Category: Communication

Categories
Accessible Communication ASL Baby Sign BSL Communication Cued Speech Hearing Well-Being Makaton Sign Language

Cued Speech

Photo by CDC on Unsplash

When we think of sign language, we often picture British Sign Language (BSL) or American Sign Language (ASL), both of which have their own grammar and structure. But did you know there’s another system designed to support spoken language and improve communication for deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals? Cued Speech is a visual communication tool that helps bridge the gap between spoken and written language, making speech more accessible through hand cues.

Cued Speech - bridging the gap between spoken and written language
Photo by Towfiqu barbhuiya on Unsplash

What is Cued Speech?

Developed in 1966 by Dr. R. Orin Cornett, it is a way to improve literacy and language comprehension for people with hearing loss. It is not a sign language but rather a method that enhances lipreading by using eight handshapes to represent consonant sounds and four placements around the mouth to represent vowel sounds.

For example, if you watch someone say the words pat, bat, and mat, they all look very similar on the lips. Cued Speech clarifies these words by adding distinct hand cues to indicate which consonant sound is being spoken.

How Does it Work?

Cued Speech pairs hand movements with the natural spoken language to visually differentiate sounds that look similar when lipreading.

Cued - hand movement
Photo by Stephen Audu on Unsplash

Here’s how it works:

  • Handshapes: Represent consonant sounds (phonemes).
  • Hand Placements: Show vowel sounds by positioning the hand in different locations near the face.
  • Mouth Movements: Remain synchronized with natural speech so that the person receiving the cues can combine both visual elements for clear understanding.

Why is it Important?

  • Cued Speech directly represents spoken language.  It can help people who are Deaf to develop stronger reading and writing skills.
  • Unlike “traditional” sign languages like BSL or ASL, Cued Speech can be adapted to any spoken language.
  • By clarifying similar-looking sounds, it makes lipreading far more effective.
  • Cued Speech directly represents speech sounds so it can be used to learn different spoken languages without confusion.

Examples of Cued Speech in Action

Let’s take a look at a few examples where Cued Speech makes communication clearer:

Example 1: Differentiating Sounds
Imagine someone is saying the words pet and bet. Without sound, they look identical on the lips. With Cued Speech:

  • Pet might use a handshape representing “P” at the chin placement for “E.”
  • Bet might use a different handshape representing “B” at the same chin placement for “E.”

Example 2: Supporting Speech Development
Learning to read can be a challenge for children who have hearing loss because they don’t always have clear access to phonics. This is where Cued Speech comes in.  It gives them a visual representation of sounds, helping them understand the relationship between spoken and written language.

See more from Deaf Choices UK

Who Can Benefit?

Cued Speech is valuable for:
✅ Children with hearing loss – Helps them learn spoken language and improve literacy.
✅ Adults with acquired hearing loss – Supports better speech perception.
✅ People with auditory processing disorders – Aids in distinguishing sounds more effectively.
✅ Families of deaf children – Helps create an inclusive home environment.

Photo by CDC on Unsplash

Your Cued learning journey starts here!

There are free training resources available for families with deaf children and it doesn’t take long to learn the basics.  Many learners pick up the system quickly with practice.

Would you like to explore Cued Speech for yourself or your family? try these websites :

UK Deaf Choices UK

USA National Cued Speech Association

Catch up on all our sign language posts here: https://www.hearingambassadors.org/latest-news/

#CuedSpeech #HearingLoss #Lipreading #SignLanguage #AccessibleCommunication #HearingAmbassadors

Categories
Accessible Communication ASL BSL Communication Makaton Sign Language

Makaton: A Bridge Between Speech and Sign

Makaton is a unique communication system that combines signs, symbols, and speech to support language development and understanding. Originally developed in the 1970s, it is widely used in the UK to help people with communication difficulties express themselves more effectively.

