Language and Communication Options

There are many ways for children to learn and use language. You do not have to choose just one forever. Families can try different options, use more than one at a time, or make changes as their child grows. Communication and language access is deeply personal. The best choice is the one that fits your child and your family’s needs.

To help with decision-making, it is good to understand your child’s current language and communication skills. A professional can do an assessment to find out what your child is doing well and areas in which they may need more support. This information can help create a language and communication plan. If you are not sure where to start, try the Communication Planning Guide for ideas and talk with your child’s professional team members.

Clarifying Receptive and Expressive Communication

Receptive communication is how your child understands others. Expressive communication is how they share their thoughts and needs. In the graphic below, you will see a continuum of receptive and expressive communication.

The language and communication options listed below can help support receptive and expressive communication.

Languages

American Sign Language (ASL): A full visual language that uses hands, facial expressions, and body movement. ASL has its own grammar and structure, different from English. It can be used on its own or alongside spoken language. Children using ASL often grow up bilingual. Learn more about American Sign Language from Keely and Will, who use ASL daily as their first language and communication method.

Bilingual or multilingual options: Some families use more than one language, spoken, signed, or both, at home or in school.

English: Spoken or written English may be used alone or in combination with other languages or communication methods. Schools in Ohio will require that all children learn to read and write English.

Other spoken and signed languages: Different countries and cultures have their own languages, including their own sign languages. ASL is used in the U.S. and parts of Canada, but it is not a universal language across other countries.

Communication Methods/Modes

AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication): AAC includes tools and strategies for children who may need a nonverbal way of communicating. This can be high-tech (speech-generating devices), or low-tech (symbol boards, communication picture books). AAC can even be no-tech key word signing.

Auditory/Listening with Technology: Hearing aids and other Hearing Assistive Technology (HAT) and cochlear implants, can support access to spoken language. Children who use HAT may benefit from speech therapy, or Auditory Verbal Therapy (AVT), to help develop listening and speaking skills.

Cued Speech /Cued Language: This system uses hand shapes and placements near the mouth to show the sounds of spoken language. It works with any spoken language and does not require hearing or voice to be effective. Learn more about cued speech from Jennifer Montgomery, a Nationally certified Cued Speech instructor.

Lip Reading: This method uses visual cues from a speaker’s face. While only about 30% of spoken English is visible through lip reading, facial expressions can add helpful context. In ASL, facial expressions are also part of the grammar (called non-manual markers).

Pidgin Signed English (PSE): Also known as contact signing. PSE blends ASL signs with English word order. It is often used by people who know some ASL but are not fluent. It can be a helpful bridge between ASL and spoken English.

Simultaneous Communication (SimCom): Speaking and signing at the same time, usually using English and ASL. This often results in one or both languages being incomplete, but it can be useful in some situations as a support.

Signing Exact English (SEE): A visual system that shows English grammar and word order using signs, some from ASL and some added. SEE is used to make English more accessible in a visual way. Learn more about Signing Exact English from Christine Croyle, a speech language pathologist.

Speaking/Oral: Using voice to communicate language. Children who use HAT and are learning to speak may benefit from speech therapy, or auditory verbal therapy. Children who are Deaf and not using hearing may learn to speak, usually with support from a speech-language pathologist.

Total Communication: This flexible approach combines several communication methods including spoken, signed, visual, written, based on what works best for the child.

Writing and Reading: Whether using technology or pencil and paper, reading and writing are powerful tools for expressing and understanding language.

Those who are deaf/hard of hearing may choose to code switch, which means switching between communication methods depending on the situation. For example, a child might listen with hearing aids at home but switch to sign language when unable to wear them, such as when taking a shower, sleeping, or swimming. For more information about how to learn the communication methods mentioned here, please visit the Resources for Learning Language and Communication section of this guide.