Makaton

Margaret Buttifant writes
As a former infant teacher, and now a Makaton Regional Tutor, I wonder whether teachers in general are aware of the Makaton communication programme for people with Communication Difficulties? Over the last 4 years I have trained many staff in pre-school settings and also staff in primary schools where there has been a need for a communication system for children with speech problems, learning difficulties etc.

As more children are being diagnosed at an early age with problems the programme is being introduced to them as soon as possible and many need to use it into school years. Sadly, many school staff do not seek help for this until the child arrives and there may be a time gap when the child is frustrated and cannot communicate.

Ideally Makaton would be included as part of general teacher training so that teachers are at least aware of the benefits. If this is not a generally known subject could teachers/students somehow be made aware of it? Those who have learned it and have used it with children have found it to be very beneficial.

Contact Margaret Buttifant