Baby Sign Language Classes

KWS vs other communication tools

Meg — Tue, 17 Mar 2026 03:36:49 +0000

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…

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What is the difference between Auslan and KWS?

Meg — Tue, 03 Mar 2026 03:49:16 +0000

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.

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Meet Henri – A baby sign language case study

Meg — Mon, 17 Nov 2025 04:35:23 +0000

Meet the delightful Henri. Henri’s parents joined a Baby Sign playgroup course when he was just 3 months old. Over the 6 week course, they learned over 100 signs and implemented them throughout their day, every day. Henri thrived with baby sign language becoming an important part of the family’s everyday life. (Photo and story shared with permission) Key Points: So what happened?

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How KWS Empowers and Protects Young Children with Disability

Meg — Fri, 01 Aug 2025 06:15:22 +0000

The first three years of a child’s life are a critical window for language development. During this time, a child’s brain is growing rapidly, laying the foundation for lifelong communication, learning, and social connection. But for some children with disability, spoken language may emerge later—or not at all. That’s where Key Word Sign can make a huge difference. Key Word Sign is a…

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Behavioural strategies for preschoolers…

Max — Wed, 21 May 2025 05:55:19 +0000

From Tabitha, a clinical registrar Psychologist. Here are a few strategies when working on managing our little ones big emotions to make it easier on everyone involved. 1.Setting clear boundaries and expectations: • Use simple, directive and concise language – less is more! e.g. “use a quiet voice” rather than “when you yell in public it’s not okay.” • Demonstrate and model the…

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Case Study – Key Word Signing for better language & behaviour

Max — Wed, 08 Jan 2025 05:20:07 +0000

I’ve changed the name of the child for privacy and confidentiality purposes. This is just one example, but I’m quite sure most centres would have at least one child at their service that presents similar to Zack. Who: Zack, 3-yo, boy What: Very limited language, single words, not clear at all. No diagnosis. Reactive, aggressive behaviours of concern, including hitting, biting, screaming…

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Why language matters in behaviour management…

Max — Wed, 27 Nov 2024 05:31:11 +0000

As an early childhood educator, you already know how important language development is for children. But did you know that improving language skills can also lead to better behaviour outcomes? When children can express themselves clearly, they are less likely to feel frustrated, overwhelmed, or misunderstood—leading to fewer challenging behaviours. Take a moment to think about the children in…

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Why Using Free Online Resources for Key Word Signing Can Be Risky

Max — Thu, 14 Nov 2024 05:34:56 +0000

We’ve all been there – you’re looking for something new, something that could make a difference in your classroom or care setting, and you stumble across a “free resource” online. It looks great! It promises easy-to-learn tips, free signs, and even videos to follow along with. Who doesn’t love free stuff, right? But here’s the thing: not all resources are created equal. And when it comes to…

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Key word signing for inclusive education

Max — Wed, 09 Oct 2024 05:35:27 +0000

In early childhood education, creating an inclusive learning environment is essential for supporting all children, regardless of their communication abilities. One simple yet powerful tool that educators can use is key word sign. This strategy enhances communication, reduces frustration, and fosters a more inclusive space for children with diverse needs, including those with autism and behaviour…

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Are we seeing a language crisis in our kids?

Max — Tue, 10 Sep 2024 06:40:52 +0000

If you’ve been reading along for a while, you’ve probably noticed that I am SUPER passionate about language development in our kids. There’s lots of reasons for that, but the main one is that language is a gateway into our children’s minds. There is a direct correlation between language scores and cognitive ability, play skills, social and emotional skills and of course literacy and numeracy.

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