Photo by Assad Tanoli on Unsplash

This sign language uses many simplified signs from BSL and is particularly beneficial for anyone with who finds difficulty with communication, such as people with hearing loss or speech and language difficulties.  It is used by both children and adults in many situations.

Unlike full sign languages, Makaton is designed to support and encourage spoken language, rather than replace it. It can help users feel more confident in communication, reducing frustration and improving social interactions.

How is it Taught and Used?

Makaton is typically introduced through structured training programs, available through Makaton tutors and online resources. It is used in:

  • Schools and nurseries to help children with communication needs
  • Hospitals and healthcare settings to support patients with speech difficulties
  • Community spaces like libraries and supermarkets to improve accessibility
  • Everyday home life for families who want to enhance communication with loved ones

The Role of Music and Songs

Using Makaton in class singing
Photo by Erika Giraud on Unsplash

It is often taught through singing and music, making it fun and engaging. Popular children’s programs like Something Special with Mr Tumble have introduced the language to a wider audience, and many nurseries and schools incorporate it into songs to help children learn words and signs together.  Indeed, out own grandchildren are learning it!

How Does Makaton Relate to BSL?

It borrows signs from British Sign Language (BSL) but has key differences:
The signs are simplified to make them easier to learn.
The signs follow spoken word order, whereas BSL has its own grammar and structure.
It also uses symbols alongside signs to reinforce meaning.

Because of these differences, Makaton is not a full sign language like BSL, but it can serve as a stepping stone for those who may later learn BSL.

Is There an ASL Version 

Whilst it is primarily used in the UK, similar systems exist in other countries. In the US, Signed Exact English (SEE),serves a similar purpose by supporting communication with simplified signs while following spoken English word order. SEE is based on American Sign Language (ASL) but is not considered ASL itself, as ASL has a distinct grammatical structure.  In Austrailia  Key Word Sign is very popular

Makaton in Everyday Life

Many public places and services now use Makaton to create a more inclusive environment. Look out for Makaton signs in:
Hospitals – helping patients with communication difficulties
Libraries – staff signing to assist young children and those with disabilities
Supermarkets – where employees are trained to use basic  signs for customer service

Makaton Sign in Hospital
Photo by Jason Leung on Unsplash

Common Misconceptions About Makaton

❌ Makaton is just simplified sign language. – While it uses BSL signs, it is designed to support spoken language, not replace it.
❌ If you use Makaton, you won’t learn to speak. – Research shows that Makaton actually helps many people develop their speech by reinforcing words with visual signs and symbols.
❌ Only children use Makaton.– People of all ages benefit from Makaton, including adults recovering from strokes.

Final Thoughts

It is a powerful communication tool that enhances understanding and inclusion for people with hearing, speech and language challenges. While it is not a full sign language like BSL or ASL, it plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between spoken and signed communication.

Try these free resources to get started.

  • The Makaton Charity – Free Resources. The official Makaton Charity offers a variety of free downloadable resources, including vocabulary lists, activities, and guides.  Access requires a free account.

  • Twinkl – Makaton Teaching Resources. Twinkl provides a wide range of printable and digital teaching resources, including worksheets, eBooks, games, and PowerPoints, suitable for various educational settings.

 

Find out more about ASL, BSL, Baby Sign and Cued, in the news section on our website

Credits: website icon by Icons8

Categories
Accessible Communication ASL BSL Communication Sign Language

BSL and ASL: Are they the same?

BSL v ASL - Different Start
Photo by Marco Kaufmann on Unsplash

As part of our ongoing series on sign languages, we’re taking a closer look at British Sign Language (BSL) and American Sign Language (ASL). While both are rich, fully developed languages with their own unique history, culture, and identity, it’s easy to assume they’re the same—after all, the UK and the US share English as a spoken language. But what about sign language?

BSL and ASL shared common language
Photo by freestocks on Unsplash

You may be surprised to discover that BSL and ASL are completely different languages, each with its own grammar, hand shapes, and origins, making them as different as English and Japanese.

