Diary Of A Makaton Tutor: Supporting Families and Advancing Skills Through Makaton

A week of meaningful connections and deeper learning

This week has been a powerful mix of heartfelt work and advanced learning, highlighting both the emotional impact of Makaton and the progression of skills as learners continue their journey.

From supporting a charity working with children and families, to delivering a rare Level 3 workshop, it’s been a week that truly reflects the depth and versatility of Makaton.

📝 This Week in My Diary

This week, I had the privilege of delivering in-person Makaton training to the team at the Jessie May Trust. They provide incredible support to children with life-limiting conditions and their families, and it was an honour to work alongside such a dedicated and compassionate group of professionals.

During the session, we explored how Makaton can support communication in sensitive and emotional contexts—helping children express their needs, preferences, and feelings, while also supporting families during incredibly challenging times. It was a truly meaningful experience, and a reminder of how important accessible communication is in all areas of care.

I also delivered a public Level 3 Makaton workshop, which is something I don’t run very often. These sessions are always special, as learners are usually continuing their journey and building on strong foundations. We had a special guest on our course 'Ocho' an assistance dog for award winning nurse Chloe, he has completed levels 1 and 2 previously, such a good boy! There were lots of treats and pats on offer, he's a firm favourite on the public courses!

In this Level 3 training, learners began developing their skills in translation and interpretation, which is a big step forward. We explored how to move from signing individual words to creating more fluid, meaningful communication.

There was also a big focus on expanding vocabulary, with learners being introduced to a wide range of new signs—including colours and more descriptive language. It’s always amazing to see that moment when everything starts to come together and learners grow in confidence.

✋ Signs of the Week

This week’s signs reflect both emotional connection and expanding vocabulary:

1. Colour (e.g. red, blue, yellow)

Learning colours opens up more descriptive communication and supports both education and everyday conversation.

2. Family

A meaningful sign, especially in sessions focused on supporting children and their loved ones.

3. Feelings

Important signs for emotional expression, helping individuals communicate how they are feeling.

These signs support both practical communication and deeper connection.

💡 Tips for Progressing with Makaton

If you’re moving beyond the basics, here are some useful tips:

• Focus on flow, not just individual signs – think about how signs work together

• Practice translation – try turning simple sentences into Makaton-supported communication

• Expand your vocabulary gradually – don’t rush, build confidence step by step

• Keep revisiting core signs – strong foundations make advanced learning easier

  
  

🌱 Reflection

This week really highlighted the emotional depth and progression within Makaton.

Working with the Jessie May Trust was a powerful reminder of how vital communication is, especially in sensitive and complex situations. Makaton provides a way to connect, understand, and support—not just practically, but emotionally too.

The Level 3 workshop, on the other hand, showed the journey of learners as they grow in skill and confidence. Seeing that progression is always incredibly rewarding.

👉 Try This This Week

Take a simple sentence and try to translate it into Makaton-supported communication.

For example: “I feel happy when I'm with my family” "The grass is green"

Focus on key words like happy and family, and practise signing them together.

💬 Let’s Connect

Are you on your Makaton journey—just starting out or progressing through the levels?

I’d love to hear about your experience. Share in the comments and follow along for more weekly stories, tips, and insights from my journey as a Makaton Tutor.