Makaton Signing for Children: What It Is and How It Supports Communication

Bridging the Communication Gap

Many parents in Singapore tell us: "My child struggles to communicate their needs, and it leads to frustration and meltdowns."

If this sounds familiar, you’re not the only one going through this. Children with autism, speech delays, or other developmental challenges often need tools to express themselves while they build language skills.

One of the most effective, evidence-based tools is Makaton signing, a structured language programme that combines signs, symbols, and speech. It’s not just “baby signs”; it’s a bridge to meaningful communication for children of all ages.

This helps temporarily enable the child how the communication works while they develop their vocab. It is not to replace speech.  

What is Makaton Signing?

Makaton is a language programme that uses spoken words alongside signs (gestures) and symbols to make communication accessible.

• Signs: Simple hand gestures to represent words or concepts

• Symbols: Pictures that visually reinforce words

• Speech: Spoken language paired consistently with signs and symbols

This combination helps children understand and express language before they develop fluent speech. Importantly, Makaton is not a replacement for speech, it supports language development and reduces frustration.

Who Can Benefit from Makaton?

Makaton is designed for anyone who struggles with spoken language. In Singapore, it’s most commonly used with children who:

• Have autism spectrum disorder

• Experience speech and language delays

• Have developmental delays or learning difficulties

• Are hearing impaired or have other communication challenges

It can also be adapted for older children and adults in some therapeutic settings.

How Makaton Supports Communication Development

Makaton helps children:

• Express needs and emotions clearly, reducing frustration and meltdowns

• Develop early vocabulary and language skills

• Engage with family, peers, and teachers, fostering social connection

• Transition to spoken language, as signs support memory and comprehension

• Strengthen cognitive skills like sequencing, planning, and working memory

Essentially, every sign is an opportunity to practice executive function, social interaction, and language development in a fun and meaningful way.

How to Introduce Makaton at Home

1. Start Small: Choose 5-10 high-frequency, functional signs like eat, drink, help, toilet, more.

2. Pair Words with Signs: Always say the word as you sign it.

3. Use Visual Aids: Pictures or symbols help reinforce understanding.

4. Integrate into Routines: Mealtime, playtime, bath time, and transitions are perfect opportunities.

5. Involve the Whole Family: Encourage siblings, grandparents, and caregivers to sign consistently.

6. Celebrate Attempts: Every gesture, sign, or word is a step toward meaningful communication.

Makaton in Singapore

In Singapore, parents can access Makaton through:

• Speech therapists and early intervention programmes

• Special education schools

• Online Makaton training and certified resources

Makaton as a Bridge, Not a Replacement

Makaton signing is more than just gestures, it’s a powerful tool to help children communicate their needs, reduce frustration, and build language skills.

Your child isn’t “behind,” they’re communicating in their own way. Makaton is simply a bridge to help you understand them.

If you’d like to explore whether Makaton could help your child communicate more confidently, our team at Total Communication is here to guide you.

Call/WhatsApp: +65 9115 8895

Fill our reachout form: Contact Total Communication Therapy Center

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Important link

• Speech Therapy Singapore, Stuttering Therapy | Total Communication