Let’s explore 4 key differences between BSL and ASL.

1. Different Origins

BSL and ASL evolved separately and have different historical influences:

  • BSL dates back to the 18th century and developed from a mixture of regional sign systems in the UK.   Thomas Braidwood’s School for the Deaf, one of the first Deaf schools in Britain, was instrumental for formalising the language.
  • ASL has roots in French Sign Language (LSF), introduced to America in the early 1800s by Laurent Clerc and Thomas Gallaudet. This means ASL shares more similarities with LSF than BSL!
2. Hand Shapes & Fingerspelling
  • BSL uses a two-handed fingerspelling system, where both hands form letters.
  • ASL uses a one-handed fingerspelling system, similar to LSF.
3. Grammar & Sentence Structure

BSL and ASL do not follow English grammar—they have their own rules:

BSL and ASL Grammar
Photo by Clarissa Watson on Unsplash

BSL Structure(Subject-Object-Verb – SOV)

  • English: I am going to the shop
  • BSL: Shop I go

ASL Structure (Topic-Comment or Subject-Verb-Object – SVO)

ASL often follows Subject-Verb-Object (SVO) order but also uses Topic-Comment structure, where the topic is stated first, followed by additional information.

Example:

  • English: I am going to the shop tomorrow.
  • ASL: Tomorrow, shop I go.
  • (Raised eyebrows on Tomorrow to indicate time reference.)

In ASL, facial expressions and body shifts play a crucial role in meaning. For example, when asking a yes/no question, eyebrows are raised; for a WH-question (who, what, where), eyebrows are furrowed.

BSL and ASL eyebrows
Photo by Josue Escoto on Unsplash
4. Use of Mouth Patterns & Non-Manual Features
  • BSL uses facial expressions primarily for emphasis, emotion, and some grammar, but it relies more on mouth patterns to mirror English words than ASL does
  • ASL is highly facially expressive, using eyebrow movements and body shifts to indicate tone and grammatical aspects like questions. These non-manual signals are grammatically required by ASL.  They are not just optional expressions. They change the meaning of signs and help structure sentences.

Regional Differences & Variations

Both languages have regional dialects:

  • In BSL, sign variations exist across the UK, with distinct differences between Scotland, England, and Wales.
  • In ASL, variations occur between states and even between BASL (used in African American Deaf communities) and standard ASL.

Both ASL and BSL are rich, expressive languages that have evolved over time to meet a wide range of communication needs. With adaptations for all ages—babies, children, and adults—sign language offers accessibility and flexibility for everyone. Stay tuned for our next article, where we’ll explore more about how sign language is used in different settings!

Here are some great resources to get you started: BSL and ASL

Categories
Accessible Communication Communication Hearing Ambassadors Hearing Well-Being

Sign Language – more than just a language

Sign Language
Photo by Fotos on Unsplash

Sign language is a rich and expressive way of communicating using hand movements, facial expressions, and body language. Different countries and regions have their own distinct languages, such as British Sign Language (BSL), American Sign Language (ASL), and French Sign Language (LSF). Just as with a spoken language, there are many regional dialects and variations.

Origins

Sign languages have developed naturally over centuries within Deaf communities. Some of the earliest recorded uses date back to Ancient Greece, but more structured systems emerged in the 18th and 19th centuries.

Photo by Greece Newstart on Unsplash

LSF –  Was developed in France, and influenced ASL and others. This is one of the earliest formalised sign languages.
BSL – Evolved from various localised sign systems in the UK.
MVSL – Originated in a small Deaf community in Martha’s Vinyard, USA.  MVSL contributed to the development of ASL.
LSE – Was developed in Spain where monks used signs to communicate.

Local Deaf communities have given a special shape to their language, education, and culture, so it isn’t surprising that each country’s and region’s versions have evolved differently.

Primary Users

Signs are used to good effect by those with communication challenges, but the primary users are Deaf and hard-of-hearing people, their families and colleagues.

