Katie has very kindly written this post for me. When I was working as a registered child minder, I learned some basic Makaton signs because I was caring for a child with Down syndrome who used signs to back up her vocabulary:

I think you will agree with me, after reading this invaluable post that Katie is a remarkable woman!

hI, I’m Kate- I’m what’s known as deafblind, although that can look different for everyone. For me, I’m profoundly deaf in both ears and have a small pocket of vision in my right eye. I rely on British sign language (BSL) to communicate, and I navigate, the world a bit differently to most, through touch, signs, and lots of adaptation.

I’m also a mum to an incredible 4 year old who is autistic and hard of hearing. From the moment he was born, I just knew he was different and not in a negative way. He’s taught me as much as I’ve taught him.

When I’m not parenting, I’m performing, coaching drama, and working as a sign language coach-because language, expression, and story telling are my passion. And I know first hand just how powerful it is when someone takes the time to learn even a few signs. Especially when it’s for children.

Navigating the world differently as a mum and human:

Living with dual sensory loss means that the world can often feel silent and blurry- but it’s still full of colour, connection and love. I’ve developed tools and routines to help me parent safely and confidently. Whether it’s using signs during bath times, routines with tactile cues, or creating visual contrast to help my vision- we make it work.

What makes it even more special is that my son uses sign language too. It’s his first language .Watching him sign ” mummy” or “I love you” is beyond beautiful. It gives him a voice- something many autistic children can struggle to find in traditional speech.

Why it matters for you-Yes, you reading this.

You don’t need to be deaf to use sign language.

If you’re a parent, child minder, carer or professional working with children- learning a few BSL signs can make a massive difference. It can calm meltdowns, help non verbal kids express themselves, when people take the time with my son- even just to say “hello “or “well done” his face lights up. And that’s a gift every child deserves.

Five simple signs you can learn today.

Here are some basic BSL signs you try today

Hello- A friendly wave from your temple outward.

More- Flat hands coming together.

Finished/All done-Brush one hand away from the other.

Toilet- Make a “T “hand shape and wiggle it

Good job-Thumbs up and a big smile ( yes, the smile matters too.)

They’re easy. They’re fun. And they could help a child feel understood for the very first time.

Final thoughts:

My journey isn’t typical, but it’s full , heart and I love sharing it to open up minds and break down barriers. If you’ve read this far, thank you, you’re already making a difference just by being open.

Come and learn sign language in a fun way-with music, movement and laughter.

Let’s make the world more inclusive, one sign at a time.

Follow me here:

Facebook & Instagram:@katieredstar

website: www. katieredstar.co.uk

About the author

Katie Redstar is an award winning campaigner( UK Campaigner of the year 2021), sign language coach, and performer. She is a proud deafblind mothe rof one , and a passionate advocate for accessibility and inclusion. Katie is also a 4x bestselling author- her latest book’ Thrive without limits’ is available now on Amazon

As always questions and comments are welcome.

Until next time.

Karen

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