A level playing field

Isaac Sheard, 2, has Down's syndrome and hearing loss. He will be starting nursery in September.

Isaac's mother, Ann-Marie Sheard, tells his story:

“We started using Makaton with Isaac when he was about 6 months old. The primary school my children go to have used Makaton for many years. We also heard about Makaton from our local Down's syndrome support group, which we started to attend after Isaac was born.

“I went on a training course funded by the Down's syndrome support group, which was excellent. It is easy to pick up but you do need to use it regularly to become proficient. I think more schools should use it regardless of who needs to use it, I run a daycare nursery and we sign and sing with all the children regardless of whether Isaac is attending the session. Most are aware of Mr Tumble and love Justin Fletcher.

“We started with the basics and have developed it to suit Isaac's needs. He now has hundreds of signs, so we can use everyday communication plus singing and story telling

“I have created a communication book, use the Something Special programmes and DVDs (I really need all of them, so will have to save up!), and have created signage from the CBeebies website.

“Isaac is extremely sociable and displays such pleasure when he ‘talks’ to someone and they understand and respond to him. It means he's on more of a level playing field, so he can join in more.

“All Isaac's immediate family use Makaton, as do close friends and the nursery staff. We have to keep improving to keep up with him! (Isaac's Portage worker has just been on an advanced course.)

“Makaton has been instrumental in enabling everyone to communicate with Isaac, and him with us. The person who invented it deserves a medal, and Justin Fletcher is a super hero in our house!”

July 2010