Makaton and signing as an alternative communication to speech.
Our experience with signing was brief and limited, but I recall the difficulty in finding reliable resources. Below are a few resources to get you started, but I recommend you check out: @makatonwithlucinda and @makaton on instagram. Don't forget us while you are there @hello_autism_resources!
*If you're back from a previous visit and are looking for the tracker PDF for those first stage words, you can still find it here.
*If you're back from a previous visit and are looking for the tracker PDF for those first stage words, you can still find it here.
What is Makaton?
(This description is taken from the PDF file "Sign Language for Beginners" which can be downloaded from learnsignlanguage here. ~ Note, this is a guide and is not specific to Makaton. Makaton is a system of communication that uses a vocabulary of “key word” manual signs and gestures to support speech, as well as graphic symbols to support the written word. It is used by and with people who have communication, language or learning difficulties.
This includes people with articulation problems (for example, people with cerebral palsy); and people with cognitive impairments which might be associated with conditions such as autism or Down’s syndrome, and their families, colleagues and carers. It can be used to help the development of speech and language in children, or by adults as a means of functional communication for everyday use. Communication using Makaton involves speaking (when possible) while concurrently signing key words. The sign vocabulary is taken from the local Deaf sign language (with some additional ‘natural gestures’), beginning with a ‘core’ list of important words. However, the grammar generally follows the spoken language rather than the sign language. For more, head over to Makaton.org. This dedicated charity has a wealth of information and some (affordable) resources to purchase. Particularly when you have a specific need, such as attending a wedding. For BSL resources, when advancing a little perhaps, you can check out School of Sign Language and British Sign .
Don't Forget:
Baby Sign - DVDs, Courses or Books... they might not be very advanced, but are a good starting point. The Library - Your local library may have some rentals available. If your child is still young enough, look into the local classes in your area for baby signing which usually use Makaton in a naturalistic and friendly setting. |
Where can I find FREE Makaton Resources?
The Makaton Charity's introductory 'All About Me' booklet serves as a helpful and informative beginners guide for parents. It's available here via The Communication Trust. And the free resources from Makaton.org are all located here. If you're British, or watch any British television, and have children you will no doubt have heard of Mr. Tumble. Mr. Tumble is a really good starting point when you want to introduce signing to your child. Learn more about Makaton and Mr Tumble over at the CBeebies website here. Following on from that, YouTube has a flurry of resources which can cater to the stage your child is.
Total Communication Gloucestershire is an amazing resource base. I first came across this many years ago and it was one of the best, having just checked it out again now, it is even better. And all free! Inclusive Communication Essex is another brilliant resource. The video selection and site is fantastic. |