Improving speech, language and communication in pre-school children: implementation and effectiveness of the Sign 4 Programme, Luton, UK

Abstract

The Sign 4 Programme uses sign language to support understanding and language development in hearing pre-school children. Nursery staff and parents read to children using Sign 4 story books and dolls to reinforce key words with sign language to facilitate story telling. Repeated use may help to improve children's comprehension, use of linking words, help with pronunciation and use of more complex words, as well as helping children to identify different emotions which allows them to 'name and tame' more challenging behaviours (such as 'frustrated' and 'angry'). The aim of this study is to find out whether the Sign 4 Programme improves language, speech and communication in pre-school children.