About Me
My name is Katherine. I qualified as a Speech and Language Therapist from The University of Ulster in 2006. I spent 14 years working in the NHS with children with a wide range of speech, language and communication difficulties. I am also a fully certified Makaton Tutor. I am passionate about helping my clients to achieve their full potential and to develop their communication skills while having lots of fun!
My Makaton Journey
I began using Makaton in 2007 when I first started working as a Speech Therapist in the Special Education Sector in Belfast. I saw first-hand what a useful tool it is to help children understand language and to express themselves more clearly. When my own children were born, I introduced Makaton signs with them when they were babies. I saw how much it benefited them until their spoken language became clear. After many years of using Makaton in my clinical work and at home, I undertook the training to become a registered Makaton Tutor in 2018.
Where can I Access Makaton Training?
I deliver Makaton Taster sessions and certified Makaton levels to small groups at my base in Lisburn. These sessions are for adults. Adults are equipped with the skills to use Makaton to support those who require Makaton to enhance their communication. There is a maximum of 10 people per group. Please contact me for details of upcoming group dates. For larger groups / organisations who require Makaton training e.g. schools, daycare, adult day centres, I am happy to come to you. Please get in touch to discuss your needs and I can advise on the most appropriate training that can be tailored to suit your group.
About Makaton
WHAT IS MAKATON
A language programme that uses both manual signs and visual symbols alongside spoken language. It makes language much more visual for those who struggle to communicate clearly though verbal means alone. Signs are based on British Sign Language but are simplified. Rather than being a stand-alone language, it is a tool to use alongside verbal / written language.
WHO CAN USE MAKATON
Many children and adults use Makaton to support their communication. Makaton is not only for late talkers and those with communication difficulties. It is becoming more and more widely used with babies and toddlers in a range of early years and mainstream settings. As people see how it can truly bridge the communication barrier and reduce frustration until spoken language is fully established.
Services
Makaton Taster Sessions
This is a 2-hour training session for adults and a great starting point for your Makaton journey.
Certified Makaton Training
This more in depth training session will provide you with a Makaton certification and is appropriate for professionals & carers.