Are the Signs the Same Worldwide?

No! Just like spoken languages, sign languages have their own grammar, vocabulary, and regional dialects. For example, BSL and ASL are completely different languages, even though both are used in English-speaking countries.  We will look into some of the differences in a later article.

Photo by Kyle Glenn on Unsplash

Derivatives of BSL

British Sign Language is the basis of several derivatives including:

SSE (Sign Supported English) – which uses English word order with BSL signs to support communication.  
Makaton – a simplified system that combines signs, speech, and symbols to help people with communication difficulties.
Baby Sign – a way of teaching babies to communicate their needs before they can talk.

An Official Language?

Yes! Some countries have made an official recognition of sign language, giving it legal protection and meaning that it can be used in education, public services, and government communication.

BSL became an officially recognised language in Britain in 2022
Photo by Rosemary Li on Unsplash

The countries which officially recognise sign language include:

United Kingdom – BSL became an officially recognised language in 2022.
New Zealand  – NZSL is an official language alongside English and Māori.
South Africa  – gave SASL official language status in 2023.

Many other countries have recognised their national sign languages in some legal capacity, but full rights and access still vary.

More Than Just a Language

Sign language is deeply connected to Deaf culture and identity. It’s not just a way to communicate—it fosters community, and understanding. It breaks down communication barriers and brings people together.

Sign language is a beautifully expressive way to communicate, and we believe it is a valuable skill for everyone.

Sign Language is for everyone
Photo by Assad Tanoli on Unsplash

By taking the time to learn even the basics, hearing people can contribute to a more accessible and connected world and show respect, understanding, and a commitment to equality.

Learning any new language benefits the brain, and sign language is no exception. This is because it engages multiple parts of the brain—including those responsible for language processing, spatial awareness, and motor coordination—so this new skill can improve your cognitive function.

Why not start today? Whether through online courses, community classes, or simply practicing with a friend, begin a rewarding journey that will open doors to new experiences and deeper human connections.

If this has sparked your interest and you would like to learn more, please explore the links below.

Please use the Contact Us form to share your thoughts with us.

Categories
Accessible Communication Communication Hearing Loss Hearing Well-Being workplace

Why is good lighting good for hearing?

Good Lighting
Photo by Natasha Hall on Unsplash

When we think about hearing, we often focus on our ears—but did you know that good lighting is good for hearing too.

Hearing is not just about sound; it’s also about visual cues, body language, and lip reading. Good lighting can make a significant difference in helping people with hearing difficulties engage more effectively in conversations and social interactions.

Why is good lighting good for hearing
AdobeStock_659950890.jpeg

1. The Role of Good Lighting and Visual Cues in Hearing

Communication is a combination of listening and visual processing. Facial expressions, lip movements, and gestures all provide essential context to what is being said. In dim or poor lighting, these cues become harder to read, making conversations more challenging for people with hearing loss. Good lighting ensures that these visual signals are clear and accessible.

Vusual Clues
Photo by Anton Malanin on Unsplash

2. Lip Reading and Facial Expressions

Many individuals with hearing loss rely on lip reading to supplement their understanding of speech. Without adequate lighting, reading lips and picking up on subtle facial expressions becomes nearly impossible. Shadows, backlighting, or flickering lights can obscure details, leading to misunderstandings and frustration.

Good lighting - face in dark
Photo by Malik Earnest on Unsplash

3. Avoiding Eye Strain and Fatigue

Straining to see in poor lighting can be exhausting.  We all have to work harder to interpret visual cues in bad lighting, but for people with hearing poor lighting, increases cognitive load and fatigue, making communication even more tiring. A well-lit environment reduces this strain, making conversations smoother and less draining.

4. Enhancing Group Conversations

Background noise can be a significant barrier for those with hearing loss. In social settings, where multiple conversations happen simultaneously, a well-lit environment helps us identify who is talking, making it easier to follow group discussions, and enabling us to focus on the person speaking.

