This week we are celebrating the International Day of Sign Languages (September 23). It’s a chance to celebrate sign languages around the world and recognise how important access to language is for Deaf people – and how enriching it can be for all.
Here in Australia, that includes Auslan: a rich, living language with its own grammar, vocabulary and culture.
At Bonkers Beat, we love bringing sign language into song and learning in early childhood education. Music, movement and Auslan can give children more ways to take part, express themselves and connect with one another.
Why we bring Auslan into music
Children learn through repetition, play and doing things together. A familiar song gives them a lovely place to begin learning signs: they can watch, try a movement, see it again tomorrow and grow more confident each time.
That’s why Auslan has long been part of Bonkers Beat songs and resources. Our Sing a Song resource, for example, brings together music, movement and Auslan signs. The signs add another way for children to engage with the song, whether they’re singing every word, finding their feet in the group or keen to show someone what they’ve learned.
Music can be a joyful introduction to Auslan. It can also spark a bigger conversation about the many ways people communicate and express themselves.
Keep the learning going
An Auslan song is a starting point, but not the whole language. Auslan is the language of the Australian Deaf community, and learning from Deaf people and trusted Auslan resources helps us treat it with the care and respect it deserves.
For educators and families, the next steps can be small. Revisit a sign children enjoyed in a song. Learn how to use it correctly. Give children time to watch one another and have another go. Follow their curiosity when they ask how to sign something new.
Most of all, let Auslan be something children encounter beyond a single celebration day. The more familiar it becomes in their world, the more room there is for connection, curiosity and belonging.
Happy International Day of Sign Languages!
