Unaided AAC is a low-cost, accessible way to support communication using only your body. In fact, many of us use unaided AAC every day without realising it! Things like facial expressions, body language, gestures, and signing are all forms of unaided AAC.
What Is Signing?
Signing is a type of AAC where we use hand shapes and movements to represent words or ideas. It’s a great way to support understanding and expression, especially when used alongside speech. Signing is often used in specialist schools and care settings, where everyone learns the same signs to help people communicate more easily.
However, if someone finds it hard to move their hands, signing might not be the best option. In those cases, other forms of unaided AAC, like gestures or facial expressions, can be just as powerful.
Common Gestures in Unaided AAC
Here are some simple gestures often used in unaided AAC:
- Waving to say hello or goodbye
- Thumbs up to show agreement or approval
- Pointing to indicate a choice or object
- Shrugging shoulders to show uncertainty
- Nodding or shaking the head to say yes or no
- Placing a hand on the chest to refer to oneself
- Reaching out to request something
These can be very effective, especially when used consistently. Gestures can be very personal to an individual too and may be a little more unique.
Things to Keep in Mind
There are different signing systems, and signs can vary between them. It’s important to check which system the person’s peers or support team are using. For signing or gestures to work well, the people around the communicator need to understand them too.
That’s why tools like a communication passport or gesture dictionary can be really helpful. These explain what each sign or gesture means, making it easier for unfamiliar people to understand and respond.
