Makaton International Awareness Day, Friday 28th August 2026
This Makaton Awareness Day, we’re celebrating the importance of communication in all its forms.
Every baby, child and young person we support at Rainbows has a voice that deserves to be heard. Children of all ages and abilities, living with different conditions, communicate in their own unique ways. Our role is to understand how each individual communicates, so we can listen to what they are telling us – whether they use words, signs, sounds, technology, movement or something else entirely.
Verbal communication is only one small part of how we communicate.
Some children and young people may be non-speaking and communicate through sounds, gestures, facial expressions, physical movements or eye pointing. These can tell us so much – whether someone is happy or sad, in pain or comfortable, relaxed or anxious, and what choices they want to make.
Others may use technology to help them communicate, such as an iPad with a communication programme or an eye-gaze device. Photos, symbols and ‘Now and Next’ boards can help children understand what is happening and express their choices.
Some children may use PECS (Picture Exchange Communication System), sign language or Makaton.
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to communication.
Getting to know each child
One of the most important things we can do at Rainbows is get to know each baby, child or young person as an individual.
We learn from their families and the people who know them best. They can help us understand their interests, routines, important people, likes and dislikes, and most importantly how they communicate.
If a child has a communication passport or an ‘All About Me’ document that has been completed at home, we encourage families to share this with us. It can provide invaluable insight into how we can best support and communicate with them.
Making sure every voice is heard
When a baby, child or young person is supported by Rainbows, it is essential that our teams have the information, resources and communication equipment they need.
Whether a child communicates through Makaton, an eye-gaze device, pictures, gestures, sounds, facial expressions or a combination of different methods, we want to understand their voice and make sure they have the opportunity to express themselves.
Because everyone has something to say.
This Makaton Awareness Day, we’re proud to recognise Makaton as one important way that children and young people communicate, while celebrating the many different ways the children and young people we support at Rainbows have a voice.
Watch our latest video celebrating Makaton bringing us all together.