Steps to Becoming Makaton Certified

Learning Makaton is a wonderful way to open up communication for people with additional needs. It’s a language programme that uses signs, symbols, and speech to help people express themselves and understand others. If you want to make a real difference, becoming Makaton certified is a great step. It equips you with the skills and confidence to support communication in schools, nurseries, families, and frontline services.

In this post, I’ll walk you through the steps to becoming Makaton certified. I’ll share practical tips and clear guidance to help you on your journey. Whether you’re new to Makaton or looking to deepen your knowledge, this guide will help you take the right steps.

Why Becoming Makaton Certified Matters

Becoming Makaton certified means you have official training and recognition. It shows you understand the Makaton Communication system and can use it effectively. This certification is valuable for anyone working with people who have communication difficulties.

When you are certified, you can:

• Support children and adults to communicate better

• Help families connect with their loved ones

• Work confidently in schools, nurseries, or care settings

• Improve your professional skills and career opportunities

• Consider further training that enables you to train colleagues.

  
  

Certification also means you learn from qualified trainers who know the best ways to teach and use Makaton. This ensures you get accurate, up-to-date information and practical experience.

Eye-level view of a classroom with Makaton symbols on the wall

The Process of Becoming Makaton Certified

The journey to becoming Makaton certified is straightforward but requires commitment. Here are the main steps you’ll follow:

1. Choose the Right Course

   There are different levels of Makaton training. Start with the Foundation Level if you’re new. This course introduces you to the basics of Makaton signs and symbols. After that, you can progress to the Core or Advanced Levels.

   
   

2. Find an Accredited Training Provider

   It’s important to learn from an accredited provider. They follow the official Makaton training standards. You can find courses offered online or face-to-face, depending on what suits you best.

   
   

3. Complete the Training

   Training usually involves a mix of theory and practical sessions. You’ll learn signs, symbols, and how to use them in real-life situations. Practice is key, so take every chance to use Makaton during the course.

   
   

4. Receive Your Certification

   Once you pass, you’ll get your official Makaton Certificate of Attendance. This is your proof of qualification and can be shared with employers or organisations.

   
   

5. Keep Practising and Learning

   Makaton is a living language. To stay confident, keep practising regularly. You can also attend refresher courses or join Makaton user groups.

   
   

If you want to know more about how to get makaton certified, the official Makaton website is a great place to start.

Can I Learn Makaton for Free?

You might wonder if it’s possible to learn Makaton without paying for a course. The answer is yes, but with some important points to consider.

There are free resources available online, such as videos, symbol charts, and basic guides. These can help you get a feel for Makaton and start learning some signs. However, free resources usually don’t provide the full training experience or certification.

If you want to become fully certified, you will need to invest in an accredited course. This ensures you learn the language correctly and gain the skills to use it confidently. Free resources are a great way to supplement your learning or prepare before starting a course.

Here are some tips if you want to explore Makaton for free:

• Use official Makaton websites for free materials

• Watch videos demonstrating signs and symbols

• Practice with family or friends who know Makaton

• Join online forums or social media groups for support

  
  

Remember, free learning is a good start, but certification requires formal training.

Tips for Success in Your Makaton Training

Training to become Makaton certified can be fun and rewarding. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your course:

• Practice Regularly

Use the signs and symbols daily. Practice with people around you or even in front of a mirror. The more you use Makaton, the easier it becomes.

• Ask Questions

Don’t hesitate to ask your trainer if you’re unsure about anything. Clarifying doubts early helps you learn better.

• Use Real-Life Examples

Try to apply Makaton in real situations. For example, use signs during mealtimes, play, or storytime. This makes learning practical and meaningful.

• Join a Community

Connect with other Makaton learners or users. Sharing experiences and tips can boost your confidence and motivation.

• Stay Patient and Positive

Learning a new language takes time. Celebrate small wins and keep a positive attitude.

What Happens After You Get Certified?

Once you have your Makaton certification, you can start using your skills in many ways. You might work in schools, nurseries, healthcare, or community services. You can also support families who want to learn Makaton for their loved ones.

Certification opens doors to further learning too. You can take advanced courses or specialise in certain areas, like teaching Makaton to children with specific needs.

It’s also important to keep your skills fresh. Attend refresher courses or workshops when you can. This helps you stay up-to-date with any changes or new signs.

Becoming Makaton certified is just the beginning of a rewarding journey. You’ll be part of a community that helps people communicate and connect in meaningful ways.

I hope this guide has made the path to becoming Makaton certified clear and encouraging. Remember, every step you take helps build better communication for those who need it most. If you’re ready to start, check out the official training options and take that first step today!