"Creating An Inclusive Environment With Makaton."

Inclusion is about ensuring everyone has the opportunity to communicate, participate, and feel valued. For individuals with learning or communication difficulties, expressing their thoughts and needs can be challenging. This is where Makaton plays a vital role. By combining speech with signs and symbols, Makaton provides a multi-modal approach to communication, making it easier for individuals to understand and be understood.

What is Makaton?

Makaton is a communication programme that uses a combination of signs, symbols, and speech to aid communication. It is designed to support individuals with speech, language, and communication needs (SLCN) and is widely used in educational settings, healthcare, and within the community. Unlike sign language, which is a standalone language, Makaton works alongside spoken language to reinforce meaning.

The Importance of an Inclusive Environment

An inclusive environment is one where everyone, regardless of ability, feels welcomed and able to participate fully. Communication is a fundamental aspect of inclusion, and without accessible ways to express oneself, individuals can feel isolated and excluded. By integrating Makaton into everyday interactions, we can bridge communication gaps and promote inclusivity.

How to Create an Inclusive Environment Using Makaton

1. Learn and Use Makaton Regularly

The first step to creating an inclusive environment with Makaton is learning key signs and symbols. Start with common words and phrases such as greetings, emotions, and essential requests (e.g., "hello," "thank you," "help"). Regular use helps embed Makaton into daily communication.

2. Encourage Staff and Peers to Learn Makaton

Training staff, teachers, and peers in Makaton fosters an inclusive culture. Workshops, online courses, and resources from organisations like The Makaton Charity can help facilitate learning. When everyone uses Makaton, individuals with communication difficulties feel more comfortable and included.

3. Integrate Makaton into Signage and Visual Aids

Using Makaton symbols on signage, instructions, and labels can make environments more accessible. Schools, workplaces, and public spaces can benefit from clear, visual communication that supports those who rely on symbols for understanding.

4. Use Makaton in Group Activities

Incorporating Makaton into group activities, such as storytelling, music, and play, encourages inclusive participation. Singing songs with Makaton signs, using symbols in storytelling, and engaging in signed conversations make communication more interactive and enjoyable.

5. Promote a Positive and Supportive Atmosphere

Encouraging and celebrating the use of Makaton creates an accepting environment. Simple acts such as praising someone for using Makaton or being patient with communication efforts help foster a culture of inclusion and respect.

The Benefits of Makaton in an Inclusive Setting

• Enhanced Communication – Makaton supports individuals who struggle with verbal communication, reducing frustration and misunderstandings.

• Greater Independence – Users can express their needs and make choices, leading to increased confidence and autonomy.

• Stronger Relationships – Inclusive communication strengthens relationships by allowing meaningful interactions.

• Improved Learning and Engagement – Visual and kinaesthetic learning through Makaton enhances memory retention and understanding.

  
  

Final Thoughts

Creating an inclusive environment with Makaton is about making communication accessible for everyone. By learning and using Makaton, encouraging others to do the same, and integrating it into daily interactions, we can build a world where everyone has a voice. Whether in schools, workplaces, or public spaces, embracing Makaton is a step towards true inclusion.

Would you like to learn more? Explore Makaton resources and start making a difference today! Browse my range of courses HERE

References and Further Reading:

• The Makaton Charity. What is Makaton? makaton.org

• Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists. Inclusive Communication Guidance. rcslt.org

• Communication Matters. About AAC and Inclusive Communication. communicationmatters.org.uk

• NHS. Supporting People with Communication Difficulties. nhs.uk

• Speech and Language UK. Supporting Communication and Inclusion in Education. speechandlanguage.org.uk

Two people using their hands to create signs to communicate with one another

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