tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18886879695350047092024-02-20T07:10:15.182-08:00Baby Signing with Sign2MusicThis is the official blog of Sign2Music, Northern Ireland's own baby signing company. A down to earth and honest source of information about baby signing, Sign2Music and lots more!Deirdre McLaughlinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355104111088619155noreply@blogger.comBlogger46125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1888687969535004709.post-86302215590577872342014-07-21T04:50:00.002-07:002014-07-21T04:53:28.187-07:00The world is full of decent people!Hello everyone,<br />
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I have just come home from a day of Sign2Music Teddy Bears Picnics and decided to write a post. I was shocked to realise that it has been over a year since I last wrote a blog post! I think I might need to write another few posts about the events of the past year, but for this post I will focus on a life lesson I learned while preparing for Saturday's Sign2Music Teddy Bears Picnics. Contrary to public opinion, the world is actually full of decent, caring and helpful people!<br />
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Like a lot of people, I use social media, watch the news occasionally, read newspapers and chat to friends, colleagues and acquaintances. There is so much negativity out there and stories showing just how much human beings can hurt each other, that sometimes make you begin to doubt the innate goodness of humankind. It's a subtle thing, there is no sudden realisation that people aren't as caring as you thought they were, but gradually as you see more and more evidence of the selfishness of humankind you just expect less from people and start to accept that perhaps everyone is essentially selfish.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7TtUvx7V9RojOnTSaMU2uMkgRqSeW51UvG4LJ75npn51uC6j4eEhBFPcfrHJOl3L-boKAOWKkxoX-KXSIKszXp4JJcZeQvmtWDmnLN0_tSNv5zcMvh6tWibbO10UsZIELp21SkL7OOI_3/s1600/party+bags.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7TtUvx7V9RojOnTSaMU2uMkgRqSeW51UvG4LJ75npn51uC6j4eEhBFPcfrHJOl3L-boKAOWKkxoX-KXSIKszXp4JJcZeQvmtWDmnLN0_tSNv5zcMvh6tWibbO10UsZIELp21SkL7OOI_3/s1600/party+bags.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a>If anyone reading this knows me well, they will realise that I am a perfectionist and a little bit of a control freak. I have been planning Teddy Bears Picnics for 19th July in Ballynahinch and Newcastle since June. I planned these for weeks beforehand, because I wanted them to be a memorable and enjoyable experience for everyone. I decided I wanted to give the children party bags, with personalised bubbles and teddy bear themed snacks. I ordered 50 plain white party bags off ebay. 2 days before the party I was finishing off the party bags and realised I seemed to have a lot of stuff left over. I counted the party bags and realised I had only been sent 40. It was 11.30pm on Thursday night and the parties were on Saturday. It was too late to contact the ebay seller as, even if they were posted the following day, the bags would not arrive until Saturday, which would be too late! </div>
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I scratched my head quietly pondered what to do next. OK, truth is my pondering was not very quiet, more like flipping my lid and running about the room like a headless chicken, shouting about how the party was going to be ruined and the children disappointed! As a long shot, I posted on Facebook to see if anyone knew where I could get these bags at short notice, not expecting much. I got replies immediately from 3 people who had 10 bags they were willing to give me, 2 of these people I know well as they attend my classes, the third I know of as he has an electrical shop not far from me. <a href="http://www.dr-electric.co.uk/">Dr Electric</a> sent me a message to say he had 10 bags that could pick up that night if I wanted them. By this stage it was almost midnight, but he met me at his house and gave me the bags I needed. He didn't ask for money. He didn't ask for anything. All he was doing was helping out a practical stranger. I was moved by this act of kindness from someone I had never met before.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkAZsS-eFiXajLZgb0J6E8ZvQT63pt2oEYrsxxpKyGIMa6cH7FOocG3wralkxVsabL7S0oDvzYkQrPzcZ-X37AuJ82qXd2h-KKGsZw5qYwrY1kRmFqmXMED-GV7UEfPONcWc9tClkbgzQT/s1600/lilys+cookies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkAZsS-eFiXajLZgb0J6E8ZvQT63pt2oEYrsxxpKyGIMa6cH7FOocG3wralkxVsabL7S0oDvzYkQrPzcZ-X37AuJ82qXd2h-KKGsZw5qYwrY1kRmFqmXMED-GV7UEfPONcWc9tClkbgzQT/s1600/lilys+cookies.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a>After our teddy bears picnic, we have a cuppa and snacks for the adults and snacks for the children. I had mentioned to Lily, my child minder, that I was finding it difficult to find biscuits or buns that are nut free. I am not a great cook, but my daughters and I made some buns and bought some nut free food. The night before the party Lily arrived at my house unexpectedly with big tray with a selection of shortbread and cookies, all nut free. Another act of kindness and selflessness.</div>
