Makaton

Makaton

Makaton is a method of communication using signs and symbols and is often used as a communication process for those with learning difficulties.

What Is Makaton?

Makaton was first developed in the UK in the 1970’s by a speech and language therapist and was devised as a way of increasing the ability to communicate in those who live with learning difficulties, such as those living with Autism and those with cognitive impairment. It is now very commonly taught to both those with learning difficulties and those without. Makaton is now being used in over 40 countries around the world and provides an excellent way of improving global communications between individuals.

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How Is It Different To British Sign Language?

Makaton is a much simpler form of communication and uses common vocabulary that is used in everyday speech. It also incorporates the use of picture cards and ties in facial expressions with the word to produce more content in the shortest form.

Unlike British Sign Language, Makaton uses speech as well as actions and symbols. This encourages children to learn many different forms of communication which has shown good results in academic and social achievement by those who use it. It has even been proven to increase literacy and numeracy skills and encourages development of visual, recognition and identification skills.

As oral communication takes place, the person using Makaton identifies the key words and expresses these with gestures or signs. Symbols printed on cards are also used where appropriate and applicable.

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Can Anyone Use Makaton?

Almost anyone will be able to learn and use Makaton as a communication technique as it uses different mediums of conveying information. Children enjoy learning and using it because it involves eyes, hands, pictures and gestures that can help them explain what they would like to communicate.

As babies develop, they often use signs and gestures to communicate what they want, such as a drink from the fridge, and most parents also use this method without realising it. For example, many parents and carers symbolise a drink using a hand to mouth action, or a spoon to mouth action when encouraging children to eat for themselves. Makaton is merely an extension of this, with specific actions, signs and symbols for each activity.

Parents and children can learn Makaton together as it can be fun, provide an excellent opportunity to spend time together and encourage development of the child and parent communication abilities.

Where Do You Learn Makaton?

Makaton can be learned from those who already use it and are competent and familiar with it, by attending a workshop or course or by using teach it yourself methods such as from DVD’s. When learning Makaton, it is best to try and use it as much as possible, even when communicating with those who do not use it or want to learn it. As with most things, practice makes perfect.

Makaton was introduced as a technique to help those with learning difficulties communicate. It uses a variety of actions, symbols, gestures, facial expressions and speech, identifying key words in common usage, to convey information effectively And simply.

The Next Step

Now that you have read through the advice above, you might want to put it into practice. Our Sign Language Learning Path Builder lets you creates a personalised learning roadmap based on your starting point, goals, and available time. Try it now →