Every Child Has a Voice

Unlocking the Potential of Deafblind Communication

It can feel overwhelming at times, but there are wonderful resources and starting points to help you explore and support your child’s unique way of communicating. Every small step matters, and this space is here to guide families and educators in nurturing growth, understanding, and connection.

Understanding Deafblind Communication

Recognizing and Building on Existing Methods

Children who are deafblind communicate in diverse and often subtle ways. Research shows that tactile cues, gestures, body language, and the use of objects or devices are all meaningful forms of communication, and each child develops a unique system to interact with the world. Recognizing and responding to these early communication behaviors provides a foundation for further language development and social engagement.

Studies emphasize the importance of observing and interpreting individual cues, whether through posture shifts, gestures, or vocalizations. These behaviors are valid and intentional forms of communication, and consistent acknowledgment and support can enhance a child’s ability to connect with others.

By building on existing communication strategies, caregivers and educators can foster meaningful interactions, increase engagement, and promote developmental growth. Research highlights that early recognition and reinforcement of these behaviors support confidence, understanding, and more effective communication over time.

Building Blocks of Deafblind Communication

Foundations for Effective Communication

There are a few things that can make a big difference when supporting communication for children who are deafblind.

1. Communication Already Exists: Communication often begins long before a formal system is introduced. A smile, a movement, a change in posture, or a sound can all carry meaning. When we learn to notice and respond to these signals, we begin to understand how a child is already communicating with the world around them.

2. Every Child Benefits from a Communication System: Many children thrive when they have access to a consistent and structured way to communicate. This might include tactile signs, objects, pictures, or communication devices. When a system is used consistently across home, school, and therapy settings, it becomes easier for the child to express themselves and be understood.

3. Trust Comes Before Language: Strong communication grows from strong relationships. When children feel safe, supported, and understood, they are more willing to engage and try new ways of expressing themselves. Building trust creates the foundation that allows communication to grow naturally over time.

Creating a Communication-Rich Environment

Supporting Communication Through Total Communication

Many children who are deafblind benefit from a Total Communication approach, which encourages the use of multiple forms of communication together. This may include gestures, tactile signs, objects, pictures, vocalizations, body language, or communication devices. Rather than relying on just one method, Total Communication allows children to use whatever tools help them express themselves most effectively.

By responding to all forms of communication and modeling different ways to communicate, caregivers and educators create more opportunities for connection and understanding. Over time, this flexible approach helps children build confidence, develop stronger communication skills, and engage more fully with the people around them.

Integrating Choice-Making

  • Allowing children to select their clothing each day
  • Offering options for activities during free time
  • Letting them decide the order of tasks in their routine
  • Providing a variety of snacks to choose from
  • Scheduling breaks based on their preferences
  • Encouraging input on family outings or events
  • Encouraging choice in learning materials
  • Allowing selection of music or stories
  • Offering choices in communication methods
  • Providing options for seating arrangements
  • Letting children decide on play partners
  • Incorporating choice in art and craft activities
  • Facilitating choice in daily schedules
  • Allowing children to choose their bedtime stories
  • Offering options for weekend activities
  • Providing choices in the order of meal courses
  • Encouraging decision-making in group projects
  • Allowing children to select their favorite games