When I get chatting to people about Makaton, many often respond with “Ooh yes! I know that, it’s Sign Language!!”.
Mr Tumble, Singing Hands and many other talented signers have successfully introduced Makaton to a wide audience through their Tv programs, DVDs and Youtube videos.
There are also lots of signing videos to be found across social media, most which are creative, educational and lots of fun to watch!
It’s important to highlight that Makaton isn’t just about signing, it is actually a multi modal language program that uses a combination of speech, signing and symbols.
Recently, I’ve been looking into different ways symbols can be used to support communication in various settings, to support individuals with learning and communication difficulties.
Symbols often end up the unsung hero, so I wanted to take a moment to point out that symbols can be used alone, or alongside other visual aids, to communicate, or to support speech.
You can also use symbols AND sign together!!
Makaton is a powerful tool for enhancing communication and language development in young children.
By incorporating Makaton, which combines signs, symbols, and speech, into early years settings, educators can create inclusive environments where all children, regardless of their communication abilities, can participate and engage meaningfully.
Makaton supports not only language acquisition but also social interaction, cognitive development, and emotional expression, laying a strong foundation for future learning and communication skills.
Through playful and interactive activities, children learn to use Makaton signs and symbols to express their needs, thoughts, and feelings, developing a sense of confidence and independence in their communication abilities. This approach not only benefits children and adults with communication difficulties but also enriches the learning experience for all individuals, promoting empathy, understanding, and inclusivity from a young age.
How do you incorporate Makaton signs and symbols into your daily routine?
We’d love to hear your thoughts and ideas in the comments below!
Jayde x
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