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Niño Early Learning Adventures Point Cook announces Auslan push
Freya Lucas
Jul 29, 2024
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Niño Early Learning Adventures (ELA) Point Cook has introduced Auslan (Australian Sign Language) into its early childhood education program, hoping to enrich communication abilities and inclusivity within the service.
The introduction of Auslan was prompted by an educator’s prior experience with basic key word sign training and began with children in the one to two year old space learning signs like ‘eat’ ‘drink’ and ‘more’ as part of their mealtimes.From there, more signs such as ‘finished’ and ‘wash hands’ were introduced to routine moments in the day such as nappy changes and play, allowing the children to observe and engage with the signs in a natural context.
“Children who previously would get upset when they wanted something can now use the sign for ‘more’ or ‘food’ to communicate with us. The children are more settled and confident in communicating their needs”, educator Emily explained.
“These early communication successes demonstrate the children’s understanding and attempts to use Auslan”.
By frequently using signs and acknowledging all attempts, Niño ELA ensures that children of all abilities can participate and benefit from the program, fostering inclusivity and helping children develop empathy and respect for the deaf and hearing-impaired community.
Parents are also encouraged to bridge the gap between home and care, with observations and achievements shared with families through a communication app. Families have shared that children are using the signs at home, something which is opening up a new window of communication.
“I like knowing that he is enjoying the games or books we are playing, as he will smile and do the sign of “more”, parent Cam said. “Our child is learning words but also learning how to sign his needs which makes it easier for us to know what he wants.”
Jess is a parent, and also the Centre Manager of Niño ELA Point Cook, and said it’s “truly amazing” to watch her son, and other children in the centre, communicating their needs and interests through sign.
“He can only say a few words at this stage; however, I do believe that through learning sign he is able to communicate his needs more effectively,” she said.
“We have started using these signs at home as well and it has given us the confidence in knowing how to support him.”
Niño ELA Point Cook plans to introduce new signs each week and incorporate them into daily routines, further embedding Auslan into the learning experience.
The most rewarding aspect for the educators has been hearing from families about the children’s continued use of sign language at home, highlighting the program’s success in fostering meaningful communication skills.
Learn more about Niño ELA here.
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