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The parties went really well and we had such a fun day. Every child left with a party bag and we had more than enough yummy goodies for our tea afterwards.</div>
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I want to take the opportunity to thank all those who came to my Sign2Music Teddy Bears Picnics in Newcastle and Ballynahinch and helped make them so enjoyable. Particular thanks to Dr Electric and Lily for their selfless acts, that not only helped make the events happen, but restored my faith in the human nature!<br />
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Deirdre :)<br />
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<span id="goog_1761753474"></span><span id="goog_1761753475"><br /></span>Deirdre McLaughlinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355104111088619155noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1888687969535004709.post-67525270529456234532013-04-01T03:50:00.002-07:002013-04-01T03:50:58.051-07:00Signing Sandy makes his TV debut!I have just opened an e-mail to confirm what I have been hoping would materialise for months. Sign2Music recently filmed a television pilot episode featuring Signing Sandy and Deirdre. This pilot was presented to a group who loved it and it will be shown to N Ireland audiences at the end of the year. If favourably received, we will be asked to make our first TV series!<br />
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Woohoo!! I will let you know when the first episode is airing. Hope you all tune in!<br />
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<sup class="reference" id="cite_ref-MBC_2-0"></sup>Deirdre McLaughlinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355104111088619155noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1888687969535004709.post-13247826796787875922013-02-25T16:48:00.002-08:002013-02-25T16:48:27.988-08:00Quality matters!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_FVw9WuJqzzZAS7iqcz37CfoStq8MX_N1aVi4lsrEI8w9M9oAind6TUT8Fx9RIEYKhEWtTtoJ6PEfaWm-FgGvfoVieuhJmKCDrQJI7m3Lzt84JtqXBtIgrdMEXQfy-qIFYPYi5rRLr1tA/s1600/netmums_winner_2012_badge.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_FVw9WuJqzzZAS7iqcz37CfoStq8MX_N1aVi4lsrEI8w9M9oAind6TUT8Fx9RIEYKhEWtTtoJ6PEfaWm-FgGvfoVieuhJmKCDrQJI7m3Lzt84JtqXBtIgrdMEXQfy-qIFYPYi5rRLr1tA/s200/netmums_winner_2012_badge.png" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcRbLKl3caEi5qXegop0QQmtxb9bnOn6zI3UROs_tujmNfFW8wAmTG1_zw7HgVM4DrAx4Qt0KxEVohAA3jGHjFiCAuMXHNg889nJaLobkkLUIirsXf1hWUeXPUdmpNJLzcMktaLy9-DFKp/s1600/Winner_Arial+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="187" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcRbLKl3caEi5qXegop0QQmtxb9bnOn6zI3UROs_tujmNfFW8wAmTG1_zw7HgVM4DrAx4Qt0KxEVohAA3jGHjFiCAuMXHNg889nJaLobkkLUIirsXf1hWUeXPUdmpNJLzcMktaLy9-DFKp/s200/Winner_Arial+copy.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFYfZUr2CAWfijTZ3K_DyRUZGRsLZjlVxQgPFmP8nsQwd-Ya11QakfR1L95NkKDt6yENnRkQaZoGQg199L7rzQAvYAeIeHR1Ix9P2KMz0mamaENXvJcJFT9Rl8A_1IRW3X_XTxQw3B5hzH/s1600/4617765.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFYfZUr2CAWfijTZ3K_DyRUZGRsLZjlVxQgPFmP8nsQwd-Ya11QakfR1L95NkKDt6yENnRkQaZoGQg199L7rzQAvYAeIeHR1Ix9P2KMz0mamaENXvJcJFT9Rl8A_1IRW3X_XTxQw3B5hzH/s200/4617765.jpg" width="136" /></a> </div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Most of you know that Sign2Music have won a number of Awards, some voted for by parents and others selected by experts. We are very proud of these Awards as they reflect the emphasis we place on providing a quality service. </span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">I have been
thinking recently about how little most people know about how much is involved
in preparing for our sessions. Of course we do not simply throw props in a bag
and 'wing it'! No, of course we are always well prepared, so we can ensure our
sessions are as good as they could possibly be! </span><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">In the early days of setting up Sign2Music sleep
was an unknown phenomenon to me. I was so committed to developing quality
programmes and, being such a perfectionist, spent every available hour
researching and preparing. I still work long hours and commit 110% to
everything I do. </span><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">I spent most of
tonight (about 5 hours) getting ready for a 45 min class in a nursery tomorrow.
