Communication is a fundamental part of everyday life. It allows us to express our needs, share our thoughts and feelings, build relationships and participate in our communities. While many people communicate primarily through speech, communication looks different for everyone.
For some people, spoken language may be difficult, unreliable or unavailable. Others may understand language well but find it challenging to interpret facial expressions, body language, tone of voice or other social cues. Communication can also change depending on a person’s environment, energy levels, sensory needs or emotional state.
This is where approaches such as Key Word Signing, Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC), and social cue awareness can make a meaningful difference. These tools and skills can support people to communicate more effectively, increase independence and help others understand what they are trying to say.
What Is Communication?
Communication involves much more than talking. It can include speech, gestures, facial expressions, body language, writing, pictures, signs, technology and eye gaze.
A person might communicate by pointing to an object, using a communication device, signing a word, showing a picture or making a particular gesture. These are all valid forms of communication.
It is important to remember that communication is a two-way process. Supporting communication is not simply about teaching someone how to express themselves. It also means helping others learn how to listen, interpret and respond.
When communication partners are patient, attentive and willing to adapt, people are more likely to feel understood and included.
Key Word Signing
Key Word Signing combines speech with signs to support understanding and communication. Rather than signing every word in a sentence, key words are signed alongside spoken language.
For example, when saying, “Would you like to go outside?”, a person might sign the key words go and outside.
Key Word Signing can be useful for people who have difficulty understanding spoken language, remembering verbal instructions or expressing themselves through speech. It can also provide additional visual information that complements what is being said.
For some people, seeing a sign alongside a spoken word can make communication easier to process. Others may use signs as their primary way of expressing particular words or ideas.
Consistency is important. Family members, carers, educators, support workers and other communication partners can all help by learning and using the signs that are meaningful to the person.
Most importantly, Key Word Signing should be viewed as a way of supporting communication rather than replacing a person’s individual communication style.
Understanding AAC
Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) refers to a broad range of communication methods and systems that support people who have difficulty communicating through speech alone.
AAC can be as simple as pointing to pictures or using a communication board. It can also involve technology, such as a tablet or dedicated speech-generating device that produces spoken words when a person selects symbols, words or phrases.
AAC can be used in different ways. Some people may use it all the time, while others may use it in particular situations when speaking becomes difficult.
For example, someone might use AAC to communicate their needs when they are tired, overwhelmed or in an unfamiliar environment.
AAC should not be seen as giving someone “less” communication. In many cases, it provides greater access to communication and greater independence.
A person using AAC may be able to communicate things such as:
- “I need help.”
- “I don’t like that.”
- “I’m feeling tired.”
- “Can we go home?”
- “I want something different.”
- “I need some quiet time.”
These messages can be incredibly important.
Supporting Someone Who Uses AAC
Communication partners have an important role in making AAC successful.
Give the person enough time to respond. It can be tempting to finish a sentence, guess what someone wants or answer on their behalf when communication takes longer. However, doing this can unintentionally reduce their opportunities to communicate independently.
Instead, pause and allow processing time.
It is also helpful to talk directly to the person rather than speaking about them to someone else. If they use a communication device, look at them and engage with them in the same way you would with someone who communicates through speech.
AAC users should also be encouraged to communicate more than just their basic needs. Communication is about sharing opinions, making jokes, asking questions, telling stories, expressing emotions and participating in relationships.
Understanding Social Cues
Communication also involves understanding what other people are communicating without directly saying it.
These are known as social cues.
Social cues can include:
- Facial expressions
- Eye contact
- Body language
- Tone of voice
- Gestures
- Personal space
- Changes in someone’s behaviour
- The context of a conversation
For example, someone saying “I’m fine” may genuinely mean they are fine. However, if they are avoiding eye contact, speaking quietly and looking upset, their non-verbal communication may suggest something different.
Understanding these cues can be difficult for some people, particularly those who process social information differently.
It is important not to assume that someone is deliberately ignoring social cues or being rude. They may simply interpret communication differently.
Responding to Social Cues
Recognising a social cue is only one part of communication. Knowing how to respond is equally important.
For example, if someone appears upset, an appropriate response might be to ask, “Are you okay?” If someone steps backwards during a conversation, it may be a signal that they need more personal space.
Social skills can be taught through modelling, practice, role-play, social stories and real-life experiences. However, these skills should be taught in a respectful way.
The goal should not be to make someone appear “more normal”. Instead, the focus should be on helping people understand social situations, communicate their own boundaries and recognise the boundaries of others.
Communication Is About Connection
One of the most important things to remember is that there is no single “right” way to communicate.
A person who uses signs, AAC, gestures or limited speech still has thoughts, preferences, feelings, opinions and things they want to share.
Good communication happens when we take the time to listen in whatever form communication takes.
This may mean learning a few signs, becoming familiar with someone’s AAC system, paying attention to body language or simply giving someone additional time to respond.
It can also mean asking rather than assuming.
Instead of saying, “I know what you want,” try asking, “Can you show me?” or “Would you like to use your communication device?”
These small changes can give a person greater control over their communication.
Creating a More Inclusive Communication Environment
Everyone has a role to play in creating communication-friendly environments.
Families, schools, workplaces, support providers and community organisations can all help by recognising different communication methods and making reasonable adjustments where needed.
This might include providing visual information, reducing unnecessary distractions, learning key signs, ensuring AAC devices are accessible or allowing extra time for communication.
Most importantly, people should feel that their communication is valued.
Communication is not simply about getting words out. It is about being heard, understood and included.
Key Word Signing, AAC and an understanding of social cues can provide valuable tools for making communication more accessible. When we combine these approaches with patience, respect and genuine listening, we create opportunities for people to express themselves with greater confidence and independence.
Ultimately, effective communication starts when we recognise that every person has something to say — and every person deserves to have a way to say it.