Diary of a Makaton Tutor: Returning to Familiar Faces, Supporting Foster Carers and Finding Connection

One of the things I love most about being a Makaton Tutor is that no two weeks are ever the same. Some weeks are about introducing people to Makaton for the very first time, while others are about returning to familiar faces and watching their confidence continue to grow.

This week was a lovely combination of both. I returned to SWALLOW in Midsomer Norton to deliver Level 2 Makaton training, delivered an online training session for foster carers with Wiltshire Council and made time for another yoga session at the beautiful Old Town Quarry in Weston-super-Mare, where an unexpected reunion made the morning even more special.

Returning to SWALLOW for Level 2 Makaton Training

It was wonderful to be back with the fantastic team at SWALLOW to deliver Level 2 Makaton training.

Having completed Level 1, the group returned full of enthusiasm and ready to continue building their communication skills. One of the joys of returning for the next stage of training is seeing how much confidence participants have gained since we first met.

Level 2 builds on the foundations of Level 1 by introducing new vocabulary and encouraging learners to become more fluent in using Makaton naturally alongside speech.

Throughout the day, participants embraced every activity, supported one another and shared examples of how they had already started using Makaton within their roles.

Seeing learners talk about the positive impact Makaton is already having for the people they support is always one of the most rewarding parts of my job.

Supporting Foster Carers Through Online Training

Alongside face-to-face training, I also delivered an online Makaton session for FOSTERING with Wiltshire Council.

Communication plays such an important role in fostering. For many children and young people, having adults who use clear, consistent and supportive communication strategies can make a significant difference to how safe, understood and confident they feel.

During the session, we explored how Makaton signs and symbols can support everyday routines, emotional understanding, choice making and relationship building.

It was fantastic to see such engagement throughout the session, with participants sharing thoughtful questions and discussing how they could incorporate Makaton into family life and the care they provide. I have a BLOG on this site with further information for Foster Carers supporting children with visual communication support, take a look!

Why Makaton Supports Children and Young People

Makaton is far more than learning signs and symbols—it is about creating opportunities for communication.

Whether supporting children in schools, foster care, supported living or community settings, using signs and symbols alongside speech can help individuals to:

• Understand information more easily.

• Express their thoughts and feelings.

• Reduce frustration and anxiety.

• Build confidence and independence.

• Feel included in everyday conversations.

Small communication changes can make a lasting difference.

A Moment to Pause at Old Town Quarry

Alongside another busy week of training, I returned to yoga at the beautiful Old Town Quarry in Weston-super-Mare.

After the session, I unexpectedly bumped into some former work colleagues. What started as a quick hello turned into coffee, plenty of conversation and the chance to catch up surrounded by such peaceful scenery.

It was a lovely reminder that sometimes the best moments are the ones you don't plan.

Taking time away from work—even when you genuinely love what you do—is so important. Those moments to pause, reconnect with people and enjoy your surroundings help you return feeling refreshed and ready for whatever the next week brings.

Frequently Asked Questions About Level 2 Makaton Training

What do you learn in Level 2 Makaton?

Level 2 builds on the skills developed in Level 1 by introducing additional everyday vocabulary and helping learners become more confident communicating naturally using Makaton.

Who is Level 2 suitable for?

Level 2 is designed for learners who have already completed Level 1 and want to continue developing their practical communication skills.

Can Makaton support foster carers?

Absolutely. Makaton can help foster carers support communication, emotional understanding, routines and relationship building with children and young people who may benefit from additional communication support.

Is online Makaton training interactive?

Yes. Online sessions include practical signing, discussions, activities and opportunities for participants to ask questions and share experiences.

Why is continuing Makaton training important?

Each level builds confidence, expands vocabulary and helps learners develop more natural communication skills that can be applied in everyday life.

Top Tips for Continuing Your Makaton Journey

• Keep using signs alongside speech every day.

• Revisit previous vocabulary regularly.

• Build confidence by practising in real-life situations.

• Share learning with colleagues, friends and family.

• Remember that communication is about connection, not perfection.

  
  

Final Thoughts

This week was another reminder of how rewarding it is to support people on their Makaton journey.

Returning to SWALLOW and seeing participants continue to grow in confidence, working with foster carers committed to creating supportive communication environments, and taking time to reconnect with old colleagues over coffee after yoga all reinforced something important.

Communication isn't just about the words or signs we use—it's about relationships, connection and creating opportunities for people to feel understood.

As always, I'm grateful to everyone I had the privilege of working with this week, and I'm already looking forward to seeing where next week's diary takes me.

Let's Connect

Have you recently completed Level 2 Makaton training, used Makaton in fostering or care, or found a new way to make time for yourself outside of work?

I'd love to hear about your experiences. Feel free to share your story or get in touch if you'd like to find out more about Makaton training for your school, organisation or team.