Early Years Taster Session
A Taster Session will start you on your Makaton journey by providing a practical introduction to the Makaton Language Programme and a wider understanding of learning & communication difficulties. Taster sessions are topic based and can be tailored to your requirements for the theme of the session.
Content
The Taster Session is an informal training providing information about the Makaton Language Programme and how it may be used in different settings to support language development and communication. The session introduces the signs & symbols for over 45 useful everyday words including, 12 words to suit the theme of the session, this can be tailored to best suit your group or setting. List ‘A’ comprises of 34 useful everyday signs & symbols and List ‘B’ offers signs & symbols for 12 more words or concepts for the theme of the session. Please indicate if there are any particular words or concepts matching the theme that you would like to learn.
Delivery method
Online Taster Sessions are delivered in real time in a virtual meeting room via Zoom - You will need a good internet connection to ensure Zoom works well, as well as a big enough screen to see all participants (this can be up to 15 others). Ideally, a computer/laptop screen with camera and microphone function, as you will need to be seen and heard clearly for assessment of your signing. Mobile phones are NOT suitable as you will need both hands free and visible throughout the session and during group activities you will need to see all participants.
Please ensure your environment is quiet and distraction free.
You will receive a participation pack and Zoom link for the workshop via an email from signingtogethermakatontutor@gmail.com after booking and full payment has been received. Please look out for this email (also check your junk folder) as it contains important information which you will need to print ahead of the session.
If you want to join the session from abroad, please email signingtogethermakatontutor@gmail.com before placing your booking to ensure you are able to join the workshop Internationally.
Duration
Online Taster Sessions are 90 minutes, this can be dependent on group size up to a maximum of 15 attendees. Please note timings of the session may vary depending on group size & any previous experience or knowledge.
Entry criteria
No previous experience is required for a Taster Session. Participants must be over 16 years of age.
Accessibility
Please raise at time of booking if you have any challenges or additional needs, so reasonable adjustments can be made to support your learning & participation.
Study materials
You will receive a participant pack, via email to the attendee email address provided at the time of booking, which you will need to print ahead of the session. Please note that bookings close two full days prior to the session date to allow ample time for your participant pack to be emailed and printed by you ahead of the session. Please ensure you have your printed participant pack when attending the online session, you will be unable to proceed through the session without the printed materials.
You will also be emailed a Certificate of Attendance upon completion of the Taster Session.
Next step
After completing a Taster Session you can continue on your Makaton journey by attending a Level 1 Workshop.
