Overview

Makaton is a multi modal language programme using speech, signs and symbols.

It provides basic communication and everyday language and literacy skills and is designed to provide a means of communication to individuals who cannot communicate efficiently by speaking. Makaton has been effectively used with individuals who have cognitive impairment, Autism, Down’s syndrome, Specific language impairment, Multisensory impairment and Aquired neurological disorders that have negatively affected the ability to communicate.

Makaton is inclusive and meets a range of needs including babies and people with EAL. It is based on BSL but follows the normal speech pattern as its aim is to develop communication and literacy skills. It is used in over 26 countries.

We offer a range of Five courses and details of each are as follows:

1. Makaton Taster Workshop

Course content:

This is an introductory session to Makaton signs and symbols. It is a basic introductory course and therefore not suitable for anyone who has previously attended Makaton courses. It covers what Makaton is and how it can aid children and young people’s communication. It uses 20 signs and symbols from the Core vocabulary and an additional 10 signs and symbols chosen by the audience.

Course Outcomes:

• To understand what Makaton is and how it can be used to support communication and inclusive practice
• To introduce basic vocabulary through signs and symbols
• To give practical ideas on how to introduce Makaton

Course admin:

• The workshop can be offered as a Whole day / Half day or Twilight session.
• Maximum numbers are 15.

 

2. Makaton Beginners Workshop

Course content:

This workshop overs Makaton core vocabulary stages 1-4 and additional vocabulary and is suitable for schools, Children Centre’s or central locations.

A practical course that supports parent’s understanding of Makaton signs and symbols and how to use them to support communication for children, young people and adults with a range of difficulties.

Course Outcomes:

• To understand what Makaton is and how it can be used to support communication and inclusive practice
• To introduce and practice Core vocabulary (stages 1-4) and additional vocabulary through signs and symbols
• To give clear tips regarding effective signing
• To discussion commonly asked questions regarding Makaton
• Give suggestions about how to start to teach Makaton

Course admin:

• This course runs over Two whole days or Four half days.
• Maximum attendees is 15.
• Attendees are required to attend all sessions.

 

3. Makaton Follow Up Workshop

Course Content: 

Covers Makaton core vocabulary stages 5-8 and additional vocab.

A practical course that supports parent’s understanding of Makaton signs and symbols and how to use them to support communication for children, young people and adults with a range of difficulties.

Course Outcomes: 

• To consolidate previous learning of signs and symbols Stages 1-4 and the Additional Stage
• To learn Signs and symbols for stages 5-8
• To develop confidence in using signs and symbols
• To identify ways of using signs and symbols
• To identify a variety of alternative meanings for the Signs and Symbols that have been learnt
• To identify how Makaton can be used to meet the needs of different users

Course admin:

• This course runs over Two whole days or Four half days.
• Attendees should have already attended the ‘Beginners workshop’.
• Attendees need to attend all sessions.
• Maximum attendees is 15.
• This course runs over Two whole days or Four half days.

 

4. Makaton Enhancement Workshop

Course Content:

A practical workshop suitable for professionals or those who are interested in becoming Makaton tutors, A practical course that supports professionals’ understanding of Makaton signs and symbols and how to use them to support communication for children, young people and adults with a range of difficulties.focussing on:

• Enhancing the participants’ own personal sign and symbol skills and competence
• Developing the participants’ awareness and ability to enhance users’ skills
• Core vocabulary signs and symbols 5-8

Course Outcomes: 

• To consolidate previous learning of signs and symbols for stages 1-4 and Additional Stage
• To teach sign and symbols 5-8
• To further develop participants personal signing skills
• To develop skills in reading back signed and symbolised information
• To increase understanding about the function of Makaton Resource Vocabulary in relation to Core Vocabulary
• To increase awareness of different communication strategies to develop the users’ own communication skills and confidence

Course admin:

• Attendees will have already attended the Beginners / Foundation workshops.
• Attendees may also wish to purchase Core Vocabulary Signs and Symbols books.
• 15 attendees maximum.
• This course runs over Three whole days or Six half days.

 

5. Makaton Foundation Workshop

Course Content:

A practical course that supports professionals’ understanding of Makaton signs and symbols and how to use them to support communication for children, young people and adults with a range of difficulties. Covers Makaton core vocabulary stages 1-4 and Additional Stage.

Course Outcomes:

• To know the history, design and structure of the Makaton Core and Resource Vocabularies
• To be able to use signs and symbols from stages 1-4 and Additional Vocabulary in their daily environment and use techniques for placement, directionality and movement
• To understand the research behind Makaton
• To understand the Makaton symbol design themes
• To have an understanding of the different approaches available to develop the communication skills of a wide range of users

Course admin:

• 15 attendees. maximum
• This course runs over Two whole days or Four half days.

 

Recent course comments:

‘Brilliant course, I enjoyed it alot and would love to do more’.

‘Excellent course, I feel confident in using Makaton in my work place’.

‘Very informative and an excellent tutor’.

‘Please contact me with further training, Thankyou’.

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