Signing Social Group & Networking

I know I talked about it before but nothing much has happended so I am going to get up on the old soap box and bring it up again.I think it would be wonderful to start a social group for our kids/adults that use sign language to augment their communication and have developmental delay.

There are so many out there in little pockets using sign language and one of their biggest problems is their isolation - not knowing enough people to communicate with so why not try networking. If everybody started getting intouch and at least sharing email contacts we could start that way.

Then there could be ???

Skype

Social events

Weekends

Building of skills

Sharing Ideas

All I know is that when Elysha met Maria's son who has Down syndrome and is deaf and also uses sign language there was an instant repoire between both of them. They were just so comfortable with each other and I have found this before. I always feel its the communication - they feel comfortable - they have someone who understands what they want and where they are at.

I have met other parents out there and now I have decided it is time to network. to begin with come to my 'Facebook' link Sign Language and we can get going from there. This page will be an interactive page - you can start your own discussion, ask a question or just follow whats happening. From here people will be able to network. There will only be three criteria:
1. Your child/young adult or person you work or volunteer with using sign language to help them communicate. It doesnt matter how much or how little. It doesnt matter how great or small your or your young persons skills are you are welcome. From the very basics of Makaton to those who have gone on to use Auslan.
2. Your child/young adult or person you work or volunteer with is speech and/or developmentally delayed.
3. You are willing to put in a bit of effort and most importantly be ready to enjoy yourself.

I am going to design a flyer - send me an email and I will send to you so you can forward on to anyone you think maybe interested. Remember distance is not an issue. For those not living near us there is Skype and email and special events.

The best part about this will be the networking - being able to speak to others about issues and successes. Getting help and support.

Our children are very special in that they not only have a disability to deal with but they also have a form of communication that works very well for them but it does have its limitations within mainsteam society. We can help by doing the networking for them and laying out the ground work for them and others to come.

Come on people I want to hear from you and soon.