Makaton Training
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.
Makaton Taster Sessions
This is a 2-hour training session for adults and it is a great starting point for your Makaton journey.
It is appropriate for participants who plan to use Makaton occasionally with a small number of Makaton users or for those who would just like to know a little bit more about it or take up a new skill.
Participants learn 20 core Makaton signs plus some additional signs. The additional signs can be tailored to best suit the setting where participants plan to use them e.g. signing with babies, signing in schools etc.
Participants will be able to start using Makaton straight away and will be given lots of ideas on how to incorporate the signs into daily life.
Certified Makaton Training
The certified Makaton levels are appropriate for those who wish to introduce Makaton as a regular part of daily communication and / or those wishing to incorporate Makaton into professional settings.
The certified training is appropriate for parents and carers as well as professionals.
There are 4 certified levels of training. Each level builds on the one before. Courses are all designed and written by The Makaton Charity.
Participants must begin with Level 1. They can progress through the levels but there is no obligation to do so. Many participants feel that they have achieved the standard they require after level 1 or levels 1 and 2.
Participants will gain formal certification on completion of each level.
Each level can be delivered as a full day course or may be completed over 2 half days if preferred.