For Lola and her family, communication used to be a daily struggle. In 2021, Lola was unable to communicate clearly, and her mother, Sarah, often couldn’t understand what Lola needed or wanted to share. Sarah commented: “Lola always had a great want to speak, always has done and you could see that she really wanted to speak and tell you something, but the ability just wasn’t there, causing Lola a lot of frustration and upset.” Sarah explained that it was upsetting not knowing how to help Lola.
Lola, who has since been diagnosed with Childhood Apraxia of speech, was first introduced to Signalong when she was 4 years old. In 2022, after trying several different methods to help Lola communicate, most of which only added to her frustration, Sarah was invited to attend a Signalong course. Sarah shared: “We were so excited to attend the course. We went and learnt everything we needed to know, hand positions and a wide range of words. The training was thoroughly enjoyable, and we couldn't wait to bring it home and introduce it to our Lola.” Sarah Added: “We introduced a small number of signs to begin with and would add to it once she had them mastered. Well, it is safe to say it has changed her life so much.”
Lola picked up Signalong very quickly and Sarah noticed that her frustration with not being able to communicate started to go. Sarah added: “She finally had a voice and a method to communicate with us. Signalong has honestly changed our life so much.”
Just 2 and a half years later, Lola now knows over 100 signs and can form full sentences and share stories using Signalong. Sarah commented: “It really has been the best thing we have ever done for our girl. She loves teaching people how to sign and corrects people if they get it wrong. No matter where we go, she teaches people a little bit of Signalong.”
Lola signing her favourite drink, Chocolate Milkshake
Sarah added: “Thank you for giving our girl the voice she desperately wanted and needed, and helping her communicate with the world”.
What is Childhood Apraxia of Speech?
Childhood Apraxia of Speech, also known as Developmental Verbal Dyspraxia, is a type of speech disorder where a child has difficulty coordinating the movements needed for speech. To find out more about Childhood Apraxia of Speech visit https://www.oxfordhealth.nhs.uk/cit/resources/apraxia/
Get in touch
Signalong is flexible and adaptable to suit your child’s needs. It’s a key word sign-supported communication system based on BSL and is used in spoken word order, using speech, sign, body language, facial expression and voice tone to reference the link between sign and word.
We can provide training to you, your child’s school, after-school clubs, and respite providers, ensuring your child can always communicate effectively. To find out more about how Signalong could benefit your child, please get in touch by emailing admin@signalong.org.uk. We have over 400 qualified Signalong Tutors running courses all over the UK. Click here to find a Tutor near you.