A fun, friendly and inclusive Makaton signing club for all children at West Byfleet Infant School. Every Wednesday after school!
Makaton is a unique language programme that uses symbols, signs and speech to help people communicate. It was developed in the UK and is used by over 100,000 people every day.
Originally created to support people with communication difficulties, Makaton has become widely used with all children — helping them express themselves before they can fully speak, and continuing to support language development as they grow.
You may already know some Makaton — it's used on beloved children's TV programmes like Something Special with Mr Tumble!
At Happy Hands, we make signing fun, accessible and joyful for every child, regardless of their background or ability.
Makaton uses signs, symbols and speech together to make communication fun and accessible for everyone!
Signing alongside speech strengthens language skills and helps children express themselves more confidently.
Multi-sensory learning through signs and symbols reinforces memory and understanding in children.
Children develop a deeper understanding of and connection with peers who communicate differently.
A shared language that bridges communication differences and brings children together as a community.
Sessions are packed with games, songs and activities that make learning to sign an absolute joy.
Mastering a new skill gives children a huge confidence boost and a real sense of achievement.
Don't miss out — spaces are limited and filling fast!
Fun, inclusive and welcoming — find out more about us
My journey with West Byfleet Infant School began over a decade ago when I walked through the doors as a parent helper, with my son Sebastian in Year One. A year later I joined the staff team — and I haven't looked back since. Sebastian has just completed his GCSEs and is heading off to college, but the infectious enthusiasm and wonderful curiosity of the children at this school have held my heart every single day in between.
My Makaton story began with a cheeky, wonderful little girl who joined our school a number of years ago. She has Down's Syndrome and used Makaton to help her communicate with the world around her. I trained in Makaton so that I could be there for her — so that she would always have someone who could understand her and speak her language.
What started as a skill I needed to learn quickly became something I was completely passionate about. I was struck by how natural and joyful signing felt, and by how eagerly the other children wanted to join in. Makaton has a remarkable ability to bring children together — it doesn't single anyone out, it invites everyone in.
That's exactly what Happy Hands is all about. I want every child to experience the joy of signing, the confidence it brings and the connections it creates. Whether your child has communication needs or is simply curious and keen to learn something new, there is a place for them here.
I cannot wait to sign with them. 🤟
Happy Hands is a place where every child belongs, regardless of ability, background or experience. We celebrate every child's unique way of communicating.
Learning is best when it's enjoyable! Our sessions are packed with games, songs and activities that keep children engaged and smiling throughout.
We create a safe, warm and encouraging environment where children feel confident to try new things and celebrate every step of their signing journey.
We'd love to welcome your child to Happy Hands
Secure your child's place at Happy Hands — spaces are limited!
We love to capture the joy and fun of Happy Hands sessions! Please let us know whether you are happy for your child to be photographed during sessions, and whether you give permission for any photos to be shared online. You can say yes to one and no to the other — both choices are completely fine and will be fully respected.
You may withdraw consent at any time by contacting Mrs Hannington. Any previously shared photos will be removed upon request.
We'd love to hear from you — no question is too small!
Message us on WhatsApp — we'll get back to you as soon as we can!
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