I am covering a topic I haven't done before, so even before tonight I have been
researching the topic, writing new songs and speaking to the amazing friends I
have who share their ideas with me. Setting up a new playlist and searching for
backing tracks alone took up a number of hours. I then had to print out and
laminate the resources I need for the topic. Then I had to pack my back with
all the props needed and pack the car. </span><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">It is not unusual
for me to spend this time preparing for a session. Even though I have got my
preparation time reduced significantly, the night before my classes is still reserved
for getting ready for my classes, checking song lists, packing the bag,
preparing snacks and refreshments, etc. I have that many bags that even packing
the car takes a while! When it comes to nursery training, teacher training or
presentations at conferences, preparation time can be much much longer.</span><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">You may wonder if I
spend too much time preparing because I am rubbish at what I do or wonder at my
business sense. However, the reason I, and the other Sign2Music teachers, spend
so much time ensuring we are well prepared is because the end result actually
matters to us!</span><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Sign2Music has a
strong value base. We have a set of core values. One of our key values is <strong><span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Quality. </span></strong>Our
values state:</span><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<em><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">"</span></em><strong><i><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;"> </span></i></strong><em><span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: Verdana; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">We are committed to
delivering quality programmes that we can be proud of. We genuinely care about
the views of service users think and will endeavour to gain their views about
our services. We carefully select our teachers to ensure that only those with appropriate
skills, experience and values join us."</span></em><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">So if you are wondering why Sign2Music differs from
a lot of other children's programmes and why our programmes are value for
money, this is why. We really care about what you think. We really want our programmes
to make a difference and we really want our teachers to be the best!</span><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial;">Quality really does matter in Sign2Music!</span><span style="font-family: Verdana;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
Deirdre McLaughlinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355104111088619155noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1888687969535004709.post-29288665885134941732012-10-30T03:38:00.000-07:002012-10-30T03:40:30.835-07:00Being a parent - The most important job in the world!In a blog written in Nov 2011 I shared my views on the importance of bonding and attachment. This post was entitled <a href="http://www.sign2music.blogspot.co.uk/2011_11_01_archive.html">love is the answer</a>. Interestingly a year later I came across this great <a href="http://www.medicaldaily.com/articles/12936/20121029/chilling-brain-scans-show-impact-mothers-love.htm">article</a>. It highlights so clearly how HUGELY important relationships and connections in the first two years of life are in shaping a baby's brain development and ultimately their future. <br />
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Babies are born already connected and are able to imitate facial expressions from birth. This discovery was made in the 1970s and has caused significant discussion among developmental psychologists. This video shows a 10 minute old baby imitating daddy:<br />
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The most signifcant period of brain cell development is in the first 2 years of life. It is shocking how important and potentially far reaching our behaviour is in our child's early years. In exteme cases of neglect / lack of love a baby's brain is wired for crime, violence, unemployment and substance misuse. This information can worry a lot of parents who have experienced post natal depression, domestic violence or other circumstances that meant they were not able to connect with their baby as much as they would have liked. I know I worry about Cara being in SCBU, which meant I was unable to have physical contact with her for those crucial first days. Of course I do not think that this lack of contact will directly result in her becoming a mass murderer, but I do think it is detrimental which is why I signed with her and have showered her with as much love as I have in me!</div>
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I have always said being a parent is the most important job in the world. How great a responsibility is it to know that you can potentially wire your children for love, success and happiness, as you are shaping and moulding the world's future! Hopefully this information will make those night feeds less frustrating, the screaming less sore on the ears, the messy house easier to cope with! </div>
