Objective: The study of intellectual disabilities in children and their diagnosis has become more and more relevant in recent years. In the 21st century, in terms of diagnostics and the implementation of psychological influences, the problem of identifying the features of communication skills in children with intellectual disabilities becomes very significant and urgent. Background: This study aims to review modern ideas about the role of intelligence in the development of communication. The methodological framework of this study was the combination of various theoretical methods of cognition. The author analysed the scientific literature of Russian and foreign researchers. Method: The following methods of scientific cognition were used: data synthesis and analysis. In the process of writing this work on the modern ideas of scientists, according to the subject matter, the author studied the current level of research on this issue. Results: The works of Russian and foreign scientists were considered, as well as conclusions, were drawn about the levels of study of the problem of intellectual disability in children. Conclusion: The practical significance of this study lies in the identification of modern ideas about intellectual disabilities. The study and research of this subject will provide opportunities for the development of a programme of psychological influence on the optimisation of non-verbal communication of children with intellectual disabilities.