Makaton is a language programme using signs and symbols to help people communicate, and you may already have seen it without realising, on programmes like Something Special with Mr Tumble. This guide explains what Makaton is, who it’s for and how it can support your child’s communication development.
What is Makaton?
Makaton is a unique language programme that uses speech alongside signs (using your hands) and symbols (pictures) to communicate. It was developed in the UK in the 1970s by speech and language therapist Margaret Walker, hence the name (MAr-garet + her colleagues KAthy johnsTON = Makaton).
Makaton always uses speech alongside signs and symbols, it’s not a silent system. The idea is that using multiple channels of communication simultaneously makes it easier to understand and express language, particularly for people whose verbal communication is limited or developing.
Who uses Makaton?
Makaton is used by children and adults who have difficulty communicating through speech alone. This includes people with:
- Autism spectrum conditions
- Down syndrome
- Cerebral palsy
- Developmental language disorder
- Global developmental delay
- Acquired communication difficulties
Many typically developing children also benefit from Makaton, research suggests that using signs alongside speech can support vocabulary development in young children, even those without communication difficulties. You may have seen Makaton used on CBeebies’ Something Special, it’s genuinely accessible to anyone.
Does Makaton stop children developing speech?
This is the most common concern parents have, and the answer, supported by a strong evidence base, is no. Using signs alongside speech does not reduce a child’s motivation to develop verbal communication. In fact, the opposite is often true: giving a child a successful means of communication reduces frustration, builds confidence and creates a better foundation for speech development.
At Speech Stuff, we use Makaton as part of our total communication approach, supporting every channel of communication rather than insisting on speech-only interaction.
Many children who use Makaton as a communication bridge go on to develop spoken language alongside or following their use of signs. Signs naturally drop away as speech becomes the more efficient route, they’re not a replacement, they’re a scaffold.
How to get started with Makaton
The simplest starting point is the Makaton Charity website (makaton.org), which has free resources, sign tutorials and training information. Something Special on BBC iPlayer is also a surprisingly good introduction for both children and parents.
For children who have significant communication difficulties, we’d recommend formal Makaton training alongside SLT input, rather than learning signs independently and hoping they stick. A speech therapist can advise on which signs to prioritise for your child’s specific needs and how to embed them into daily routines.
Makaton vs other communication approaches
Makaton is one of several signing and symbol systems available in the UK. Others include Signalong, Widget Symbols and Boardmaker. Each has strengths and the right choice depends on your child’s needs and their learning environment.
If you’re not sure which approach is right for your child, an SLT assessment will help identify the most appropriate communication support, whether that’s Makaton, a high-tech device, or a combination. Book a free call and we’ll talk you through the options.