Makaton

Makaton is a way to help people communicate and be understood.

Makaton uses signs, symbols and talking.

The signs and symbols can help people if they do not talk or if they find it difficult to talk.

People can choose if they want to use the signs or symbols, or both.

People can also choose if they want to say the words.

Some people stop using the signs or symbols when they start to use more words.

There are over 1 million people who use Makaton.

It helps adults and children who have a learning disability or who find it difficult to communicate.

It also helps people who support people with a learning disability.  For example:

• family members
• carers
• friends
• people who work in schools
• people who work in health.

You will see Makaton in schools.

It helps all children to get better at reading, writing and talking.

It helps children to learn, play with and talk to each other, even if they find it difficult to talk.

You will see Makaton in places like hospitals, courts and libraries.  

It helps people to find their way around.

In the children's TV programme Something Special, Mr Tumble and his friends use Makaton.

They try to get everyone to join in with their songs and games to help them learn some Makaton signs and symbols.

• Use the sign each time you say the word.  

  For example eat or drink.

• Use short sentences with easy words.

• Try to look at the eyes of the person you are talking to.

• Use your face to help show what you mean.

  For example, sad, happy.

• You can help someone move their hand to make the sign.

• If someone tries to sign, use the sign for good and say 'Well done'.

• Try to get friends and family to use the signs.

You can find some Makaton signs and symbols on this page of our website.

If you want to learn Makaton or find out more about Makaton, go to the Makaton Charity website.