitioners differentiate them from other adults with disabilities in literacy programs. The following characteristics were taken from an article entitled, "What are Developmental Disabilities?" found at the website JusticeForAll.ca:

Communication:

• Difficulty answering questions or following commands
• Short attention span, easily distracted
• Difficulty describing facts or details
• Limited memory or impaired recall
• Limited vocabulary
• Use of mimicry and imitation in communication
• Says what he or she thinks others want to hear