A gesture, a point, a look—these early attempts to connect are powerful stepping stones toward language. For children with additional needs, however, expressing wants, needs, and interests can be more challenging. That’s where sign language—especially simple, early signs—can make a meaningful difference.

From expressing our needs to sharing our experiences, communication is an essential part of life. May is Speech and Hearing Month, a time to celebrate the life-changing difference speech-language pathologists, communicative disorders assistants, and other professionals in the field can make by helping kids find the tools that will best help them communicate effectively. “Communication is not just speech; it's also gestures and facial expressions and signs,” said Fran Talarico