<br />Deirdre McLaughlinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355104111088619155noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1888687969535004709.post-22950541080125344402012-09-15T08:27:00.003-07:002012-09-15T08:27:43.458-07:00Gifts in My Life<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu9i5pv5K5U8Zmn-zBjcSsDADUSzct5XEvaBehDZEv3TiXcom1jk7aFIKWMVxqNbsQv3TJ-uADPS9OgxEKPV3FUJPOs3yNWbwtZ3WciiFIZ5E-0b-w8i_0vf-b9HEdc1x2Xj0d57eF0pHU/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="165" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu9i5pv5K5U8Zmn-zBjcSsDADUSzct5XEvaBehDZEv3TiXcom1jk7aFIKWMVxqNbsQv3TJ-uADPS9OgxEKPV3FUJPOs3yNWbwtZ3WciiFIZ5E-0b-w8i_0vf-b9HEdc1x2Xj0d57eF0pHU/s200/photo.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Daddy & I on my wedding day</td></tr>
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As many of you may know I have recently lost my beloved daddy after a short but courageous battle with lung cancer. He lived 3 short months during which he suffered terribly and passed away on 7 July 2012. </div>
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Since daddy died I have reflected a lot on our relationship, the gifts he has given me and his influence on my life. He was a colourful character who knew everyone, would talk the leg off a stool and smoked like a train! He was also the kindest, most loving person I have ever met. He gave so much to others and changed and influenced the lives of many. I am very proud and lucky to be his daughter! <br />
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Daddy has always been so proud of me for establishing Sign2Music and watched with pride as it blossomed. Initially a sceptic, he was a strong advocate of the benefits of the joys of signing, having seen it first hand with Cara and later with my nephews. I think the Seven Thirty Show got it's biggest viewing figures ever the night Sign2Music featured. He phoned everyone he knew (a LOT of people!) to tell them to watch it! He asked all his friends and family to vote for Sign2Music in 2011 and 2012 What's On 4 Little Ones Awards and I am sure those votes helped us reach the final in both years. The first thing I did after collecting my Award for Best Use of Social Media and Online Technologies in the Down Council Beyond business Awards was to send him a text. He was so proud, even though at that stage he was in terrible pain.<br />
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When I reflect on the gifts my daddy has given me I keep coming back to one word....love! He always loved me unconditionally and exuded love in his life, helping and touching so many people. Like him I always follow my heart. Of course this had led to some very poor decisions in my life but it is because I follow my heart that Sign2Music is now in existence! <br />
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When I decided to try baby signing with Cara I had no idea what a life changing decision it would be. It was obvious to me when I first read about it that it was something special. I read every book I could get my hands on and trawled the internet for hours and hours on end. It was such an amazing experience that touched and ignited something in me. My heart screamed at me that I had to share it! It is fair to say that Sign2Music is my labour of love and the product of much blood, sweat and tears! <br />
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In the past 5 years my passion and love for Sign2Music has grown and grown as I see more and more evidence of how powerful it is. Like everyone I have moments of doubt. I wonder if am are doing the right thing, getting the work-life balance right. I am not a natural 'business woman', so these moments usually occur when I have to deal with something difficult or the dreaded admin / finances have to be tackled. However, the wonderful feedback I get from parents, carers, teachers, etc. is what fuels my passion and reassures me to keep following my heart.<br />
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There have been so many ups and downs the past few months while daddy was ill. So many times I went into a class with a heavy heart, but always left smiling from ear to ear. When I was feeling most low there was always fab news about one of the children doing their first sign or having a signing explosion. I heard wonderful stories shared by parents and had the most gorgeous smiles and hugs from the little ones. How could anyone feel sad for long while doing such a beautiful job?<br />
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Many of you reading this have been the most wonderful comfort to me in the past few months and have got me through some tough times without realising it. I have met some wonderful people through Sign2Music and many of you have become valued friends.<br />
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I want to take this opportunity to say how I appreciate all the gifts I have been given in my life: A wonderful father who loved and inspired me; A great family who encourage me; And last but not least..... Sign2Music and all of you who support me to continue to do something I love so much!<br />
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Deirdre x</div>