Good lighting in a restaurant
Photo by Priscilla Du Preez on Unsplash

5. Choosing the Right Lighting for Better Communication

To create a hearing-friendly environment, consider the following lighting tips:

  • Avoid strong backlighting (such as sitting in front of a bright window) as it can create shadows on the face.
  • Use soft, even lighting to minimize glare and harsh contrasts.
  • Ensure faces are well-lit to make lip reading and facial expressions easy to see.
  • Consider adjustable lighting to adapt to different situations and needs.

6. My eyes are my ears

Lighting isn’t just about seeing better—it’s about hearing better, too. or as one of our followers put it so well, “my eyes are my ears” By ensuring our environments are well-lit, we can support clearer communication, reduce fatigue, and help people with hearing loss stay engaged in conversations. Small changes in lighting can make a big difference in making the world more accessible for everyone.

Are your spaces hearing-friendly?

Take a moment to check your lighting, and you might be surprised at the impact it has on communication!

If you would like to know more about hearing accessibility, take a look at our post Seven Simple Steps to Create Hearing Friendly Spaces

This post has been inspired by our Facebook follower, David.

Categories
Communication Hearing Well-Being workplace

Seven Simple Tips to create Hearing-Friendly Spaces

Photo by Maciej Pienczewski on Unsplash

Seven simple tips; One BIG impact

Imagine struggling to understand what someone says, not because they’re far away but because background noise, poor lighting, or overlapping voices make communication difficult. Whether it’s your workplace, a community space, or an online meeting, here are seven simple tips that won’t break the budget but will make a world of difference to your meeting space and help to foster full participation.

Tip 1 – Background Noise

If you are in a big meeting or just chatting with a friend, turn off background noise such as music, the radio, the TV or even the tap when having a conversation.  This might seem obvious, but it’s surprising how many people forget that background noise has an enormous impact on how well we hear.  That’s why we have made it our number one tip.

Seven simple tips - background noise
Photo by Alexander Shatov on Unsplash
Tip 2 – Lighting

Have you noticed that often people subconsciously put their glasses whilst listening intently to what you have to say.  Why?  Because they want to see your face clearly so they can pick up on your expressions and read the sounds that you make through your lips.

Seven simple tips - lighting
Photo by Etienne Girardet on Unsplash

Our second tip is that because everybody lipreads, good lighting makes for good listening.  Look out for our next post which will be dedicated to lighting!

This goes for online meetings too. Always check that your camera is positioned so everyone can see your face clearly, and add a desk lamp for that extra illumination.

Seven simple tips - online meetings
Photo by Compare Fibre on Unsplash
Tip 3 – get their attention before speaking

Often the most important part of a sentence is right at the beginning where you put everything into context so get their attention before speaking.  How?  Say their name or gently tap their arm.

Tip 4 – Talk one at a time

Nobody likes meetings where everyone talks over one another this is because it’s hard to know which conversation to listen to. In order to get the best from your meeting, encourage participants to talk one at a time.  An added unexpected benefit is that if you follow this tip, your meetings will be more productive and quicker too!

Seven simple tips - talk one at a time
Photo by Gabriella Clare Marino on Unsplash
Tip 5 – Avoid Shouting

Some people think that it’s a good idea to speak a little louder or more clearly.  We would suggest that a calm, normal tone works best. Always avoid shouting, as it can come across as aggressive.

Tip 6 – Skip Exaggerated Gestures

You should also just talk normally and skip those exaggerated gestures, which can confuse rather than clarify.

Seven simple tips - avoid exaggerated gestures
Photo by engin akyurt on Unsplash
Tip 7 – Soft Furnishings

If you have ever hung curtains in an empty room, you will know that soft furnishings make a real difference. Rooms with high ceilings and hard surfaces can be difficult for everyone, so if you can, add soft furnishings like carpets, curtains or even a cushion or two.  This will reduce echo and improve acoustics.

