This is a large subject with the potential of many interesting discussions. I’ve seen that simple sign language can help avoid communication frustrations. American Sign Language doesn’t link to grammatical English but it does link to concepts. Considering the pictorial, graphic structure of ASL, I believe that a child can more easily access sign language than verbal language. I am not an advocate of continuing ASL for hearing children past their Kindergarten year, but it is a very valuable tool for child and parent/caregiver during the younger years.
ASL incorporates the following:
-the movement of your hands and handshapes,
-the location of your hands in front of you,
-your body language that you incorporate into your signing from your face, head, or arms.
For younger children, I highly recommend “Talking Hands”as a wonderful introduction.Although I am aware that there is some minor inconsistency of signing throughout the video, this small detail can be easily overlooked in view of the engaging presentation it gives as a positive introduction to childhood signing.
Learning Sign Language also benefits children socially and behaviorally (National Research Council, 2001). When children are able to express themselves, they are much more likely to seek out social interactions, and to be rewarded to doing so. Also, behavioral outbursts are far less likely when children are not frustrated by being unable to express needs and wants.”
http://sitemaker.umich.edu/356.kobza/sign_language
Autism 4 Life 