Springwood
Primary School
Signalong is a key word sign-supported communication system which is based on British Sign Language. It is used, alongside other strategies, to support communication development.
Signalong courses are held within school and run by our in-house tutors, Collette Gibbons, Emma Wilkinson and Sophie Fletcher. The courses are run over a 2 week period i.e. two consecutive afternoons 1.30pm-3.00pm.
Riding the Rapids is a 10 week course for families of children with ASD who are aged between 5-11. The course supports families in developing understanding of behaviour that may be presenting a challenge. During the 10 weeks, participants will learn about the function of behaviour, how behaviour is a method of communication, strategies to support with behaviours that challenge and how to develop play and interaction with their child. The course is run by school in conjunction with CAMHS.
The National Autistic Society (NAS) EarlyBird Plus Programme is a comprehensive course specifically designed to support parents who have a child diagnosed with Autistic Spectrum Disorder aged between 4 and 8. It aims to be a fun and relaxed course which supports an understanding of autism, developing communication and managing behaviour. The course is run by staff from Springwood and consists of 8, two and a half hour group sessions and 2 individual meetings.
Elklan is a communication programme which is designed to support interaction and communication with children with complex needs. it covers topics such as developing thinking skills, developing play skills, maximising interaction and using objects/signs/symbols to communicate.
Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS) is a communication strategy which supports the use of visual pictures as a means of communicating. There are 6 stages of PECS which pupils may work through as their skills develop. PECS is used in conjunction with a wide range of other communication strategies.
At Springwood, we offer information sessions regarding PECS and how you can use it at home to support your child’s communication development.