Why do we use Makaton?
Total Communication Approaches can be useful when interacting with children with Speech, Language and Communication Needs (SLCN). But what steps can you take to apply a total communication approach?
Makaton is a very useful tool in supporting children with SLCN and is extremely easy to grasp!
But what is Makaton, and why should we use it?
What is Makaton?
Makaton is a communication system that uses signs and symbols. However, unlike other signing systems, these signs and symbols are used in combination with speech! This helps and gives options for people to communicate.
As an easy-to-grasp communication style, it is usable by everyone! The combination of signs, symbols and speech makes it so that everyone has the ability to express themselves.
Makaton is made up of 2 vocabularies. The core vocabulary and the topic-based resource vocabulary. The first is typically essential words and concepts as a basic introduction. The second is a much broader vocabulary that covers more everyday life expressions.
Who uses Makaton?
Makaton has over 100,000 users! Both children and adults use it as their main method of communication or as a tool to support their speech and communication.
The combination of signs, symbols and speech can be a great support for individuals with a range of Speech, Language and Communication Needs (SLCN), not only helping with their expression but also with their confidence in communicating with others.
The family of those with SLCN may also learn it to support their development of Makaton or to help their comprehension of language.
Parents even use the signs and symbols with babies to support their speech and language development! Comprehension often develops before speech, so this system allows younger children to communicate better before they have the speech ability to do so.
What settings can it be used in?
All settings!
Makaton is perfect to support learning in the classroom, to support language development and communication at home – even out and about to make everyday communication easier!
Many communication tasks may be difficult for individuals with SLCN. So, the use of Makaton to support interactions like ordering food, making a purchase or getting a bus ticket can make their lives a bit more plain sailing.
Why should we learn it?
Mass adaption is essential to make communication accessible. As a very graspable method of communication, Makaton is the perfect system for mass adaption!
Whilst it is the case that many of its users do eventually stop needing and naturally stop using them, some will need Makaton their whole lives.
How can Chatterbug help?
To help ensure as many people can learn the system as possible, Chatterbug is running regular Makaton Taster Sessions! These sessions are the first step in your journey. You’ll learn a more in-depth understanding of what it is, who uses it, how to use it and how to move forward with your learning!
You can book yourself onto the course here.
If you have any questions, contact the team on:
Phone: 0113 240 8510 Email: [email protected].