Every year on 23 September, the world comes together to celebrate the International Day of Sign Languages. This special day shines a light on the importance of sign languages in connecting people, breaking down barriers, and supporting communication for all.

In early childhood, sign language – such as Auslan (Australian Sign Language) – can play a powerful role in helping children express themselves, understand others, and build empathy. Introducing young learners to sign language not only supports children who are deaf or hard of hearing, but also enriches communication skills for all children.

At Bonkers Beat, Auslan has always been an important part of what we do. Our programs, songs, and movements incorporate Auslan signs to give children another way to express themselves and connect with others. By weaving signs into music and daily routines, we help children discover that communication can happen in many ways: through voices, hands, and even movement.

Why sign language matters in early learning

Research indicates that introducing sign language in early childhood has a wide range of benefits for children’s development and wellbeing. Some of the key advantages include:

Boosts communication: Even before children develop strong verbal skills, using signs helps them express needs and feelings.

Builds inclusivity: Learning Auslan fosters respect, understanding, and inclusion from the very beginning of a child’s journey.

Supports language development: Research shows that using sign alongside spoken words can strengthen overall language and literacy skills.

Encourages empathy: Children gain an awareness that people communicate in different ways, helping them grow into more compassionate individuals.

Practical ways to celebrate with your centre

On International Day of Sign Languages, you might:

• Teach children a few simple Auslan signs such as hello, thank you, please, play, friend.
• Incorporate signs into your songs, stories, and routines, making it fun and natural for children to learn.
• Talk about different ways people communicate, and encourage children to share how they might say hello in different languages.
• Explore visual storytelling, such as picture books or gesture-based games.

Resources to support you

At Bonkers Beat, we are proud to offer resources that bring Auslan into your daily practice. Our Auslan resources in the Bonkers Beat shop make it easy for educators and families to introduce signs in a playful, engaging way. These tools are designed to help children connect, communicate, and celebrate diversity. Try the Sing a Song pack to bring Auslan into your service!

A day worth celebrating every day

While International Day of Sign Languages is marked once a year, incorporating Auslan and sign language into early learning can have lasting benefits. By embracing sign language, we give every child the gift of expression, understanding, and inclusion, helping them to thrive in a world rich with diversity.