An auditory-visual communication approach combining a system of hand cues with the natural mouth movements of speech, specifying each sound (phoneme) of spoken language clearly.

A hand shape (consonant groups) at a location (vowel groups) cues a syllable. This integration provides clear access to all the phonemes (sounds) as parents coo, babble and talk.

PRIMARY GOALS

• To provide clear communication in the spoken language of the home.

• To develop the phonemic language base to achieve full literacy in conversation, reading and writing.

• To support speechreading, speech and auditory skill development.

LANGUAGE DEVELOPMENT (receptive)

• The child absorbs language through early, consistent, clear communication using Cued Speech, speech­reading and hearing.

• Cueing boosts auditory awareness, discrimination and understanding.

EXPRESSIVE LANGUAGE

Cued, spoken and written English or other languages (60+ cued languages).

HEARING

Early, consistent and appropriate use of hearing technology (hearing aids, cochlear implant(s), FM system) is important with this approach.

Requires ongoing auditory management.

FAMILY/PRIMARY CAREGIVER RESPONSIBILITIES & GUIDANCE

• Parents are expected to learn to speak-and-cue at all times in order for children to absorb the phonemes critical to language and reading readiness.

• Families need to provide consistent use of cues and speech during daily routines and play activities.

• The system is taught in less than 20 hours through multi-media, classes, and Family Cue Camps.  Consistent daily use and practice leads to conversational ease within a year.

More Info and Related Links

DailyCues
Language Matters
The National Cued Speech Association Cued Language Network of America (CLNA)
Testing, Evaluation, and Certification Unit (TECUnit)

Click here for a complete  Communication Options Chart