Award for Cramlington baby teacher

Posted by The Journal on Jun 25, 09 04:26 PM in News

Julia Maugham with her daughter Rebecca A mum who teaches babies to express themselves has won national praise.

Julia Maugham, a Tiny Talk Baby Signing teacher in Cramlington, has been voted The Most Outstanding Activity/Class Leader in a prestigious national competition.

Julia, who began teaching her classes in September 2007, impressed the judges with "her passionate enthusiasm for the people who attend her classes, both adults and children".

The mum-of-two, 38, said: "I'm thrilled, shocked and humbled to have won.

"Just to be nominated by the mums who come to my classes was amazing and to win the national award is incredible.

"As a group we love baby signing and the joy that early communication with our little ones brings.

"Parenting isn't always easy and can be isolating so it's important when we come together we have fun and celebrate each other's successes as well as offering support when it's needed.

"Most importantly I run the classes around my family life and I'm always there when my children need me, and that is priceless."

Babies are taught how to make signs with their fingers to show they are tired, hungry or in pain at the classes.

Numbers for the sessions are booming as stressed-out parents reach out for help in understanding their little ones.

Katie Mayne, founder of TinyTalk, added: "I am delighted Julia has won this award.

"The TinyTalk ethos is that learning should be fun for everyone. Julia demonstrates this with her inclusive and enjoyable classes and she goes further to support the families."

Julia with daughter Rebecca

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