One of the alternative and supporting methods of AAC communication is the Makaton Language Program – a system of gestures and graphic symbols. The author of the Polish version of the Makaton Program is Dr. Bogusława B. Kaczmarek. Makaton uses what the child already knows – simple gestures and graphic drawings. Makaton gestures are alternative forms (when speech does not occur at all) or speech aids (when speech occurs, but not enough to be able to understand it). They serve as an additional means that reinforces the message conveyed to or by the child. People who most often use Makaton signs are children and adults with intellectual disabilities, cerebral palsy or autism.
The program (basic scope) consists of about 450 basic characters and about 7000 supplementary, additional characters. We do not translate all words in a sentence, only 1 or 2 words.
In Makaton, in addition to manual signs, graphic symbols are also used, which are used by people who are unable to make a gesture, then point to the symbol and thus signal their needs and interests.
The choice of gesture form or symbol depends on the individual needs and capabilities of the person using the method. Gestures and symbols are not mutually exclusive alternatives, they can be used together or separately, or they can be combined with other AAC systems (pictograms, PCS, photographs).
