Communication is more than words
"My name is Jana, I am 41 years old and have been working for almost 15 years as a certified speech therapist. In my practice I support people of all ages – from children with language development delays to adults with neurological impairments. For many of my clients, sign language is a central part of their expression – but unfortunately not always the key to full participation.
Especially in everyday life – at the doctor’s office, at school or in the supermarket – many of my clients experience that their gestures reach limits. What they want to say often lingers in the air – because the other person does not understand them. This is where the BrightSign Sign Language Translator Glove comes into play – and in my view brings exactly what so many need: a bridge between two languages."
The first use – curiosity meets benefit
I introduced the glove in my practice to explore new ways of augmentative and alternative communication. What convinced me immediately was its simplicity: the glove is easy to put on, fits well and connects with an intuitively usable app. The AI-supported recognition works reliably – even with children or people with motor impairments.
The app translates signs directly into spoken language or text – depending on the setting. More than 40 languages and different voices are available. This way, each person can choose the type of communication that suits them best.
What has changed in therapy
In speech therapy, it is not only about “learning” language, but about enabling participation through expression. I have seen how especially children with hearing impairments or autism spectrum disorder suddenly became visible and audible through the glove – to their environment, their family, and other children.
One boy, 8 years old, who previously communicated exclusively with signs, was able to “join in” for the first time at a parents’ evening through the BrightSign Glove. Not through an interpreter, but through his own movement, which was translated into speech. The parents were deeply moved – and so was I.
The glove as a complement – not a replacement
It is important for me to emphasize: the BrightSign Glove does not replace sign language competence and certainly not interpreters. But it is a powerful tool for everyday life, especially when spontaneous communication is needed. It strengthens independence and enables direct interaction – even where communication barriers would otherwise remain.
It has also proven itself in group sessions: children feel encouraged to show themselves. Adults experience that they are “heard” in their own language. And relatives gain a new tool to communicate on equal terms.
My conclusion: Inclusive communication begins with listening – and technology can help
For me as a speech therapist, the BrightSign Sign Language Translator Glove is not a substitute for speech therapy work – but an invaluable building block on the way to more participation. I wish for such innovations to be introduced in schools, clinics, counseling centers and care facilities. They are not just technical solutions – they are an expression of a human right: to be understood."
Learn more about this inclusive communication tool:
BrightSign Sign Language Translator Glove
