Gestures: What’s the point?

This course explores all types of neurotypical and atypical gestures, communication functions, and intentionality. The training is based on the belief that when the communication partner has a deeper understanding of non-speaking interactions, they can better empower and support autistic children.

Suitable for anyone who communicates with non speaking children either as a professional or practitioner working with young children (eg SLT or SEND)

This evidence-based training has specific application to non-speaking autistic children. It explains the role gestures play in developing a child’s understanding and expressive language, and suggests approaches that encourage gestures naturally.

Course Times

The course duration is 9.30 am to 4.00 pm (UK Time) – For a list of course dates and times please go to the Booking page

Please book your place here or alternatively, you can contact us if you are you would like to:

• Book four or more courses (we can offer you a discount)
• Make a block booking for a group
• Book a closed course

The following areas of gestures are examined:

• Full range and classification
• Gestures used by autistic children
• Communication functions
• Which gestures are intentional
• The role gestures play in developing a child’s understanding and expressive language
• From theory to practice – how to encourage naturally with children as part of their language learning journey

This course is suitable for: Early Years Practitioners, Returners to Speech and Language Therapy, SEND Professionals, Speech and Language Therapists (SLTs), Speech and Language Therapy Assistants, Speech and Language Therapy Students, Speech Pathologists, Teachers, Teaching Assistants

This course is available on various dates throughout the year. To view available course dates, select your preferred date and book your place, please click here.

During the booking process, you can select to reserve a place instead (while you confirm you can attend or to organise payment through your employer for example). We can hold your place for up to four weeks, if we have not heard from you after this time, we may need to cancel your reservation so other people can attend the training.

Course Beetle is an approved supplier for NHS Trusts, Local Authorities and Schools.

Discounted places are available for Makaton Tutors – please book your place using the Student/SLT Returner booking rate (Makaton Tutor ID Required)