"Presuming that a non verbal child has nothing to say is like presuming an adult without a car has nowhere to go..."
- Ellen Notbohm.

Signing supports the development of language skills, such as effectively learning, storing and retrieving words. Additionally, a child's confidence as a communicator is positively impacted when they feel they can understand what is said to them and they can express themselves in return.

 

Research has shown that children learning sign language have better social-emotional skills because they are able to communicate their feelings from a young age. This allows them to develop stronger relationships with others and cope better with emotions. One of the core skills needed to master sign language is the ability to focus on what the other person is signing.

 

As a result, teaching sign language to toddlers can help them improve their ability to focus and observe the world around them. This can also translate into better listening skills and help eliminate frustrations of not being understood.

 

We also use photographs, encourage pointing, eye contact, facial expressions and gestures to support requesting, language and communication.