Deirdre McLaughlinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355104111088619155noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1888687969535004709.post-76039217588477363372012-09-03T03:30:00.001-07:002012-09-03T03:30:48.166-07:00Beyond End Of Summer BBQ A Networking Sizzler<a href="http://www.downnews.co.uk/?p=31936#.UESCsivTKvI.blogger">Beyond End Of Summer BBQ A Networking Sizzler | Down News</a><br />
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This article in the Down News summarises a fun networking evening faciliated by the Beyond Programme. I was very priviledged to be asked to be one of the speakers at the event. I was a tiny bit nervous before the event as I knew I would be speaking in front of some well respected business owners and local councillors. I had also decided to take a risk and add an element of fun to the presentation by showing all present how to sign 'Old McDonald had a Farm'. It could have gone down like a lead balloon. Luckily everyone joined in and we had a bit of fun!<br />
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For those who have not heard of Beyond, it provides great networking opportunities and business support for small businesses in the Down Council area. Through Beyond I have been able to connect with some great local businesses. I have been able to avail of affordable business support, including much needed advice on accounts and access to a mentor for IT support. I also entered and reached the final in 3 categories of the Beyond Business Awards 2012. I am very proud to be the winner in the Best Use of Social Media and Online Technologies category. The Awards ceremony back in May was marvellous! <br />
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It was only sitting down to prepare the presentation that made me realise how much support I have actually gained from Beyond in the past year. I truly appreciate this support and would encourage anyone who has a small business to check out <a href="http://www.beyondni.co.uk/">Beyond</a> for great advice and support.Deirdre McLaughlinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355104111088619155noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1888687969535004709.post-77461225297529169762012-06-07T02:26:00.001-07:002012-06-07T15:26:04.733-07:00The Blossom Method is finally available!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDllc36I68tidA83OYlk_6uHkfgpxnJHuyMk0idx6WSYXbERUkbPnOnMhh0tVAJ4PELz0YZ3DxKdVDDoMxbqpQS9c7qcRWJ0ZRpO08MgtK6xfawf-rk9fDSt6LPq1QOWrnct-QF3jh1hq2/s1600/The+blossom+method.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDllc36I68tidA83OYlk_6uHkfgpxnJHuyMk0idx6WSYXbERUkbPnOnMhh0tVAJ4PELz0YZ3DxKdVDDoMxbqpQS9c7qcRWJ0ZRpO08MgtK6xfawf-rk9fDSt6LPq1QOWrnct-QF3jh1hq2/s200/The+blossom+method.jpg" width="126" /></a>Today is the day so many people have been waiting for. It's the official day of publication of 'The Blossom Method', by Vivien Sabel, published by Random House. I truly believe this groundbreaking book will be hugely influential in the field of parenting and childcare forever and I for one am hugely excited about what's to come! The book outlines a simple way of using non-verbal cues to understand what your baby is telling you FROM BIRTH! I have had the priviledge of reading the book already as I attended the launch party on 29 May. One of my observations was that The Blossom Method is not complicated but a very simple, beautiful and natural communication and bonding experience. So simple that parents and carers have been watching babies using their tongue and body to communicate for years, but we haven't understood it's significance!!</div>
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The reason Vivien and her daughter Blossom were the ones to make these discoveries are to do with Vivien's life experiences and history. She is the daughter of a non-signing deaf mother. Vivien and her mother have no problems communicating at all, they use non-verbal cues to do so. This has made Vivien totally in tune with the body language of others. I know this as we have 'skyped' a few times and she was able to tell when my facial expressions and body language have not been congruent with my utterances. She had me totally sussed from the moment we 'met'!</div>
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When Vivien had her daughter Blossom, she was able to tell by her tongue, lips, body and smell when she was hungry, tired and even sick. It was so natural to her that she assumed everyone else was doing it too. When she discovered they weren't she just knew she had stumbled upon something amazing that she just had to share with the world and the seeds of The Blossom Method were sown!</div>
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I have got to know Vivien well over the past few months and she has become a very treasured friend. When she asked me to be a speaker at the launch of The Blossom Method in the Hotel Du Vin in Harrogate on 29th May I knew I had to be there! It was a fabulous evening. Not only did I get to meet Vivien and some of the amazing people I have met or got to know better on twitter (affectionately known as my #twitmates) but I got to hear what others said and to share my views on The Blossom Method. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu1KBPBhg3Kv-6cbz9RVS3OpBrpFI0HurDZ_-7z3gVj4G5IyNInAsCHQ4AMi6OYRqCkWIQCOvNr_xWA4Bv5i7gSssOdbSQBalCtRjpXGO0sIHu2dhbje5So137YbFCB8u5JDFMzOTfLc7e/s1600/Deirdre+%2526+Blossom.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu1KBPBhg3Kv-6cbz9RVS3OpBrpFI0HurDZ_-7z3gVj4G5IyNInAsCHQ4AMi6OYRqCkWIQCOvNr_xWA4Bv5i7gSssOdbSQBalCtRjpXGO0sIHu2dhbje5So137YbFCB8u5JDFMzOTfLc7e/s200/Deirdre+%2526+Blossom.JPG" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With the lovely Blossom</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vivien and Blossom</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me speaking at the event while Vivien signs</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yummy cupcakes!</td></tr>
