At Perth Speech Therapy, we know that every child deserves a way to communicate and connect with the world. For children with significant speech and language difficulties, one effective tool is Key Word Sign (KWS).
What is Key Word Sign?
Key Word Sign (KWS) is a form of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) that combines spoken words with simple manual signs.
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It is not a full sign language, but uses signs from Auslan (Australian Sign Language).
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Signs are used only for the most important words in a sentence to support meaning.
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For example, instead of signing every word in “Do you want to eat lunch?”, you would sign only “want” and “eat”.
How Does Key Word Sign Help?
Key Word Sign works by giving children visual cues alongside speech. Signs are usually produced more slowly than spoken words, which provides extra processing time (Emmorey, 2002). This makes communication clearer and easier to follow.
Who Can Benefit from Key Word Sign?
KWS can support children and individuals who find spoken language challenging, including:
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Children with autism http://“speech therapy for autism in Perth”
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Children with Down syndrome
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Children with developmental language delays
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Individuals with disabilities affecting verbal communication
Research on Key Word Sign
Research shows that KWS can make a real difference.
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In one study of autistic children, almost all learned both to understand and to use signs. Many even began combining signs, leading to better communication and behaviour outcomes (Bonvillian, Nelson, & Rhyne, 1981).
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While not every child develops speech directly through signing, using signs alongside speech helps build spoken language over time.
Benefits of Using Key Word Sign
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Enhances Understanding – Visual signs make language easier to process.
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Reduces Frustration – Children can express needs without relying only on speech.
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Supports Language Development – Builds vocabulary and reinforces meaning.
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Encourages Social Interaction – Helps children join in conversations and play.
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Fits into Everyday Life – Signs can be used in songs, games, and routines.
Key Word Sign at Perth Speech Therapy
At Perth Speech Therapy, our speech pathologists integrate Key Word Sign into therapy sessions. We also help families and educators feel confident using signs at home, school, and in everyday activities.
If you’d like to learn more about how Key Word Sign can support your child’s communication, contact us today.
What is Key Word Sign (KWS)?
Key Word Sign (KWS) is a form of communication that combines spoken words with simple signs borrowed from Auslan. It highlights the most important words in a sentence to support understanding and expression.
Who benefits from using Key Word Sign?
KWS helps children and individuals with communication difficulties, including autism, Down syndrome, developmental language delays, and other disabilities that affect speech.
Is Key Word Sign the same as Auslan?
No. Key Word Sign is not a full sign language. It uses selected signs from Auslan to support speech but does not replace spoken language.
Can Key Word Sign help my child learn to talk?
Yes. While not every child develops speech through KWS, combining signs with speech often helps build spoken language and vocabulary over time.
How can I learn Key Word Sign?
At Perth Speech Therapy, our speech pathologists teach families and educators how to use Key Word Sign confidently at home, school, and in therapy.https://www.perthspeechtherapy.com.au/
References
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Rombouts, Maes, & Zink (2017)
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Emmorey (2002)
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Bonvillian, J.D., Nelson, K.E., & Rhyne, J.M. (1981). Sign language and autism. J Autism Dev Disord 11, 125–137. https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01531345