38 basic communication skills
When you are with your child, expect him to use gestures, signs, or
sounds. Your child needs to learn that his words or signs are important
and that people react to his communication.
• Use gestures often to send messages to your child.
Sunil’s aunt is
using a gesture.
Titus’ grandmother
is using a gesture
and word together.
No!
• Use the hand movements your child already uses to communicate.
Many children begin to make up hand movements that name objects,
people, or activities. If you watch for these movements, you and your
family can begin to develop ‘home signs’.
For example:
Tae Woo points at a bird.
Tae Woo makes a ‘flying’ movement
to name the bird.
Tae Woo’s mother uses
his movement together
with words.
A bird!
These signs are very useful for family members to communicate with
each other but they may not be understood by other people. See page 40
for more information on home signs.
Helping Children Who Are Deaf (2004)