Makaton

What is Makaton, and how do we use it at Kingsbury?

Makaton is a unique communication programme that uses symbols (pictures), signs (gestures) and speech to enable people to communicate. It supports the development of essential communication skills such as attention and listening, comprehension, memory, recall and organisation of language and expression.

Here at Kingsbury, Makaton signing is used throughout the day to communicate keywords for transitions, social communication, giving instructions, through songs and stories and much more. We also encourage the learning of new signs through our ‘sign of the week’. This is posted here on the website each week, so check it out and learn along with us at home. 

Makaton signs are used, always alongside speech, to support children to understand the spoken word.  This helps provide extra clues about what someone is saying. Using signs can help people who have no speech or whose speech is unclear. Signs are very useful for children who are visual learners and helps them to develop and expand their vocabulary skills.

For children who are visually impaired “on body signs” may be used.  This means that the adult physically makes the sign on the child’s body as they speak to develop the child’s comprehension skills.
 

Being able to communicate is one of the most important skills we need in life. Almost everything we do involves communication; everyday tasks such as learning at school, asking for food and drink, sorting out problems, making friends and having fun. These all rely on our ability to communicate with each other. For those who have experienced the frustration of being unable to communicate meaningfully or effectively, Makaton really can help. Makaton takes away that frustration and enables individuals to connect with other people and the world around them. This opens up all kinds of possibilities.

There are courses available for families and carers through our Speech & Language service. If you are interested please ask your class teacher to refer you to our communication team for further information.