Developmental Language Disorder: How Makaton Supports DLD

How Makaton Supports Those with Developmental Language Disorder

For parents and caregivers, watching a child struggle to communicate can be incredibly difficult. When a child has a Developmental Language Disorder (DLD), expressing themselves and understanding others can be a constant challenge. But there are powerful tools available to help, and one of the most effective is the Makaton Communication programme.

Understanding Developmental Language Disorder (DLD)

DLD is a common but often misunderstood condition that affects how children understand and use language. Previously known as Specific Language Impairment, DLD means a child has significant and lasting difficulties with language.

A child with DLD might:

• Talk very little and find it hard to express their thoughts.

• Use language that seems younger than their actual age.

• Struggle to find the right words to say what they mean.

• Have a hard time understanding or remembering what has been said to them.

  
  

These challenges are typically identified and supported by a speech and language therapist (SLT), who plays a vital role in helping children with DLD reach their potential.

How Makaton Bridges the Communication Gap

Makaton is a unique communication approach that combines signs, symbols, and spoken words. It's designed to help children develop their language skills, but for those with DLD, it offers an immediate and effective way to be understood.

Makaton provides a visual pathway to communication that can be used even before a child's spoken language is clear. This is crucial because many children understand far more than they can say. Makaton helps to prevent the frustration that comes from knowing what you want but being unable to express it.

• Signs are used with speech to give a visual clue about what is being said.

• Symbols can be used by those who have limited speech or who prefer not to sign.

  
  

Makaton allows children to communicate meaningfully and effectively, which in turn boosts their confidence, promotes inclusion, and builds their independence.

Using Makaton in Everyday Life

The beauty of Makaton is how flexible it is. You can adapt it to fit an individual's specific needs and use it for a wide range of daily activities.

It can be used for:

• Sharing thoughts, feelings, and choices.

• Singing songs and telling stories.

• Labelling objects and places.

• Participating in games.

  
  

Makaton is increasingly being used in schools to help all students communicate more effectively, creating a more inclusive environment for everyone. I deliver training for multiple Academy Trusts, Primary Schools and Early Years settings.

Ready to start training? Lots of options available. Click HERE for both public and in-house training options. For furth information get in touch!

alimakatontutor@gmail.com Tel: 07837 876254

References and Further Reading:

• RADLD (2024). What is Developmental Language Disorder (DLD)? Available at: radld.org

• Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists (RCSLT). Developmental Language Disorder Overview. Available at: rcslt.org

• NHS (2024). Developmental Language Disorder. Available at: nhs.uk

• The Makaton Charity (2024). About Makaton. Available at: makaton.org

• ICAN (2024). Supporting Children’s Communication. Available at: ican.org.uk

**Disclaimer**

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Any questions or queries please do get in touch - alimakatontutor@gmail.com