A crafty young man!

James Farrah, 17, has Down's Syndrome. He is now studying at a mainstream college.

His mother, Diane Farrah, tells his story:

"James has used Makaton all his life, since he was a baby. I heard about Makaon from a community nurse and went on a training course. The tutors were extremely friendly and very amiable, we had a really good laugh, so all the carers and professionals were at their ease, which enabled us all to learn quickly.

"Although I've always supplemented Makaton with speech, James has a hearing loss, so Makaton was real boon to his vocabulary. Everyone that meets James remarks how well he communicates.

""His grandparents and my partner used Makaton but have stopped using it since James' speech has improved.

"James' use of Makaton has developed enormously. He still teaches me many of the signs. We're planning to adopt a girl with Down's so he's teaching my other children too. In college he uses it to speak secretly to other people who sign: such a crafty young man!

"James' social and family life has been greatly improved by Makaton. If it hadn't existed I don't think James would be half the wonderful young man he is today. Keep up the good work Makaton - you're amazing!"

February 2009