Seven simple tips - soft furnishings
Photo by Alesia Kazantceva on Unsplash

Want to make your meetings more hearing-friendly?

Hearing Ambassadors offer expert talks to any organisation on simple, effective ways to improve hearing well-being for your entire team.

Click here today to contact us directly or select one of our talks and book an in-person or online session via Speakernet

Categories
Communication Hearing Ambassadors Hearing Well-Being

Talking to Me: Bridging the Communication Gap

Talking to me - ask for clarification
Photo by Mimi Thian on Unsplash

Not everyone immediately understands how to communicate effectively with someone who is hard of hearing. That’s why we created “Talking to Me,” a Hearing Ambassador’s resource to help bridge the communication gap caused by hearing loss.

“Talking to Me” offers eight simple tips which will empower you to advocate for your needs. It is inspired by Gael Hannan’s thought-provoking YouTube video, and we hope it will help to contribute to a more inclusive world.

1. Be open

One of the most empowering steps is to let people know about your hearing difficulty. A simple statement like, “It helps me follow the conversation better when I can see your face—would you mind facing me when you speak?” sets expectations and helps others adjust how they talk to you. This puts you in control of the conversation and ensures you get the clarity you need.

Talking to Me - please face me when you speak
Photo by Brooke Cagle on Unsplash

2. Say what works best for you 

Different people have different communication needs. Some may rely on lip reading, while others benefit from written communication or assistive technology. Clearly and confidently letting others know how you prefer to communicate not only improves conversations but also raises awareness and understanding of how others can engage with “Talking to Me”

3. Be in a space that works for you

You deserve to communicate in a space that works for you. Good lighting and minimal background noise can make a huge difference. Don’t hesitate to adjust your position slightly so it’s easier to see their facial expressions, or even suggest moving to a quieter spot. Taking the lead in these situations helps create a more accessible environment for everyone.

4. Ask for clarification

If something isn’t clear, don’t be afraid to ask for clarification. Tell them that a relaxed and steady rhythm makes speech easier to follow and there is absolutely no need for them to shout or exaggerate lip movements.

Talking to me - ask for clarification
Photo by Mimi Thian on Unsplash

5. Use Visual and Non-Verbal Cues

Communication is so much more than just words. Use gestures, pointing, or written notes when needed to reinforce your understanding. Simply nodding or shaking your head can provide feedback to show if you’re following the conversation. These tools help you stay engaged and in control of how you communicate.

6. Advocate for Hearing-Friendly Practices

When you speak up for your communication needs, you’re also speaking up for millions of others. Simple requests, like one person speaking at a time in meetings or using good lighting and captions on video calls, create a more inclusive environment for everyone. You’ll be surprised at how receptive people are and how much these changes enhance understanding for everyone.

By taking the lead, you will make a real difference.

7. Make the most of Technology

Technology is a powerful ally. Smartphone apps, hearing aids, and speech-to-text technology can enhance conversations. Many people find it fascinating to see how their words are translated in real-time, turning the conversation into a shared learning experience for everyone. Don’t hesitate to use technology and encourage others to do so. Your ability to access information and engage in discussions should never be compromised.

8. Stay Patient and Positive

Taking control of communication doesn’t mean it will always be easy. Not everyone will immediately understand how to communicate effectively with someone who is hard of hearing. By remaining patient, using humor when appropriate, and offering gentle reminders, you create a more supportive and inclusive environment.

Photo by Viktor Forgacs on Unsplash

Final Thoughts

People with hearing loss often develop heightened visual skills, creative problem-solving abilities, and a profound understanding of communication. Let’s celebrate these strengths and educate others about the positive aspects of hearing loss, shifting the conversation from limitation to empowerment, shaping the world for the better.

Continue the “Talking to Me” conversation and let us have your tips on what has worked well for you.

========> Get in Touch