What is Makaton?
Makaton is a language programme made up of symbols and signs that accompany speech, and is shared with young children to support early speech and language development.
Research shows us that using gestures and signs when we are talking and singing helps children with their understanding and to learn new words.
Makaton can be used whether your child has delayed speech or not – Makaton is for everyone!
Benefits of using Makaton:
- It can help your child with expressing their wants and needs: this can reduce frustrations when your child begins to understand their wants, but cannot yet express themselves through speech
- It can help your child’s understanding of what you’re saying to them: this can reduce frustration or confusion if your child is very young or has delayed language and communication skills
Top tips:
- Start early: signing can start being used with your baby as you talk and sing to them – this encourages them to look at you and follow your gestures
- Start simple: it is important to start off with simple signs that are appropriate for your child and can be used in various scenarios, such as – more, help, drink, biscuit, cuddle etc.
- Face to face: when signing, place yourself face to face with your child so they can see your facial expressions and signs clearly
- Use signs to compliment your spoken words: for example, if you want your child to put their coat on, you can say ‘coat on’ along with using the signs
- Be consistent: this will allow your child to learn and use it quickly – you will be surprised at how fast they pick up the signs and therefore how they will find it easier to communicate with you
- For young children: it might be a nice idea to take your child’s hands and assist them making the sign – it is very important to repeat the signs over and over to support their learning and understanding
