Sign Supported Communication
What is Sign Supported Communication?
Signing builds on the natural instinct to gesture when speaking. As visual communication, it operates on a different part of the brain to the sound of speech, and can help to make sense of the words which are being used. There is also the kinaesthetic aspect of moving hands and body which may help to stimulate a response in the brain.
Sign-supported communication can be used by people with a very wide range of difficulties and disabilities.
It may help children with language delay or autism spectrum disorder to overcome the block to developing speech.
It can help children with glue ear - common in Downs Syndrome - to keep in contact with what is being said when their hearing fades.
Being able to use a different method may relieve the tension caused by the failure to meet expectations of language development.
Inability to express oneself leads to frustration experienced by people of all ages and this can cause an emotional spiral culminating in challenging behaviour or self-harm. Signing can reduce this frustration and tension.
Achieving successful communication promotes self-esteem, independence and inclusion.
