Communication is fundamental to every child’s learning, wellbeing, and inclusion. Supporting it is a professional responsibility.
This comprehensive, CPD-accredited Makaton awareness course is designed specifically for Early Years practitioners working in Scottish settings. It provides the knowledge, confidence, and practical tools needed to use Makaton effectively to support communication, reduce frustration, and promote inclusion in line with current Scottish guidance and best practice.
Why This Course Matters
Communication is central to children’s development, wellbeing, and ability to feel included. In Early Years settings, practitioners are often the first professionals to notice when a child is struggling to understand, express needs, or engage confidently with others.
This course goes beyond theory. It focuses on real-world Early Years practice, everyday routines, and practical strategies for using Makaton to support communication in line with:
Getting It Right for Every Child (GIRFEC)
Realising the Ambition: Being Me
Care Inspectorate expectations
Scottish Early Learning and Childcare guidance
You will leave with practical confidence, not just knowledge.
What You Will Learn
Throughout 5 structured lessons, you will cover:
- What Makaton is and how it supports communication
- Why Makaton matters in Early Years settings
- How to use Makaton during everyday routines and interactions
- Using key-word signing alongside spoken language
- Supporting children’s understanding, expression, and confidence
- How Makaton can reduce frustration and promote positive behaviour
- Creating inclusive environments where all children can participate
- The importance of consistency across staff teams
- Working in partnership with parents and carers
- Common mistakes to avoid when using Makaton
- Practical strategies you can apply immediately in your setting
Designed for Early Years Professionals
This course is suitable for:
- Nursery practitioners
- Childminders
- Early Years apprentices
- Room leaders and managers
- Support workers and teaching assistants
- Anyone supporting communication and inclusion in Scottish Early Years settings
No prior Makaton knowledge or qualification is required.
Interactive and Practical Learning
✔ Short lesson videos with clear, practical guidance
✔ Interactive activities and knowledge checks
✔ Reflective tasks to apply learning to your own setting
✔ Final 10-question assessment (80% pass mark)
✔ Instant CPD certificate on successful completion
The course is fully online, mobile-friendly, and self-paced — allowing you to complete your training at a time that suits you.
Accreditation and CPD
This course is worth 1 CPD credit and demonstrates continued professional development in communication support, inclusion, and Early Years practice.
It supports inspection readiness, professional accountability, and confidence in meeting children’s communication needs within Scottish Early Years settings.
Protect Children. Protect Yourself. Protect Your Setting.
Supporting communication is everyone’s responsibility, but confidence comes from knowing you are doing it effectively.
Enrol today and strengthen your knowledge, inclusive practice, and professional confidence in using Makaton within Early Years settings.
