FAQs
Why use signing?
Signs give extra information which can be observed. Signs / gestures are easier to learn than the spoken word. Think about babies, they use gestures before they can speak to tell us what they want, for example, for example they will hold out their arms to be lifted up or reach for something they want. Signing can help if a child has difficulties with ‘understanding’ as the sign illustrates what the spoken word means. Users who have difficulty understanding and speaking often become frustrated or withdrawn. And this may result in them communicating through screaming and kicking. By using signing we are helping the user to communicate in a more acceptable way
Who needs to use signing?
The user AND the interactors of the individual concerned. We learn to speak by listening to other people speaking. If your user is going to use signs to communicate, they need to see you and other people using them as well. EVERYONE needs to be involved – this means family members including siblings, grandparents, aunts, uncles etc. Carers and teaching staff at your child’s school or preschool.
Will using Makaton prevent my child from speaking?
No! Research has shown that using signs and symbols encourages the development of speech and language skills. As we are always modelling speech along with our signs, the user will attempt to copy the speech as well as the sign. Makaton uses language in everyday grammatically correct order alongside the signs and symbols.
Can I book an exclusive course for my business/setting and how many people will there be on a course?
Yes, I can accommodate up to 15 persons on a Taster course or 12 on a Level 1-4 course. It is always advantageous to send a group of people on a course as they will then be able to practice their new skills with each other.
Can I book a course for my organisation at a time to suit my employees?
Yes, the Level 1-4 and Taster courses as well as the Frontline courses, Know and Grow and Watch my Needs courses are also run on request for organisations, settings and groups of 3 or more persons. Dates for these are flexible and Serga tries to accommodate the needs of the client ie courses can be run on weekdays, evenings and weekends on request. Courses can be run in one session or spread over two or three sessions.
How often do you run courses?
Level 1 - 4 ‘open’ courses are run regularly every couple of months – see ‘calendar’ – individuals can book onto these courses – see ‘How to book’ below.
Do I have to pay for Makaton books?
No, the Makaton participant manuals will be sent to you after booking and are part of the course fee. Also included in the price is the certificate.