Nursery World - My Best course - Using visual language

Michelle Tarry explains that taking a course in signs and symbols
has helped her to teach children of all abilities.

The use of signs to aid children's understanding is supported in the Early Years Foundation Stage, which talks about 'the need to be alert to the child demonstrating attainment in a variety of ways, including eye pointing, use of symbols or signs.'

Manager Michelle Tarry has long used signs and symbols at Ruddington Day Nursery, Nottingham. She says, 'We are big on integrating children and have found that using symbols has meant other children were able to communicate with the children with difficulties. We used a symbol and phrase to help a child whose first language is Portuguese know that they need to brush their teeth, and their parents hold the same symbol up at home while repeating the phrase in Portuguese.'

Register now to continue reading

Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:

What's included