Makaton in early years

Being able to communicate is one of the most important skills we need in life.

What is Makaton?

Makaton is a language programme using signs and symbols to help people communicate.

It is designed to support spoken language and the signs and symbols are used with speech, in spoken word order.

Why do we need it?

Using signs can help people who have no speech or whose speech is unclear. Using symbols can help people who have limited speech and those who cannot, or prefer not to sign.

With Makaton, children and adults can communicate straight away using signs and symbols. Many people then drop the signs or symbols naturally at their own pace, as they develop speech.

Almost everything we do involves communication:

• Learning at school
• Asking for food and drink
• Sorting out problems
• Making friends and having fun.

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.

“Makaton is changing our lives so much. It’s giving my little boy his voice and I’m so happy we discovered it” – Carly, Parent

How can we use it?

Makaton is extremely flexible as it can be personalised to an individual’s needs and used at a level suitable for them.

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 public buildings.

​​Today over a million children and adults use Makaton symbols and signs. Most people start using Makaton as children then naturally stop using the signs and symbols as they no longer need them. However, some people will need to use Makaton for their whole lives.

“As a Special Needs teacher, it fills me with delight when a child who is pre-verbal uses a Makaton sign to communicate.” – Jayne, Teacher

The Makaton Charity can help

The Makaton Charity exists to ensure that everyone living with learning or communication difficulties has the tools and resources they need to communicate. Our nationwide network of over 1,000 licensed Makaton Tutors and Trainers across the UK deliver training to over 30,000 parents, carers and professionals each year.

Our wide range of printed and electronic resources extends from nursery rhyme DVDs to vocabulary books covering a wide range of subjects. Our vision is a world in which all people with learning or communication difficulties are able to communicate, participate and achieve their potential.