This Scribble was scribbled by Selma Yorganci (Ambassador of First Impressions at TCP)

Makaton is a language programme that is supported by signs (gestures) and symbols (pictures) during speech to help people communicate. The sign and symbols are used to support the individual’s speech in spoken word order. Makaton sign language is used to support certain key features of an individual’s understanding.

Makaton is a key element in helping decrease frustration amongst individuals who are unable to communicate meaningfully or effectively, as it decreases frustration by opening a new path to communication by using signs and symbols. Signs can help people who have no speech or unclear speech, and using symbols will help people who have limited speech or prefer not to sign.

Each Makaton programme is personalised according to the individual’s own unique needs at a level most suitable for them, therefore, it is important to determine the level of language and understanding to be able to plan the Makaton programme. It can be used to:

  • Share thoughts, choices and emotions
  • Label real objects, pictures, photos and places
  • Take part in games and songs
  • Listen to, read and tell stories
  • Create recipes, menus and shopping lists
  • Write letters and messages
  • Help people find their way around the public buildings

 

https://www.makaton.org

One of the most important elements with the Makaton language programme is being consistent with the signing. Even if an individual does not show any interest in signing back, it will still increase their understanding by the repetition of the sign, which will then lead to an increase of their understanding and communication.

 

As we have mentioned above, we now all know that Makaton is a language programme that uses signs (gestures) and symbols (pictures) to help people communicate. It is also important to use your facial expressions, make eye contact, and use as much body language as you can to help increase the individual’s understanding.

Research has shown that signs and gestures are easier to learn than spoken words (https://www.makaton.org). If you take a moment to think about it, you will realise that this actually makes sense. For example, think of a baby; they use their gestures (pointing to a toy, leading parent from the hand) to communicate.

Makaton is not only taught to children and adults with learning or communication difficulties. It has also been added to the curriculum in mainstream schools to help support and develop communication, language, and literacy skills of all children. It is also found to be very effective when teaching people who are learning English as their second language.

Makaton has become so common and widely used within every environment (courts, schools, hospitals etc) that we are not even aware we are using it within our daily lives. So we could actually say that we are all somehow gifted with such a talent!

TOP TIPS:

  • Make it fun! Use as much of your creativity as you can to engage the individual. Take into account their interests!
  • Use signs and symbols as much as you can.
  • Don’t forget to speak while signing.
  • Never give up! The beginning is always the hardest, but the reward at the end is priceless!

Now we could all say, “Signs do make sense!”