Makaton For Early Years Settings 14th March 9.30-1.00pm

Do you work with babies, toddlers or pre-school children?

Do you want to give every child the best possible start in communication?

Are you looking for practical tools you can use straight away to support children’s understanding and expression?

This 3-hour interactive workshop is designed for early years professionals who want to create calm, engaging and inclusive environments where all children can thrive. Makaton helps children connect, express themselves, and feel understood, even before they can speak.

Why this workshop matters

• Support early communication and language development
• Reduce frustration and help children express their needs
• Strengthen bonds between children, parents and practitioners
• Create an inclusive setting that supports every child’s communication

What will you learn?

This workshop gives you the confidence and tools to:

• Use Makaton signs and symbols alongside speech during daily routines and activities
• Support children’s understanding and ability to make choices
• Embed signing into songs, stories, and play
• Involve parents, carers and other professionals in consistent communication support
• Create inclusive environments where all children can participate and belong

Workshop content

The session covers:

• How Makaton supports early communication and language development
• The communication journey and the importance of visual support
• Key signs and symbols for daily routines and play
• Practical strategies for embedding signing into everyday interactions
• Signing through stories, songs and group activities
• Real-life examples and practical exercises with support from your Tutor/Trainer

You’ll also explore phrases commonly used in early years settings, such as:

• “Do you want a drink of milk or water?”
• “Are you feeling worried?”
• “Where are the bricks?”
• “Have you finished drawing?”
• “Which toy would you like?”
• “Great sitting and listening. Well done!”

Who is this for?

This workshop is ideal for anyone working with young children, including:

• Nursery and pre-school staff
• Early years teachers and SENCOs
• Childminders and family support workers
• Speech and language professionals
• Children’s centre staff and outreach teams

No previous experience with Makaton is needed.

How it works

•  3-hour interactive session
•  Available online or face-to-face
•  Delivered by a licensed Makaton Tutor/Trainer
•  Includes official Makaton resources and certificate of attendance