Thursday, October 23, 2014

TBT: The Limitations of Sign Language for Children With Speech Delays



I was prompted to write this post by the many conversations that I've had with parents who say that they don't want to pursue AAC but that they are working (usually working hard) to teach their child sign language. I put this post together to have an easy link to share about some points to consider before choosing sign language as a child's primary method of communication.

Will stars in a tiny video clip that really drives the point home :) (Ironically, in the clip he's discussing watching a sign language video!)

It should be noted, of course, that I think signing is a great communication tool for a child to have as part of their total communication toolbox---it just shouldn't be taught at the exclusion of AAC that would let them independently communicate with any communication partner about any topic.

1 comment:

Desirae Pillay said...

It's breaks my heart when people persist in signing excluding AAC. People with disability are individuals and the solutions provided for their needs should be tailor made after investigating all possible options. Thank you for addressing this issue in such a clear way.