Learning Auslan at Aspire White Hills

As part of the curriculum at Aspire White Hills, they have recently implemented a new Auslan program at the centre for the kindergarten children. Every Monday, Alicia from Language Tree, who provide Language programs for children aged 2-12 years, runs an Auslan program to the children and educators at White Hills.

Auslan is a visual form of sign language that is used by Australian Deaf and hard-of-hearing communities. Auslan uses two-handed signs and even body movements to communicate the language, and sometimes ‘finger spelling’ is used to describe a word that doesn’t have a common sign attached to it.

During the sessions at White Hills, Alicia teaches various Auslan greetings, phrases and finger spelling, where the children and staff then repeat back to her.

Aspire White Hills believes its important to create awareness and a greater understanding and learning of Auslan amongst young children, our educators, and families. This ensures a more connected world for the Deaf and hard-of-hearing communities.

With a couple children whom are partially deaf, and family members with hearing aids or hearing loss, the centre recognised the benefits of introducing Auslan. This decision aimed to enhance the engagement of the children and foster a supportive environment that ensures everyone feels included.

Brooke Perry, Centre Manager at White Hills says “Since starting this journey with the children a few weeks ago, they have really adapted to learning Auslan, and even our Aspire staff are learning, which means we can continue to implement and develop together, even when Alishia isn’t here.

"The children are keen for this new learning experience, and we can’t wait to see what they learn for the rest of the term.”

To learn more about our Aspire White Hills curriculum and programs, book a tour today at the centre or enquire now to speak to our team.