This introductory workshop is endorsed by Key Word Sign Australia for delivery by Accredited Presenters. It is designed as a bite-sized, practical mini-workshop for parents, teachers, allied health students and support workers.  It covers the use of Key Word Sign and natural gesture for individuals who have communication difficulties. It is a fun, practical and informative workshop. No prior sign experience is necessary. 

This workshop only covers brief theory on key word sign and only 30 signs from the Key Word Sign Interactive Vocabulary. It is designed as an introduction to key word sign and isn't part of the formal Key Word Sign training pathway.  Participants requiring more substantial theory, up to 80-100 key word signs and sign fluency are recommended to attend our full-day workshops (e.g. Getting Started with Key Word Sign and Introductory Workshop) which are a part of the official Key Word Sign Training Pathway. 

WHAT IS KEY WORD SIGN?

Key word sign is an intervention approach and communication method to help children and adults with communication difficulties have a say in life. It can be used:

• as a bridge to help speech develop
• as a supplement for speech that is unclear
• as an alternative form of communication when learning to speak is too challenging
• as a tool to help comprehend what others have to say
• to promote an inclusive communication environment that values the many different ways people have to communicate 

WHAT WILL HAPPEN AT THE WORKSHOP?

In this interactive workshop participants will learn:

• what Key Word Sign is and who can benefit from using it;
• how it can be used alongside other methods of communication;
• how Key Word Sign is different to Auslan (sign language);
• where to find resources to help; and
• 30-50 signs in practical, everyday activities relevant to an early years settting

The workshop will include:

• A package of tailored, practical resources
• Lots of fun, impactful and practical learning!

WHO ARE THE PRESENTERS?

The KWSA Accredited Key Word Sign Presenters for this workshop are members of the disability team at Therapy Matters, Tania Teitzel (Principal Speech Pathologist/Director) and Jacqui Sullivan (Clinical Leader Speech Pathologist). Tania and Jacqui both have over 30 years experience meeting the needs of children with communication difficulties.  They have experience in the use of key word sign for children and adults with a range of disabilities (such as global developmental delay, Down syndrome, Cerebral Palsy and autism spectrum disorders) as well as children who are late talkers and children with severe speech sound disorders (such as childhood apraxia of speech). They are passionate about finding a way for all individuals to communicate and have their say in life. 

WHAT WILL IT COST?

Each workshop ticket costs $120

MORE INFORMATION 

For more information on Key Word Sign see Key Word Sign Australia

For more information on this workshop at Therapy Matters contact Tania Teitzel

PHONE: 07 55207860

EMAIL: workshops@therapymatters.com.au