In the UK, some people with learning disabilities learn Makaton (http://www.makaton.org/about/about.htm) as their first language. It is a simplified form of BSL (British Sign Language). The idea is that by using sign and speech together, Makaton makes it easier to learn speech (http://www.makaton.org/about/parents.htm). It also removes the frustration that some disabled people have when they can't get their mouths or voices to work. Although not everyone understands Makaton, at least they will be able to communicate with their parents and carers.
Makaton has been used for a while - I know a 40 year old who learnt modified BSL as his first language. Eventually Makaton users should be able to progress to Sign-Supported English, normal English or BSL, which helps them function in the wider world.
This list of research papers might answer your question (http://www.makaton.org/research/research.htm).
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Date: 2005-09-13 06:32 pm (UTC)Makaton has been used for a while - I know a 40 year old who learnt modified BSL as his first language. Eventually Makaton users should be able to progress to Sign-Supported English, normal English or BSL, which helps them function in the wider world.
This list of research papers might answer your question (http://www.makaton.org/research/research.htm).