Ideas for Better Communication
Welcome to the Lightbulb Blog - a collection of practical communication tips, research, lived experience and ideas to help make communication more accessible for everyone.
Use Your Words
Communicating with Father Christmas
Including Everyone in the Christmas Performance
Crawling, Midline & Communication
Makaton and Saying Sorry
Musical Cues for Smooth Transitions
Signing & Body Autonomy
Why Makaton Symbols Work for Us
Beyond "Kind Hands"
Why Mr Tumble Matters
More Than "More"
Please & Thank You: Do We Need Them?
Now and Next
Symbol or PECS?
One Hand, Full Communication
Makaton or Sign Language?
Communication Is a Team Effort
Use It or Lose It
Use Your Words
Well-intentioned phrases can sometimes create barriers to communication. Discover why small changes in the language we use can make a big difference.
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Communicating with Father Christmas
Communication is part of the magic. Find out why every Father Christmas should know a few simple Makaton signs.
Including Everyone in the Christmas Performance
A memory that has stayed with me for over 45 years and continues to influence how I think about inclusion, communication and giving every child their moment to shine.
Crawling, Midline & Communication
What does crawling have to do with communication? Explore the fascinating connection between movement, brain development and learning.
Makaton and Saying Sorry
When is the right time to introduce "sorry"? A reflection on helping children develop empathy, not simply learning the word.
Musical Cues for Smooth Transitions
Using music as a communication tool can reduce anxiety, support routines and make moving between activities much easier.
Signing & Body Autonomy
Explore why modelling, choice and consent are at the heart of supporting communication, and how our understanding has changed over time.
Why Makaton Symbols Work for Us
Not all symbol systems are the same. Discover why I choose Makaton symbols and why the right representation always depends on the individual
Beyond "Kind Hands"
Explore why positive, specific language is often more effective than abstract phrases when supporting communication and behaviour.
Why Mr Tumble Matters
More than children's television, Mr Tumble has introduced generations of families to Makaton, helping make communication more visible and inclusive.
More Than "More"
One of the first signs many people learn can also become a limitation. Discover how to use "more" to build vocabulary, not replace it
Please & Thank You: Do We Need Them?
Being able to ask for help, food or the toilet matters more than saying "please". A thought-provoking look at priorities in Makaton
Now and Next
A simple visual tool that can reduce anxiety, support transitions and bring more predictability to everyday routines
Symbol or PECS?
PECS is a communication programme. Symbols are just one tool. Learn why understanding the difference can broaden our approach to communication
One Hand, Full Communication
Makaton is flexible. Discover how adapting signs can make communication more accessible while keeping the focus on connection, not perfection.
Makaton or Sign Language?
Makaton and British Sign Language share some signs, but they're not the same. Learn what makes each unique and why both deserve respect.
Communication Is a Team Effort
Communication works best when it's shared. Explore simple ways family and friends can help someone feel included, understood and valued
Use It or Lose It
Learning Makaton isn't about memorising signs—it's about using them every day. Discover simple ways to make communication part of everyday life