Helping your child communicate is about more than just talking. Before speech develops, children need to listen, pay attention, play and engage and adults are essential in supporting these skills. Adults play a crucial role in supporting these skills. If a child can't listen and understand, they'll struggle to talk.
What is Signalong for Babies?
Signalong is a sign-supported communication method based on British Sign Language (BSL). It uses keyword signing alongside speech, body language and facial expression to help children understand and express language.
Signalong is based on British Sign Language, using unaltered BSL signs wherever possible. The difference between Signalong and other sign-supported communication systems, apart from our much wider range of signs, is the way that they are presented. When the sign has been selected, a description is worked out. This follows a consistent method of handshape, orientation, placement and movement.
Signalong is designed to support spoken language, not replace it. You sign and speak at the same time, helping link signs with speech.
Signalong for Babies includes 106 key signs most appropriate to the most common needs and objects for babies 9 months – 18 months.
Training and Support for Parents
Signalong offers training for families and key people involved in your child’s life including schools, after‑school clubs and care providers, to help your child communicate confidently in all settings.
Parent Participation in Tutor Training
Parents with experience in sign‑supported communication may also choose to train as a Signalong Tutor. Tutor training teaches not just vocabulary, but how to use it fluently and confidently. We offer a reduced training fee of £945 to parents. Further information can be found in Training for Everyone but if you would like to discuss your interest, please contact Tracy at tracygoode@signalong.org.uk.
Signalong for Babies and Toddlers
Every baby is unique and develops at their own pace, but did you know babies can sign back as early as six month’s? By giving your baby, the tools to express their wants and needs before they can speak, you reduce frustration and build a stronger emotional bond. In response to parents’ requests, Signalong created Signalong for Babies and Toddlers:
- 106 signs for babies aged 9 months - 18 months
- 84 signs for toddlers aged 18 months - 3 years
Want to find out more? Head over to the Signalong for Babies website here.
Our daughter had been taught at a school with total communication for deaf and special needs children, it came as quite shock that her residential home didn't understand the importance of following this up. Now, (following Signalong training) staff at her home have said our daughter's behaviour has improved immensely. Without intervention, our daughter would still be locked in a world of silence and becoming more frustrated, with escalating behavioural problems.
