Makaton

Makaton is a communication language often used to support speech development. It uses signs and symbols to help people communicate. Today, over 100,000 children and adults use Makaton - it’s the leading language program in the UK for those with learning or communication difficulties, and everyone who shares their lives.


How does Makaton work?

We naturally use gestures as part of our daily communication without even realising it. The Makaton signs are based on simplified gestures used in British Sign Language, but differently, the Makaton signs are used in conjunction with speech. This means that often children and adults using Makaton will drop the signs and symbols naturally at their own pace as they develop speech. As a result, it’s a really flexible tool as it can be personalised to an individual’s needs and used at a level most suitable to them.


A few top tips for signing with your child:

Make sure you always speak when you sign – this can help to promote speech development.

Face your child so that they can see your hands, the signs and your facial expressions.

Use clear, short sentences and use the sign or symbol for the important word in the sentence.

Guide your child’s hands so they can feel what it’s like to perform the sign.

Give your child lots of opportunities to practise the signs – try to work them into your daily routine.

How can you learn Makaton?

TheMakaton Charityis resonsible for developing and sharing the Makaton Language Programme. They provide:

Training for parents, carers and professionals

A wide range of resources and information to help learn Makaton

The Makaton Charity licenses over 1,2000 tutors across the UK who train ~20,000 people each year. Many schools, NHS Trusts and local SEND offices run Makaton ‘taster’ sessions as well, so do search your relevant local offer.