TinyTalk at the Old Barn Hall
TinyTalk at the Old Barn Hall TinyTalk baby signing classes started in January at the Old Barn Hall. The lessons are at 9.30 on Thursday mornings during term time and are suitable for little ones from 0 to 2 years old. Or you could come with your bump to learn to sign before your baby is born! Baby sign language is a form of pre-verbal communication; it helps babies to learn to communicate before they can talk. From as early as 6 to 9 months old, babies can begin to tell you what they want, what they are thinking about and how they feel. I signed with my own two children and was thrilled at being able to communicate with them so young - and grateful to be able to cut out some of the guess work in keeping them happy! I would encourage you to consider learning to sign with your babies so that you can benefit in the same way. Signing babies can also tell you so much more than just their basic needs. For example, they can tell you that they have seen a ‘duck’ in the park or that they are excited if it is ‘bath’ time. To have a form of dialogue with your little one so young and to be able to see so early how their personality is emerging is fascinating and rewarding. Not only do I notice the absence of crying but how much fun and laughter we have together because I can understand his view of the world. Babies’ control of their hands develops long before their control over their vocal cords and co-ordination of the movement of lips, tongue and teeth to make understood speech sounds as recognised words. Baby signing bridges this wide gap, aiding communication and giving them a means to understand everything! Early language development and understanding also encourages early speech as the signs are always said at the same time. Babies’ initial words will be inaccurate but will develop with maturity. Although the class is an hour long, it is meant to be fun! We use familiar songs like baa baa black sheep and the grand old duke of York and include opportunities for tickles, bouncing and toddling too. In the twelve week term we aim to teach 50 core signs but each week there are extra signs taught too for those who have been before or who want to pick up more. The second half of the class provides some unstructured play time for the babies whilst the adults can relax a bit with a coffee and biscuits, make some new friends or chat with me individually to support their learning or ask questions. Baby signing reduces frustration, boosts self-esteem and self-confidence: in short making for very happy parents and carers and even happier babies! You can find out more about baby signing and my classes at www.tinytalk.co.uk/katherinep, contact me at katherinep@tinytalk.co.uk or come along to the Harrison Room to the rear of the Old Barn Hall at 9.30 on a Thursday morning to join us. A 12 week term of classes is £60 but you are welcome to join part way through the term. Our summer term runs until 20th July so there is still lots of time to learn! Katherine Preston – TinyTalk Mole Valley 07599 551882 |
