"Unlocking Communication: The Benefits of Attending Makaton Level 1 Training"

In a world where communication connects us all, the Makaton Communication Programme offers a powerful way to include everyone. Makaton combines speech, signs and symbols, to help people communicate more effectively, and learning it can be life-changing. If you’ve ever wondered whether Makaton Level 1 training is like, here are some of the key benefits that make it a valuable and inspiring experience.

1. Build Inclusive Communication Skills

 Makaton Level 1 gives you the tools to communicate with individuals who may need support with their speech, language or communication.

2. Enhance Your Professional Practice

For teachers, teaching assistants, early years practitioners, speech and language therapists, and healthcare workers, Makaton is a powerful professional skill. It enhances your ability to connect, support understanding, and create inclusive environments where everyone can express themselves and be heard.

3. Improve Understanding and ease frustration

When people can communicate their needs, emotions, and choices more easily, frustration decreases. Makaton helps bridge communication gaps, fostering calm, respectful, and supportive relationships—both in personal and professional settings.

4. Support Language Development

Makaton doesn’t replace speech—it supports it. Many learners use signs and symbols alongside words as they develop their communication skills. Over time, this can lead to improved vocabulary, comprehension, and confidence in verbal communication.

5. Join a Supportive Community

 Attending a Makaton Level 1 workshop is more than a training session—it’s a chance to join a community of passionate communicators. You’ll meet others who share your interest in inclusion and learn from experienced Makaton Tutors who bring the system to life with practical examples and hands-on learning.

Find your local tutor by clicking HERE

Find courses with me HERE covering N. Somerset, Somerset, BANES, Bristol

6. Lay the Foundation for Further Learning

Level 1 is the perfect starting point on your Makaton journey. It gives you a strong foundation to progress to Level 2 and beyond, where you can explore more signs, symbols, and techniques to deepen your understanding and impact.

Level 1 training information

Level 1 training is the starting point for learning Makaton. It is recommended for anyone with an interest in Makaton,.

Content

Level 1 training provides a practical introduction to the Makaton Communication Programme.

Sessions include discussing commonly asked questions, hints and tips for effective signing and symbol use and how to start using Makaton in everyday situations at home or work. You will also learn the signs and symbols from Stages 1 and 2, and some of the Additional stage, of the Core Vocabulary.

Duration

The Level 1 workshop training is made up of two modules which can be delivered in a number of different ways.

In-person workshop is typically covered in one full day of around 7 hours.

Online training for Level 1 takes a minimum of seven hours and can be delivered in two to four sessions on one or more days, for example:

• 1 full day (one session in the morning, one in the afternoon.  7.5 hours is recommended to allow plenty of time for lunch, and other breaks from the screen)

• 2 x 3.5-4-hour sessions (different days)

Entry criteria

No previous Makaton experience is required.

Study materials

You will receive a Participant's Manual which includes the Makaton symbols and line drawings of the signs that you learn in the workshop. You will also be given a certificate of attendance.  Please remember to keep your Level 1 training certificate in case you want to attend further Makaton training.

Final Thoughts

Whether you work with children, support adults with communication needs, or simply want to make your world more inclusive, Makaton Level 1 training is a step toward empowerment—for you and those you support. It’s more than a skill; it’s a way to open doors, break barriers, and celebrate every voice.

Ready to start your Makaton journey? Find a licensed Makaton Tutor or training session near you and take the first step toward making communication accessible for all.

References

• The Makaton Charity www.makaton.org

**Disclaimer**

The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only and thoughts and information expressed in these blogs are from my own personal thoughts and real life experiences, they do not contain advisory content. While always striving to provide accurate and up-to-date content, there are no guarantees about the completeness or reliability of any information. Any reliance you place on such information is strictly at your own risk. 

All information on the site is provided in good faith, however, no representation or warranty is made of any kind, expressed or implied, regarding the accuracy, adequacy, validity, reliability, availability, or completeness of any information on the site.

These blogs are created from my own personal experience and are for general information purposes and are not, in any way, advisory. Where needed I have included research and reference links and further reading articles.

At times I have used AI generated content to reword my own thoughts and may include AI research of  information relevant to the blog and to create images relevant to my blogs, however whenever possible I have used my own images with permission from those featured in the images. My blogs are open to fair use.

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