Whether your little one is learning spoken language, sign language, or both, VISUAL cues are invaluable.
Children who are deaf or hard of hearing rely on their eyes to take in information around them. By incorporating visual cues such as facial expressions, sign language, and gestures, into everyday interactions and activities, you can create an environment that fosters communication, engagement, and development for your infant.
Facial Expressions:
Maintain eye contact and exaggerate your facial expressions to convey meaning and emotions. Smiling broadly, raising your eyebrows, or frowning helps your baby associate expressions with specific feelings.
Gestures and Signs:
Start early and use simple signs like “milk,” “more,” and “all done.” Consistently use these signs along with spoken words. This helps your baby learn and use these signs to communicate.
Body Language:
Enhance your communication with body language. Spread your arms wide to show something big or tilt your head to indicate a question.
Visual Aids:
Incorporate picture books and brightly coloured toys. Show real objects while naming them to build vocabulary.
Consistent Environment:
Create a visually rich and consistent environment. Use labeled pictures for toy bins. Create visual schedules or cue cards with pictures to represent daily activities like feeding, bathing, and sleeping. This provides structure and predictability, helping your child to anticipate what comes next.
By integrating these visual cues into your daily interactions and activities, you can enhance communication and bonding with your infant.
Download the Real Life Tips infographic.
- Getting ready to listen learn | Babyhearing.org
- Maximize visual access tips | Hands and Voices
- How do I meet the needs of my child and help others to meet them as well | NDCS UK
- Communicating with your baby
