So do you use BSL or Macaton or does Oz have it's own sign language system?
Funny and true story, I once tried learning sign language however after two lessons the teacher told me that due to my short, stubby fingers it was like I was speaking with a lisp.
FYI, Makaton is a sigh support system for people with difficulties understanding or using verbal language. It's not capable of replacing language due to the fact that it only really contains nouns, verbs and adjectives. So, you can sign "big yellow cup" or "more" to help a child to understand (or help themselves to express their needs) but you can't express more complex semantic or syntactic language.
@Cammy
Unfortunately I work with people all the time who don't understand how to communicate with people whose communication is different to their own. It's usually due to embarrassment at their own inability to adapt their own communication, or fear of making a mess of it. It's a shame because it reduces opportunities for both parties
