ALL Communication Is Valid: Why We Need to Celebrate Every Way Our Children Express Themselves

When you think of communication, what comes to mind? For many, it’s spoken words—clear sentences, back-and-forth conversation. But here’s the truth: speech is just one form of communication, and it’s not better than the others.

A girl signing "help".

Any way a person shares a thought, feeling, want, need, or idea with another human is real communication. Signs. Gestures. Speech-generating devices. Pictures. Pointing. Vocalizations. Eye gaze. All of these open the door between one mind and another—and that is what communication is all about.

So why do we, so often, act like speech is somehow superior?

We ALL Use Multiple Ways to Communicate—Even Fluent Speakers

Think about it: even if you’re a fluent speaker, you’ve still had moments when words fail you. Maybe you’re at a loss for words when you get bad news. Maybe you wave frantically across a crowded room to signal “I’m here!” or point to your drink when you’d like a refill.

Gestures fill in the blanks when words can’t—or won’t—come out. And nobody thinks twice about that. So why do we put limits on children or non-speaking people when they use gestures, signs, or pictures to share what they know and want?

Sign Language Is Language

Here’s another important point: sign language isn’t “extra.” It’s real language. Every sign is a meaningful symbol that attaches to an idea, object, or action—just like spoken words do. When a child signs “milk,” you know exactly what they want. You’re not going to hand them a cookie by mistake.

Signing helps the brain categorize information, store meaning, and make connections. For many kids, it gives them a bridge to spoken words—or it becomes their main, reliable form of communication. Either way, it’s valid, meaningful, and powerful.

The Magic of Pairing Words and Signs

Most parents teaching signs don’t even realize they’re layering communication opportunities. Think about it: when you sign “more,” you probably say “more” at the same time. When you sign “milk,” you probably say “milk” too.

That means you’re offering your child two clear pathways to the same meaning: they hear it, they see it. When they try to imitate the sign, they’re adding movement and touch to the experience. Multiple senses, multiple pathways—more chances for the brain to connect the dots.

Here’s the Bottom Line

When we value all forms of communication—words, signs, gestures, pictures—we empower children to connect with us in the way that works best for them. That’s not “settling.” That’s not “less than.” That’s real communication, and it deserves respect.

Let’s drop the idea that verbal speech is the gold standard. Let’s celebrate every sign, every gesture, every button push on a speech device, every picture card pointed to with purpose. It all counts.

Because the goal isn’t how a person communicates.The goal is that they do. And we understand them.

What do you think about this post, ALL Communication Is Valid ? Have you seen your child use multiple ways to communicate? Share your story with us below—we’d love to celebrate with you! 🩷💛💚

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With heart,

The NewDay Child Coaching Team

Rachel Lynn: Communication and Swallowing/Feeding Guide 🩷

Amber Michelle: Physical Development Guide 💚

Amanda Rae: Fine Motor, Sensorimotor, Sensory/Feeding Guide 💛

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