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I explained to everyone that one of the main reasons I started Sign2Music was that I was impressed how signing with my daughter Cara not only helped support communication and reduce frustration but also supported attunement and connectedness in our relationship and ultimately enhanced our bond. I have seen the consequences of poor attachment in my job and follow the current research that shows how poor attachment contributes to lack of empathy, propensity to violence, mental health and addictions. The Blossom Method was like music to my ears. I have been looking for something that can enhance very early communication before the benefits of signing really kick in. I believe The Blossom Method is this 'something'! Vivien explains in her book how to move from using The Blossom Method techniques to baby signing and it is a very natural and beautiful progression.<br />
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I know there are a lot of people wanting to know exactly what The Blossom Method 'techniques' are. All I can say is, if you have a young baby or are pregnant please buy this book. If you have a friend or family member that does, forget about buying babygros as a gift, buy them this book. They will truly thank you for it. It is a little gem!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sharon Trotter (TIPS Ltd), Moi, <br />
Vivien, Vicki</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vicki Gilbert (Babies Can Sign/ Tinysigners), <br />
Moi, Vivien Sabel, Heather Avul (Tinytalk Leicester)</td></tr>
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</div>Deirdre McLaughlinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355104111088619155noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1888687969535004709.post-48290352383947592482012-06-05T03:48:00.003-07:002012-06-05T03:48:52.573-07:00A Win for Sign2Music in Down Council BeyondNI Business Awards 2012<div class="opening_paragraph">
<a href="http://www.beyondni.co.uk/">BeyondNI</a> is a business programme targeted towards supporting existing businesses of all sizes within the Down district area. The Beyond programme facilitated 'Business Week', a week of events in May culminating in the Beyond NI Business Awards, held at the Slieve Donard Hotel in Newcastle. The Awards were largely funded by Invest NI and supported and hosted by Down Council.</div>
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We were delighted to hear in early May that Sign2Music was <a href="http://www.downnews.co.uk/2012-down-news-archive/may-2012/business-2012-may/beyond-business-awards-finalists-announced">leading the way as a finalist</a> in 3 categories:</div>
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- Best Use of Social Media and Online Technologies</div>
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- Chairpersons Special Recognition Award</div>
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I was so excited about the Awards. It mean a lot to me being selected as a finalist because the Beyond Awards are local business Awards and the winners picked by council officials and business experts. I was also excited because it was a proper formal Award Ceremony in an amazing 5 star hotel, the works!<br />
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I couldn't wait to tell my family, the Sign2Music teachers and of course the parents, carers and others who take part in Sign2Music programmes that we had reached the final. Everyone was over the moon and it was time to get to the preparations in earnest! Who would look after the kids? Long dress or short? What colour? What shoes? Tie or dickie bow for the men? The list goes on.....</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitR2aqbStZMVQ2FDrPhu7IpW4llT0h32CoaJfiqqMuFg-tUvIKMbCyZXYj887fl3u4zM4tgfbAD2mk0_YGPOmz5iTILSGbnhoX5S-RxCwDaf_SoqDyNG8R-WopfiiftVNJWLUBy9W4pLVZ/s1600/The+O'Neills+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitR2aqbStZMVQ2FDrPhu7IpW4llT0h32CoaJfiqqMuFg-tUvIKMbCyZXYj887fl3u4zM4tgfbAD2mk0_YGPOmz5iTILSGbnhoX5S-RxCwDaf_SoqDyNG8R-WopfiiftVNJWLUBy9W4pLVZ/s200/The+O'Neills+2.jpg" width="200" /></a>We eventually got all the preparations sorted. Our family are a bit like the Griswalds, so of course there were a few dramas, like last minute alterations needing done to the dress and Cara deciding tonight was the night to cry after mummy and daddy! And of course a 15 minute drive took half an hour as everyone and their granny had decided to go to Newcastle that night. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglANqY4pN0E4QtaQUqY6Sw-KuiyysxYrL2yA8OX1lJ84E8xSz_rXJRHQYtUsQe6nmc_Le2ZIWg6ZiOnkn10QVlS6QTd0CNURmOLwxewiM3ef7IsyiniuBuQoVWsKWMCAzsq6OiCKOaemRa/s1600/Deirdre+at+Slieve+Donard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglANqY4pN0E4QtaQUqY6Sw-KuiyysxYrL2yA8OX1lJ84E8xSz_rXJRHQYtUsQe6nmc_Le2ZIWg6ZiOnkn10QVlS6QTd0CNURmOLwxewiM3ef7IsyiniuBuQoVWsKWMCAzsq6OiCKOaemRa/s200/Deirdre+at+Slieve+Donard.jpg" width="200" /></a>We drove into the grounds of the Slieve Donard and were taken aback at how beautiful it was on such a sunny evening, even though we had been there so many times before. Before going in for the event we spent some time enjoying the view and soaking up the beauty of the setting. The Slieve Donard is a beautiful 5 star hotel in Newcastle, Co Down, at the foot of the Mourne Mountains. </div>
