Makaton International Awareness Day
Makaton International Awareness Day is a joyful moment that highlights Makaton—a friendly way of mixing speech, hand signs, and picture symbols so people with communication challenges can express themselves. The day bursts with energy and warmth as families, schools, and communities come together.
Position your organization as an inclusive community champion by hosting Makaton learning sessions and symbol-themed activities that celebrate communication accessibility.
- Learn 3 easy Makaton signs in 60 seconds—teach your family and boost inclusion
- Real stories: How Makaton changed communication for families in our community
- Host a symbol-swap challenge at your workplace or school on August 28
- Decorate with purpose: Free Makaton symbols to celebrate accessibility and joy
Makaton International Awareness Day started in 2022. The Makaton Charity created it to mark 50 years of the Makaton Language Programme.
This system helps people with communication difficulties express themselves using speech, hand signs, and symbols.
Speech therapist Margaret Walker, along with Katherine Johnston and Tony Cornforth, developed the programme in the 1970s. It first supported adults with learning disabilities but quickly reached children and people with different communication needs.
The awareness day happens each year on August 28. That date honors Margaret Walker’s birthday. The Makaton Charity chose it to celebrate the impact of her work. People from all over the world now join the event.
They take part in learning sessions, sign-along videos, and symbol-themed crafts. Some bake cakes, fly the Makaton flag, or share their stories online. These simple activities create a friendly space for learning.
Each celebration helps more people understand how Makaton works. It also brings attention to the needs of those who use it every day. Children and adults alike benefit from this support.
What began as a small idea has now grown into a worldwide message of inclusion. The day continues to spread kindness, connection, and joy through shared signs and understanding.
Host a Mini-Workshop
Gather friends or family for a short session. Teach a few simple signs or symbols. Encourage everyone to practice during conversation. This boosts confidence and sparks smiles.
Decorate with Symbols
Use free resources from the official Makaton Library. Hang bunting or use cupcake wraps decorated with symbols. Bright visuals make inclusion feel real and fun.
Share a Signed Song
Pick a familiar tune and learn the Makaton version. Film a short clip and post it online with the right tags. This brings joy and invites others to join in.
Join a Community Event
Check for meet‑ups hosted by local tutors or groups. Attend story time, trail tours, or games that include signs. You’ll feel part of something uplifting.
Share a Success Store
Encourage someone who uses Makaton to tell you how it helps them. Post that on social media or in a local group. Real experiences make the benefits clear.
Fly the Flag
Show your support by displaying the Makaton flag at home, in school, or at work. It invites questions and opens up friendly chats.
Swap Symbols at School
Ask classmates or coworkers to pick a symbol of the day. Share it, talk about its meaning, and spot it in use. That small effort deepens understanding.