Unless you are an avid viewer of Mr. Tumble on cBeebies, there is a good chance you’ve never heard of Makaton. No, it’s not some ancient art of self-defence or secret society.

Makaton is a language programme that enables those with learning and/or communication challenges to interact with others; helps integrate them into family life, participate in society, gain independence and, hopefully, fulfil their potential. The programme is designed to provide functional communication and encourage and develop language and literacy skills through the combined use of signs, symbols and speech.

You only have to go back 56 years to 1968 to find its origins. That’s when Margaret Walker, a Speech and Language Therapist working at Botleys Park in the South of England, decided to assess all 1,100 patients at the hospital to gain a better understanding of their communication challenges. 

The Makaton programme also uses facial expression, eye contact and body language to give as much information as possible, replicating ‘typical’ talking which doesn’t just involve speaking. Watch someone talking, they will not just be saying words, they will also be using hand movements or gestures, facial expression, eye contact and body language. All this is communication, and research has shown that signs and gestures are easier to learn than spoken words.

Nationally, Makaton is overseen by the Makaton Charity, which aims “to improve lives by enabling everyone to communicate successfully by using solutions that are effective and appropriate for them”. There is currently a network of over 1,000 licensed Makaton tutors and trainers across the UK delivering training to over 30,000 parents, carers and professionals each year.

Hayley Worth, based in Teignmouth, is a local Makaton tutor who is more than happy to help anyone interested in learning more. She says, “Makaton is such a powerful tool to help children and adults communicate, that otherwise would not have their thoughts, needs and feelings heard. It not only helps people with learning needs but also bridges the gap with those whom English is their second language. It’s a great skill that is easy and fun to learn.”

For those who aren’t sure about committing to courses, Hayley runs ‘Makacafe’ at Pearls Parlour café, 2 Bank Street, Teignmouth, on the first Tuesday of the month between March and December. It’s free and all are welcome to drop in anytime between 5-6.30pm to practise signing, discuss experiences, and meet others who are already on the Makaton journey.  

You can contact Hayley via hayleymakatontutor@gmail.com  

To find Makaton tutors in your local area visit: www.makaton.org

Words: Colin Chatten