Makaton for Emotional Support: Supporting Anxiety in Children and Adults

Anxiety affects people of all ages. For both children and adults, communicating worries, fears, or overwhelming feelings can be challenging — especially for those with speech, language, or communication needs (SLCN). My own daughter has Generalised Anxiety Disorder and Functional Neurological Disorder, I've seen first hand the impact anxiety can have. Makaton can really help support times of increased stress and anxiety, for some people who could previously communicate verbally, they may lose this during these times, so having alternative ways to effectively communicate can make a huge difference to that persons emotional and mental health and wellbeing.

Makaton, a communication programme combining signs, symbols, and speech, offers a practical way to give both children and adults a voice. By using Makaton, individuals can express anxiety, emotions, and needs more clearly, reducing stress and fostering understanding.

What Is Makaton?

Makaton is a communication programme that combines:

• Signs – hand gestures representing words or concepts

• Symbols – visual representations of key words

• Speech – spoken words paired with signs and symbols

It is widely used in homes, schools, therapy sessions, and healthcare settings.

Importantly, Makaton supports verbal communication and does not replace speech.

How Makaton Helps Support Anxiety

1. Gives a Voice to Those Who Struggle to Speak

Anxiety can make verbal communication more difficult. Using Makaton signs like:

• worried

• scared

• help

• stop

• sad

allows children and adults to express themselves clearly when words alone may fail.

2. Reduces Frustration and Overwhelm

Not being understood can amplify anxiety. Makaton provides a clear communication pathway, preventing misunderstandings and reducing stress for both children and adults.

3. Encourages Emotional Awareness

Makaton helps individuals recognise, label, and communicate feelings, supporting emotional regulation. Signs for emotions, feelings, or calming prompts (wait, help, happy) empower people to manage anxious moments effectively.

4. Builds Confidence and Independence

Being able to communicate worries and needs fosters confidence, self-advocacy, and a sense of control, which are essential for managing anxiety at home, school, or work.

Practical Ways to Use Makaton for Anxiety

At Home

• Model signs when discussing emotions: “I can see you’re worried” + sign for worried

• Create emotion boards with Makaton symbols for children and adults alike

• Encourage the use of signs instead of reactive behaviours when anxious

In Schools and Workplaces

• Introduce key Makaton signs for expressing feelings, needs, and stress

• Use Makaton during transitions, stressful tasks, or meetings

• Train peers, staff, and colleagues in basic signs to foster understanding

In Therapy or Support Sessions

• Pair Makaton signs with coping strategies or mindfulness techniques

• Reinforce emotion recognition and communication through structured exercises or role-play

Real-Life Benefits

When using Makaton to express anxiety it can help Children and adults

• Communicate worries and needs

• Reduce anxiety-related behaviours or stress responses

• Greater participation in social, educational, or workplace activities

• Increase their emotional awareness and regulation

  
  

By giving individuals a voice through Makaton, we help them feel supported, understood, and empowered — even in moments of heightened anxiety.

Final Thoughts... Integrating Makaton Into Anxiety Support

Makaton is not a replacement for therapeutic interventions but acts as a powerful complement. Incorporating it into daily routines, educational settings, or therapy sessions allows both children and adults to communicate effectively, reduce stress, and build confidence.

Supporting anxiety with Makaton ensures that everyone, regardless of age or ability, has the tools to express themselves, feel heard, and stay connected.