Utilizing American Sign Language and Other Multisensory Communication Skills to Improve Communication

Shoshana Phoenixx

Training Description

Trauma and life disruption, as well as anxiety, depression and changing adult guardians takes a toll on system involved youth in many ways. In addition, some system involved youth have developmental, physiologic and environmental disabilities that can dramatically affect their capacity to safely identify and express their needs and participate in conversations and planning for their future. Learning some basics about American Sign Language (ASL) provides an insight to the basics of one method of non-verbal communication. We will explore and develop skills in utilizing a few useful ASL signs, and other paralinguistic drama exercises to foster a wide range of possibilities and freedoms for system involved youth to convey their plans, desires and feelings.

Learning Objectives

• Learn how to identify and accommodate the unique needs and communication challenges of system involved youth with disabilities

• Learn the basic principles and practices of communicating with ASL