Raising a family is a rewarding journey, and for multilingual families with a child diagnosed with Down syndrome, effective communication becomes even more crucial. Introducing sign language can be a wonderful way to support your child’s development and strengthen family bonds. This guide explores the benefits of sign language for families and how to choose the best option for your unique situation.
Children with Down syndrome often experience developmental delays in spoken language. Sign language provides a powerful bridge, enabling them to express themselves and understand others long before their spoken language fully develops. Research consistently shows that learning sign language alongside spoken language significantly benefits children with Down syndrome, acting as a transitional communication tool and even enhancing spoken language skills in the long run.
For multilingual families, the question of which sign language to use can be complex. If your family, like the one who posed the original question, speaks multiple languages (Finnish and English in their case), incorporating sign language adds another layer to the communication landscape. The “one parent, one language” (OPOL) approach, common in multilingual families, can be successfully extended to include sign language.
When considering Family In Sign Language, several options arise:
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American Sign Language (ASL): Given the family in the original question currently resides in the US, ASL might seem like the most immediately practical choice. ASL is widely used in North America and has a rich community and resources. If you plan to stay in the US for the foreseeable future, learning ASL as a family can provide valuable communication skills and community connection.
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Irish Sign Language (ISL): If there’s a possibility of moving to Ireland, ISL becomes a relevant option. However, it’s important to note that ISL is quite distinct from ASL, being more closely related to French Sign Language. Choosing ISL would be beneficial if you anticipate needing it in an Irish context, but it might be less useful if you remain in the US.
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Makaton: This is a unique “language programme” that uses signs and symbols in conjunction with spoken language. Makaton is designed specifically to support spoken language development, making it an appealing option for families wanting to bridge the gap to verbal communication. It’s not a sign language in itself, but rather a communication tool that can be used with any spoken language.
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Widgit Symbols: Similar to Makaton, Widgit uses symbols to aid communication. It’s another form of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) that can be helpful for children with communication challenges. Widgit focuses on visual support and may be particularly useful for children who are also visual learners.
Choosing the “right” family in sign language approach depends on your family’s specific circumstances and long-term plans. If the sign language is intended as a transitional tool, systems like Makaton or Widgit, which are designed to support spoken language, could be highly effective and easier to learn quickly for basic communication needs. If you envision sign language as a more integral part of your family’s communication, and potentially for longer-term use, then choosing a full sign language like ASL or ISL might be more appropriate.
Regardless of the chosen system, the most important aspect is creating a supportive and communicative environment for your child. Learning sign language as a family can be a beautiful way to connect with your child, celebrate their strengths, and ensure they have the tools to express themselves fully. Reaching out to other families in similar situations and exploring resources from organizations dedicated to Down syndrome and multilingualism can provide invaluable support and guidance as you embark on this journey. Embracing family in sign language is an investment in your child’s future and your family’s connection.
