Makaton

CBeebies Grown-ups: The Benefits of Makaton for your child

Justin from Something Special explains how Makaton is beneficial for children of all ages and abilities. We talked to some parents of children who use Makaton, and they told us how it has helped them communicate. A speech therapist gives tips for parents on how to start introducing your little one to signing.

Cbeebies: What is Makaton?

Makaton is a unique language programme that uses symbols, signs 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.

Talking does not just involve speaking. Watch someone talking, they will not just be saying words but they will also be using hand movements or gestures, facial expression, eye contact and body language (posture and movement). All this is communication.

Makaton uses speech with signs (gestures) and symbols (pictures) to help people communicate. We also use facial expression, eye contact and body language to give as much information as possible

Last year we taught the children Makaton signs for daily routines and activities.