Getting started with Makaton signing

Why use Makaton?

Research has shown that signs and gestures are easier to learn than spoken words. Helping your child to learn some signs can stop them getting frustrated before they are able to talk.

• Signing can help promote verbal stimulation. The hand movement part of the brain is very close to the vocalisation part and can help develop verbal communication.
• Signs can help children with unclear speech communicate their message successfully.
• Using signs and gestures with your child can help your child understand what you are saying because you are giving them extra visual clues alongside the words.

Top Tips

• Try to gain your child’s attention.
• Be face to face, at your child’s height if possible.
• Start by choosing one or two signs that are relevant to your child’s daily routine and build up.
• For friends and family members such as brothers and sisters, sign the first letter of their name as you say their name (see finger spelling chart).
• Always speak as you sign. Try to keep your language simple and sign the words you know.
• Remember to use the signs in all different contexts, for example as you play with your child, during the daily routine, when you are out and about and as you look at books together.
• Repeat the signs as much as possible.
• Teach signs to other family members or caregivers – your child will learn to use signs more quickly and effectively if they are immersed in a signing environment.
• Don’t worry if your child doesn’t immediately copy or start to use the signs themselves – it will take time.
• When your child begins to sign their signs may not be very accurate at first. Respond positively to their signing attempts but remember to repeat back to them the word and sign that they are trying so they can see how to accurately make the sign.