Santa and his helpers are getting the chance to learn how to communicate with children with speech and language difficulties – by using Makaton signing.
Makaton is a language programme that uses symbols, signs and speech to help people with communication challenges. The signs are used with speech to support language development and can help people who have no speech or whose speech is unclear.
City Santas, his elves and his helpers who will be visiting schools, shops and community events this Christmas are being invited to a special Makaton workshop at Aberdeen Health & Care Village, Frederick Street, on Wednesday 6 November, 4.30-6pm – phone Sarah Thornborrow on 01224 310582 or email sarah.thornborrow1@nhs.net to book a place. The session costs just £5.
They will learn some simple Makaton signs so that they can interact with children who have communication difficulties.
Partnership Speech and Language therapist Lisa Bergstrand, who came up with the idea, said: “Up to 10% of children start their education with speech, language and communication difficulties. Makaton signs can help them to understand what is being said to them and allow them to develop language and communication skills before their first words emerge.
“Our Speech and Language Therapy Team works with parents, nurseries, schools, libraries and other partners to train them in how to support children to communicate effectively – and Makaton is one of the tools.
“We’re so excited that this year to be inviting some of Aberdeen’s Santas, elves and other grotto characters to be more inclusive and to be able to interact with the children who use Makaton.”
Lead Speech and Language Therapist Pamela Cornwallis said: “Being able to communicate is one of the most important skills we need in life. Almost everything we do involves communication, like learning at school, asking for food and drink, sorting out problems, making friends and having fun.
“Makaton takes away frustration and enables children to connect with other people and the world around them. This opens up all kinds of possibilities.”
The Makaton Santa workshop was officially launched at Orchard Brae School with performances by its Makaton Choir, led by Music Therapist Emmeline McCracken.
Emmeline said: “Music is a universal language for any child with learning difficulties or additional support needs. Our choir has really helped the pupils to use language and Makaton signs through the repetition of familiar songs.”
Integration Joint Board chair Cllr Sarah Duncan said: “I am so proud of Lisa, Pamela and the whole Speech and Language Therapy team for coming up with and supporting this innovative idea of teaching Makaton to our Santas and his helpers. It will be very special for children with language difficulties to be able to visit Santa and know that they will be able to communicate together.”
