I’ve recently had a number of childcare services contact me and ask if I offer Auslan sessions. Which always makes me laugh because I can’t give a straight yes-no answer. There is more to it than that. To tackle this topic once and for all, I thought I’d write a blog about it, so here we are.

What is Auslan?

Auslan, or Australian Sign Language, is the language of the Australian Deaf community. It is a full, beautiful, complex language that takes years to master. Typically it is used without any voice or spoken word, though some Deaf people can and do speak, not all do. Out of a deep respect for the deaf community, I want to make this clear – Auslan is just as hard, if not harder to learn than English, or any other spoken language. It has it’s own unique sentence structure and there are ways of expressing in sign language that aren’t possible in spoken languages. And yes, there are different sign languages all over the world! Even within English speaking countries, the sign languages vary significantly. As a young woman I lived and worked in Ireland for a year, and while there I decided to learn ISL (Irish Sign Language) and it was SO different to Auslan, it was absolutely learning a whole new language.

What is Key Word Sign?

Key Word Sign (KWS) is an augmented and alternative communication (AAC) strategy, it should always be used with speech to support communication and understanding. In Australia we borrow these signs from Auslan. For children with speech and language delays, KWS can be easier for them than speaking and promotes an inclusive communication environment where they are able to actively participate, connect and contribute.

Which is better to learn, Auslan or KWS?

Well, this really depends on many variables: why do you want to learn? what are you goals? how much time do you have? who are you learning for?

KWS is faster to learn because you are not learning a whole new language, but individual signs that you can memorise along side the English word you already know. It is hugely beneficial if you are working with young children who are not yet talking, or have a speech and language delay. However, if you currently work with or want to work with the deaf community, you are going to need to learn Auslan, which takes years of dedication and practice, but is fun, fulfilling and incredibly rewarding.

What is the difference between KWS and baby sign language?

The mechanism of KWS and baby sign language is actually the same. KWS is the term used when referring to the system implemented for individuals who have delayed or impaired speech and language. Whereas baby sign language is the term used for and by parents with infants wanting to support communication before speech develops. Either way, we are using signs to facilitate communication in the absence of speech.

So, there you have it. If you have more questions about Key Word Sign or Auslan training, or just want to have a chat about it all because you are that sort of person, please feel free to get in touch!

Happy Signing!

Meg

 

About the Author:

Meg is an Auslan interpreter, Early Intervention Teacher, author and mum to 2 bright little people. She has dedicated the last 4 years of her career (life) to supporting more children to achieve better communication and connection through key word sign.