Dawn Thorpe (Signing Tots Founder) CACDP BSL Level 1 & Signature BSL Level 2
Contact no: 07840 524197
Email: signingtots@live.co.uk
I have a lot of experience of working in the Education sector, particularly in the Early Years Foundation Stage, one of my roles being a Communication Support Worker for Deaf children in two schools. I also have an Early Years Sector Endorsed Foundation Degree and I am City & Guilds qualified to teach adults
I set up Signing Tots 14 years ago. At first we only ran classes for parents and their children but as word spread we quickly moved into nurseries and children centres, delivering our sessions throughout the North East area.
The business then progressed to training organisations to use BSL signs within their settings too. We now have an additional three Licensees that help us deliver our sessions in the County Durham, Tyne & Wear, Teesside & North Yorkshire areas.
Twelve years ago there was not a lot of information about "Baby Signing" so I taught my son Daniel the "Sign with your Baby" programme when he was six months old. I was absolutely astounded when he could express himself to me at 10 mths his needs and wants. I am now pleased to say that there is a lot more information for people that want to learn sign language with their children and I cannot advocate enough the benefits this fabulous expressive language gives us.
Jules Baxter (Signing Tots Licensee) CACDP BSL Level 1 & Signature BSL Level 2
Contact no: 07966 968388
Email: jules_baxter@hotmail.com
Jules is very much the entrepreneur with a lot of experience of running small business's she brings to Signing Tots lots of enthusiasm. She is a busy mum to two young sons and she covers the County Durham areas.
Tracey Kilpatrick (Signing Tots Licensee) Signature BSL Level 1
Contact no: 07982 518624
Email: signingtots1@virginmedia.com
Tracey (mum to two boys) has a background in childcare and is a parent governor with a wealth of knowledge in working with children. She runs classes in Darlington, Catterick, Leeming Bar, Northallerton, Richmond and the surrounding areas of North Yorkshire.