The Importance of Makaton Training and Continuous Learning
Updated: Aug 27
Attending My Own Makaton CPD and Tutor Revision Session
As Makaton continues to evolve, ongoing training and revision are essential for tutors to remain confident, accurate, and up to date. During my tutor revision session, I spent time revisiting signs and symbols, refreshing core knowledge, and learning new vocabulary updates. These sessions are incredibly valuable—not only for maintaining consistency in delivery but also for ensuring the training I provide reflects current best practices.
Being able to revisit signs, practise symbol recognition, and discuss real-life communication scenarios with other tutors is always inspiring. It reinforces how important ongoing professional development is within the world of total communication.
Why Continuing Professional Development Matters in Makaton
CPD is an important part of maintaining high-quality Makaton practice. Communication approaches develop over time, and staying updated ensures that tutors and practitioners continue delivering accurate, meaningful, and inclusive support. Keeping skills refreshed helps tutors to:
Deliver training confidently and consistently
Stay updated with new signs and symbols
Share current best practices with organisations
Continue creating inclusive communication environments
Support learners more effectively in real-life situations
As tutors, we encourage others to keep practising and embedding Makaton daily—and it’s just as important that we model that commitment ourselves.
Delivering Another Online Makaton Session for Achieve Together
Alongside my own learning, I also delivered another online Makaton training session for staff at Achieve Together. Online learning continues to provide fantastic opportunities for teams to access training flexibly while still engaging in meaningful discussions, activities, and practical learning.
It’s always encouraging to work with professionals who are passionate about improving communication and creating more inclusive environments for the people they support. Sessions like these demonstrate how Makaton can strengthen understanding, reduce communication barriers, and build confidence for both staff and service users.
Frequently Asked Questions About Makaton Training
What is Makaton?
Makaton is a unique communication programme that uses signs, symbols, and speech to support communication and language development.
Who can benefit from Makaton?
Makaton can support children and adults with communication difficulties, but it also benefits wider groups by encouraging inclusive communication and supporting understanding for everyone.
Do you need previous experience to attend training?
No previous experience is needed. Makaton training is designed to be accessible for beginners as well as professionals looking to build their existing skills.
Why is embedding Makaton important?
Embedding Makaton into everyday routines helps communication become more natural, consistent, and meaningful. Regular use supports understanding, confidence, and inclusion.
Can Makaton training be delivered online?
Yes. Online Makaton training sessions can be highly interactive and flexible, allowing teams and organisations to access learning from different locations.
Top Tips for Keeping Makaton Skills Fresh
Practise signs regularly in everyday situations.
Use symbols alongside spoken language where possible.
Attend revision and CPD sessions to stay updated.
Learn little and often rather than all at once.
Build confidence through repetition and real-life use.
The Role of Makaton in Inclusive Communication
Makaton plays a crucial role in fostering inclusive communication. By integrating signs and symbols into daily interactions, we can create environments where everyone feels understood and valued. This approach not only aids those with communication difficulties but also enriches the experiences of everyone involved.
Enhancing Communication Skills
Using Makaton enhances communication skills across various settings. It encourages individuals to express themselves more clearly and effectively. This is particularly beneficial in educational and healthcare environments, where clear communication is vital for success and well-being.
Building Relationships
Makaton helps build stronger relationships. When we use signs and symbols, we create a shared language that fosters connection. This is especially important in diverse settings, where individuals may have different communication needs. By embracing Makaton, we can bridge gaps and enhance understanding.
Empowering Individuals
Makaton empowers individuals by giving them tools to communicate. This empowerment leads to increased confidence and independence. When people can express their needs and feelings, they are more likely to engage fully in their environments.
Final Thoughts
This week was a fantastic reminder that learning is ongoing for everyone—whether you are just beginning your Makaton journey or delivering training as a tutor. Attending my own CPD and revision sessions allows me to continue growing professionally while ensuring I can provide the best possible support to the schools, organisations, and teams I work with.
Communication is always evolving, and investing in continuous learning helps us create more inclusive environments for everyone.
Let’s Connect
Have you recently attended Makaton training or a CPD session? How do you keep your signs and symbols fresh in everyday practice? I’d love to hear about your experiences and favourite ways to embed Makaton into daily communication.
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