This is when sign language or picture communication systems can be of great help. Sign language provides the child a way to show others what he wants and knows. It allows him to learn the value of sharing what he knows with others. It gives him success in an area that has previously been defeating. It provides him with a tool through which to learn the value of communication.
Sign language has another significant advantage.
When sign language is combined with spoken words, the signs help to cue the correct speech sounds. Children with DAS respond very well to the use of gesture cues for speech production. In the young child, sign language provides not only the gesture cues but the keys to successful communication. Your SLP may choose to teach the child finger cues that help retrieve the manner and place of sound production rather than use signs. This has also been shown to be very successful as it assists the child in retrieving the motor plan for words.