In my last post, I discussed what Key Word Sign is and how it compares to Auslan. You can read it here if you missed it.

Today, I am going to unpack KWS and how it compares to other AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) tools, specifically communication lanyards and high-tech devices. Each of the different tools available have benefits and limitations. Using my professional knowledge and experience working with young children of various abilities, I will give my honest opinion on how they help, and ways they don’t.

Communication Lanyards

Communication lanyards are a quick and low cost solution for services looking to increase accessible communication. Developed by teachers in special education settings, these are excellent for slower paced settings with lower child-teacher ratios. They provide clear visual cues to help children understand. Like, all AAC though, it has it’s limitations. For fast paced settings (like most early childhood education and care services) they can quickly become ineffective. In a fast paced environment where children are moving quickly between activities, by the time an educator has flicked to the correct card, the communication moment is gone and an opportunity to communicate and connect lost. It also positions the adult as the dominant communication partner as they are the one that holds the communication cards and therefore all the power in the communication exchange.

High-tech AAC Devices

These amazing devices were developed to support individuals with major speech delays, to give people a voice when they cannot speak. There are a number of options on the market depending on the needs of an individual. Some devices track eye movement and generate speech, others are touch screen and can have dozens of options for an individual. For individuals who understand far more than they can say, these are a game changer and can offer wonderful insight into how much someone actually understands and empowers them to communicate and connect. A major limitation for these is that devices can go flat and they can be left behind, causing the individual to be left without access to communication. For others, the battle of removing technology from a child causes conflict and dysregulation.

Key Word Sign

Key Word Sign has been used for a long time across various contexts. It’s exact origins are unknown, probably because non-verbal cues and gestures are a natural part of communication in the absence of speech. KWS offers children a mode of communicating when speech is not yet developed or is unclear. The visual nature of key word sign makes the adult clearer to the child, and also empowers the child to be active participants in communication. It is natural and instantaneous allowing for more effective and prompt communication. KWS is used with speech allowing children to continue to work towards speech. One major limitation for KWS is the need for a certain level of motor skills. For some children with very limited motor coordination, key word sign is not an accessible mode of communication as they simply cannot control their hands and arms sufficiently to produce the signs. It also requires more time and effort to learn the signs, though it is often easier than most people initially believe.

So, there you have it. There are a variety of communication tools available to support clearer communication between adults and children, each with their own set of benefits and limitations. Your job now is to decide – which is right for the children in your care?