Makaton worldwide

If you live outside the UK, you cannot use the British version of the Makaton Programme. It has to be adapted to take into account language differences and cultural differences in lifestyle and customs.

For example, some concepts that are not part of the core vocabulary in the UK (such as camel, desert, and earthquake) may be an integral part of life in another country, so need to be included in the core vocabulary in that country.

Also, the sign language used by the deaf community in each country is completely different, even in other English-speaking countries like Australia, New Zealand, USA and Canada. Sign languages reflect the cultures of their country, and therefore it is inappropriate for signs from British Sign Language (BSL) to be used outside the UK with Makaton (other than in British Territories).

Some of the UK resource materials can be used by people overseas, but if they include British Signs then they may need adapting. For this reason you need to contact us directly to discuss your needs because we don't want you to waste your money.

In some countries there are well established Makaton centres or tutors who can provide information advice and training (see countries listed in the right column).

In other countries the Makaton programme may only be used limitedly, or is no longer in use but the adaptations for that country have been made (see Adapting Makaton for use worldwide).