The signs are fantastic

Declan with his elder brothers,
Conor and Ronan

Declan Gilmurray is 23 months old. He has Down's Syndrome.

His mother, Ana Gilmurray, tells his story:

"Declan is 23 months old and I have been using Makaton with him for six months. He can already use the signs in the correct context for eat, drink, sleep, all gone, thank you, book, yes, and music, and he understands so many more. I am teaching him no, sorry, milk, juice, animal names, and names of the most important people around him.

"He loves music and books and this is a really easy way to help him learn new signs. I am frustrated at having to wait months to get on a course, but it shouldn't be long now and I am sure that as a result Declan will be less frustrated than if he couldn't tell me what was wrong. He learns quickly and can join in Incy Wincy spider.

"Music is a valuable tool for all of us and one that makes learning fun. My advice to anyone starting out is - don't be embarrassed, and don't become dicouraged when it seems that your child is not repeating the signs back. They will be pleased that you look funny to start with and with perserverance WILL come to understand what you are saying.

"I can't begin to tell you how fantastic it is when your child tries to action the sign and know what it means - the child feels brilliant and you feel even better. Praise is essential - the more over the top the better!

"My family and friends are delighted to learn what I am teaching him and we have regular sessions to show them what to do - consistency is the key here. His speech is far from impaired - we have lots of sounds from Declan and even a couple of words already. I am sure that the music, books and Makaton signs are all making sure that his speech is as developed as it can be and is not falling behind.

"I was at my GP last week and a lady asked me why I was signing to him, as she thought he was deaf - facially Declan is not very pronounced Down's. When I explained why, she was really interested and started to join in with me! Maybe I'm lucky, I've never had a bad reaction with Declan yet - everyone I know, and many others I don't, are more than happy to communicate with my lovely son any way they can. Go ahead and use the signs - they are fantastic."

June 2006