It's very exciting!

Hudson Paul, aged 18 months, has Down’s syndrome. He has Portage once a week, and goes to a toddler group with his mother, where he does singing and signing. He also goes to Small Steps groups, and Oasis groups, for family and children with additional needs.

His mother, Carol Paul, tells his story:

“I heard about Makaton through a friend who has become a Makaton trainer, and I did a Baby Signing course when Hudson was about 6 months old. He first signed 'milk' at 9 months.

"The Baby Signing course was very good. I learnt all the basic signs and my teacher taught me extra signs when I asked. I’ve just completed a six week course for parents, which I enjoyed very much, and learnt a lot. I try to use as much as I can every day, and am looking forward to doing more courses.

"I find a lot of signs come very easily now, and use my books to remind me when I have forgotten a sign. It also helps to talk a little slower, so it gives Hudson a little longer to take in what I have said, as I would usually talk very quickly.

"Hudson is doing really well. He signs eat, drink, Mummy (but uses one finger on palm of hand instead of three!) bricks, ball, hello, bye, toothbrush, yes, ei-ei-o (Old Macdonald), and tries many others. He is progressing very well: it's very exciting!

“Hudson's sisters, aged 3, 16, and 17, and his brother, 13, all use Makaton sometimes. And some of my friends use what they have learnt from us. We are also trying to teach Hudson’s Grandparents.

“Most of my close friends get used to me talking with my hands, though some people have asked me if Hudson is deaf. I do singing and signing at my local toddler group and love it. I used baby signing when my 3 year old daughter was about 7-8 months old.

“I love Makaton and have been trying to promote it to all my friends, as I feel it helps all children, not just those that have an additional need.”

February 2010