A terrific experience

Cameron Maytham is six years old and has Down's syndrome, and so has a severe speech delay. He is in year 1 in mainstream education.

His mother, Pam Maytham, first heard about Makaton earlier this year, through the Project for Children with Special Needs, having recently moved to this country.

Pam explains how using Makaton is already having a positive effect:

"I attended a Beginners Course (stages 1 - 4) and I found it so much easier than I thought it would be. The course was good as the teacher was very knowledgeable. I think awareness is a major factor. My son's school would really benefit if courses could be offered on site for both his teachers and class mates.

"I have learned a lot from other moms, and use Makaton whenever I can. Cameron loves signing songs so we have a lot of fun with that. It's particularly helpful if he is upset or wanting to be a bit 'tantrumy' - then I get his attention by signing his name and signing to him to listen. It calms him down and also helps me to slow down and not get carried away with too many words that he'll just block out anyway.

"Cameron picked up the signs so quickly and I wish I could adequately describe the look of delight and relief on his little face the first time he signed something to me and I was able to understand him. His LSA [learning support assistant] has also attended a course and regularly uses signs with him. His class are very excited to learn this new language.

"Cameron's communication skills have developed rapidly. He is well versed in the use of the signs for 'biscuit please' and 'TV'!

"During the summer holidays, Cameron and I have a morning date to watch Something Special together, and practise the new signs throughout the day. Cameron's older brother has been learning along with us, as has his dad. I would love it if there was a course for siblings to attend; my older boy would love it. I have ordered software for my computer, which I plan to use extensively. The MVDP were most helpful when I wasn't sure about what software to order.

"I wish it could be part of the National Curriculum. Having a child with special needs has made me so aware of just how many children do have special needs, especially with speech and language.

"What a terrific experience this has been for our family. Cameron feels empowered by what he has learnt, and I am so grateful that my son can actually communicate with me. I look forward to attending the more advanced courses."

February 2006