Makaton | Hearing Ambassadors

Makaton is a unique communication system that combines signs, symbols, and speech to support language development and understanding. Originally developed in the 1970s, it is widely used in the UK to help people with communication difficulties express themselves more effectively.

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This sign language uses many simplified signs from BSL and is particularly beneficial for anyone with who finds difficulty with communication, such as people with hearing loss or speech and language difficulties. It is used by both children and adults in many situations.

Unlike full sign languages, Makaton is designed to support and encourage spoken language, rather than replace it. It can help users feel more confident in communication, reducing frustration and improving social interactions.

How is it Taught and Used?

Makaton is typically introduced through structured training programs, available through Makaton tutors and online resources. It is used in:

Schools and nurseries to help children with communication needs
Hospitals and healthcare settings to support patients with speech difficulties
Community spaces like libraries and supermarkets to improve accessibility
Everyday home life for families who want to enhance communication with loved ones

The Role of Music and Songs

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It is often taught through singing and music, making it fun and engaging. Popular children’s programs like Something Special with Mr Tumble have introduced the language to a wider audience, and many nurseries and schools incorporate it into songs to help children learn words and signs together. Indeed, out own grandchildren are learning it!

How Does Makaton Relate to BSL?

It borrows signs from British Sign Language (BSL) but has key differences:
The signs are simplified to make them easier to learn.
The signs follow spoken word order, whereas BSL has its own grammar and structure.
It also uses symbols alongside signs to reinforce meaning.

Because of these differences, Makaton is not a full sign language like BSL, but it can serve as a stepping stone for those who may later learn BSL.

Is There an ASL Version

Whilst it is primarily used in the UK, similar systems exist in other countries. In the US, Signed Exact English (SEE),serves a similar purpose by supporting communication with simplified signs while following spoken English word order. SEE is based on American Sign Language (ASL) but is not considered ASL itself, as ASL has a distinct grammatical structure. In Austrailia Key Word Sign is very popular

Makaton in Everyday Life

Many public places and services now use Makaton to create a more inclusive environment. Look out for Makaton signs in:
Hospitals – helping patients with communication difficulties
Libraries – staff signing to assist young children and those with disabilities
Supermarkets – where employees are trained to use basic signs for customer service

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Common Misconceptions About Makaton

❌ Makaton is just simplified sign language. – While it uses BSL signs, it is designed to support spoken language, not replace it.
❌ If you use Makaton, you won’t learn to speak. – Research shows that Makaton actually helps many people develop their speech by reinforcing words with visual signs and symbols.
❌ Only children use Makaton.– People of all ages benefit from Makaton, including adults recovering from strokes.

Final Thoughts

It is a powerful communication tool that enhances understanding and inclusion for people with hearing, speech and language challenges. While it is not a full sign language like BSL or ASL, it plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between spoken and signed communication.

Try these free resources to get started.

The Makaton Charity – Free Resources. The official Makaton Charity offers a variety of free downloadable resources, including vocabulary lists, activities, and guides. Access requires a free account.
Twinkl – Makaton Teaching Resources. Twinkl provides a wide range of printable and digital teaching resources, including worksheets, eBooks, games, and PowerPoints, suitable for various educational settings.

Find out more about ASL, BSL, Baby Sign and Cued, in the news section on our website

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Sign language is a rich and expressive way of communicating using hand movements, facial expressions, and body language. Different countries and regions have their own distinct languages, such as British Sign Language (BSL), American Sign Language (ASL), and French Sign Language (LSF). Just as with a spoken language, there are many regional dialects and variations.

Origins

Sign languages have developed naturally over centuries within Deaf communities. Some of the earliest recorded uses date back to Ancient Greece, but more structured systems emerged in the 18th and 19th centuries.

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LSF – Was developed in France, and influenced ASL and others. This is one of the earliest formalised sign languages.
BSL – Evolved from various localised sign systems in the UK.
MVSL – Originated in a small Deaf community in Martha’s Vinyard, USA. MVSL contributed to the development of ASL.
LSE – Was developed in Spain where monks used signs to communicate.

Local Deaf communities have given a special shape to their language, education, and culture, so it isn’t surprising that each country’s and region’s versions have evolved differently.

Primary Users

Signs are used to good effect by those with communication challenges, but the primary users are Deaf and hard-of-hearing people, their families and colleagues.

Are the Signs the Same Worldwide?

No! Just like spoken languages, sign languages have their own grammar, vocabulary, and regional dialects. For example, BSL and ASL are completely different languages, even though both are used in English-speaking countries. We will look into some of the differences in a later article.

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Derivatives of BSL

British Sign Language is the basis of several derivatives including:

SSE (Sign Supported English) – which uses English word order with BSL signs to support communication.
Makaton – a simplified system that combines signs, speech, and symbols to help people with communication difficulties.
Baby Sign – a way of teaching babies to communicate their needs before they can talk.

An Official Language?

Yes! Some countries have made an official recognition of sign language, giving it legal protection and meaning that it can be used in education, public services, and government communication.

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The countries which officially recognise sign language include:

United Kingdom – BSL became an officially recognised language in 2022.
New Zealand – NZSL is an official language alongside English and Māori.
South Africa – gave SASL official language status in 2023.

Many other countries have recognised their national sign languages in some legal capacity, but full rights and access still vary.

More Than Just a Language

Sign language is deeply connected to Deaf culture and identity. It’s not just a way to communicate—it fosters community, and understanding. It breaks down communication barriers and brings people together.

Sign language is a beautifully expressive way to communicate, and we believe it is a valuable skill for everyone.

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By taking the time to learn even the basics, hearing people can contribute to a more accessible and connected world and show respect, understanding, and a commitment to equality.

Learning any new language benefits the brain, and sign language is no exception. This is because it engages multiple parts of the brain—including those responsible for language processing, spatial awareness, and motor coordination—so this new skill can improve your cognitive function.

Why not start today? Whether through online courses, community classes, or simply practicing with a friend, begin a rewarding journey that will open doors to new experiences and deeper human connections.

If this has sparked your interest and you would like to learn more, please explore the links below.

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