Makaton uses signs and symbols to help people communicate.  It is designed to support the development of spoken language.

Makaton signs are based on the gestures used in BSL (British Sign Language) – the language of the Deaf Community).  However, unlike BSL, Makaton signs are used in conjunction with speech at all times and in English grammatical word order.

With Makaton, children and adults can communicate using signs and symbols.  Many people then drop the signs or symbols naturally at their own pace, as they develop speech.  Makaton is extremely flexible as it can be personalised to the individual’s needs and used at a level that is suitable for them.