Makaton is a unique language program that uses speech, signs, and symbols to enable people with disabilities or learning disabilities to communicate. It supports the development of essential communication skills such as attention, listening, comprehension, memory, recall, and organization of language and expression. Makaton is designed to support the development of spoken language, and it is based on the gestures used in British Sign Language (BSL) . However, unlike BSL, Makaton signs are used in conjunction with speech at all times and in English grammatical word order. Makaton symbols and signs are matched to all the concepts in the two vocabularies to be used with speech, the written word, or on their own. Makaton is extremely flexible as it can be personalized to the individuals needs and used at a level that is suitable for them.
Makaton has been used with individuals who have cognitive impairments, autism, Down syndrome, specific language impairment, multisensory impairment, and acquired neurological disorders that have negatively affected the ability to communicate, including stroke survivors and people with dementia. Makaton transforms the lives of people with communication difficulties by giving them a way to express themselves independently, which eases frustration and gives people confidence and independence. Makaton can support individuals with no speech, unclear speech, or those who are reluctant to communicate. It can reduce frustration, create choice, and facilitate communication.
Makaton is beneficial for children with English as an additional language (EAL) as a way to help those children develop their spoken English skills. Makaton is also regularly used in mainstream schools to support all children to develop communication, language, and literacy skills. It supports integration as children with and without language difficulties can communicate, learn, and play together more easily. Makaton symbols are also widely used in public buildings such as schools, hospitals, courts, and libraries to help people find their way around.
