How to Learn Makaton Sign Language

Makaton Sign Language is based on British Sign Language. It was developed in the 1970s to help introduce speech to people with special needs or brain injuries. One key difference between Makaton and other sign languages is that it uses one sign to communicate one word; other languages have signs that communicate a phrase, such as "I love you." Makaton also combines the use of simple drawings with the signing, and users are encouraged to mouth or speak the words they are signing. Makaton can be difficult to learn in the United States because resources are not readily available.

Things You'll Need

• A book on Makaton

Instructions

1. Start with basic words such as "mother," "father," "eat" and "drink." Some of the signs are similar to gestures you would use if you were trying to communicate with someone who speaks another language. For example, the sign for "drink" is to cup your hand as if you were holding a glass and putting it to your mouth.

2. Add pictures to your communication. One of the key components of Makaton Sign Language is simple pictures that convey the same meanings as the signs. The pictures correspond to the gestures.

3. Mouth or say the words you are signing. Because the language was designed to help disabled people learn speech, users are encouraged to try to speak the words as well as signing them.

Tips & Warnings

• The Makaton vocabulary is divided into nine categories with 35 to 40 words in each category. Master the words in one category before moving on to the next.

• Before you order a guide to Makaton, be sure the company ships to the United States.

References

• "The Sunday Times"; Makaton - Sign of the Times; Roger Waite; October 2008

Resources

• Makaton Charity
• YouTube: Video Showing Makaton Signs