Gestures: What’s the point?
About this course
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 pricing
| Book and pay online | Organisational payment | Student / Returner | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Course Booking | £120 | £140 | £70 |
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
Course presenter
Mary Gavin
Speech and Language Therapist
Mary Gavin is the SLT Clinical Lead for Preschool Complex Needs at Chesterfield Royal Hospital. Her research into types and functions of gestures significantly changed her own clinical practice with non-speaking autistic children. A summary of her research was presented within an article ‘Gestures: The finer points’ in the RCSLT Bulletin, Winter 23/24.
Course topics
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
Who this course is suitable for
Booking information
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.