Welcome to Tiny Talk New Forest. My name's Jen and I am Mummy to 2 1/2 year old Abigail. I hold a BSL, level 1, signing qualification and use Makaton signing, which is based on BSL, in my job as a specialist teacher for children with Autistic Spectrum Disorders.

I decided to become a Tiny Talk teacher soon after Abi was born when I realised there were no classes in the local area for me to take her to. The experience of signing with Abi has made me even more passionate about baby signing and the benefits it brings. From a practical perspective signing has defiantly reduced frustration, with Abi being able to communicate specifically what she wants be it 'food', 'drink' or 'rabbit' - her favourite cuddly toy! However, what I have enjoyed most, is the social communication opportunities that signing brings. On a car journey Abi will point out what she sees; 'cow', 'car', 'tree' or her favourite 'rain' when the window wipers come on!

Abi still comes to classes with me and still signs even though she is a little chatter box now! I am convinced that signing has helped her language development and given her great confidence in communication.

I love passing on our knowledge and experience of signing to other parents and carers. Our classes are full of fun and the best bit for me is seeing all the happy babies watching me intently while I am waving my hands around signing and singing like a mad woman! Come along, join in the fun and experience the benefits of baby signing for yourself.