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We had a fantastic meal and the event was hosted by Dermot Curran, Chairperson of Down Council and Sarah Travers from BBC Newsline. We also had entertainment by a local comedian. When the time came for the Awards presentations we were all well fed and entertained, but getting more nervous by the minute!</div>
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The Awards were announced one by one. </div>
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1. <strong>The Dundrum Inn</strong> won the <strong>Customer Service Excellence Award.</strong> </div>
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2. <strong>Wildflower Boutique</strong> won <strong>Best Kept Business Premises Award</strong></div>
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3.<strong> Crossgar Foodservice</strong> won <strong>Training and People Development</strong>, one of the categories Sign2Music was a finalist in. Crossgar Foodservice was a very well deserved winner. Well done!</div>
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4<strong>. Alternative Heat Ltd Best</strong> won <strong>Export Business </strong></div>
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5.<strong> Best Use of Social Media and Online Technologies Export Business. </strong></div>
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When this Award was being announced we were sitting on the edge of our seats. I will never forget how amazing it felt to hear the words SIGN 2 MUSIC echo through the hall. The walk to the stage and collecting the Award was a blur. It was great to see so many familiar faces sharing the applause as we returned to our seats including Jim Masson from <a href="http://www.downnews.co.uk/">Down News</a> the 2011 winner of this Award.</div>
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6. <strong>Ballymote Community Project Ltd</strong> won <strong>Best Community / Social Enterprise.</strong></div>
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7. <strong>NI Bootcamp </strong>won<strong> Best New Business.</strong></div>
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8. <strong>Platinum Recruitment </strong>won <strong>Best Marketing Campaign.</strong></div>
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9. <strong>Laura McGreevy, Mange Tout </strong>won <strong>Employee of the Year</strong></div>
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10. <strong>Boatcovers Ireland </strong>won <strong>Best Small Business</strong></div>
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11. <strong>Stephen Mayne, Mayne Communications </strong>won <b>Dermot Curran Young Achiever</b></div>
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12. <strong>Charlene Molloy, Henderson’s Spar, Ardglass </strong>won <strong>Chairman’s Special Recognition </strong>another of the categories Sign2Music was a finalist in. Charlene was a very well deserved winner. Well done!</div>
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After the Awards were announced the offical photographs were taken. Anyone who knows me will know I never miss an opporuntity to promote Sign2Music so made sure I got a chance to tell the lovely Sarah Travers about what we do and how wonderful it is. She was genuinely interested in Sign2Music and how we find Social Media useful. She did confess to not being too savvy with the intricacies of Facebook and Twitter!</div>
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We left shortly after the photos were taken but the party had only started with all the guests, including local businesses, council officials and political representatives boogying the night away! I did not want to let the children and parents in Ballynahinch down by turning up in a mess the next morning so made an early exit!</div>
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And of course the following week we appeared in the local newspapers both<a href="http://www.downnews.co.uk/2012-down-news-archive/may-2012/business-2012-may/down-district-businesses-honoured-at-awards-night"> online</a> and in print:</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Down Recorder 30 May 2012</td></tr>
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It truly was a magical night and one that I will never forget. I am so grateful that our hard work was recognised in relation to making social media an intergral part of what we do. However, it is important to say that social media is not something that the Sign2Music teachers and I do in isolation. The term <strong>social </strong>media says it all, it can only work through interaction with others. The parents and other businesses who support us and interact with us using social media deserve this Award every bit as much as us so CONGRATULATIONS TO YOU ALL and thanks for helping this happen for us!</div>
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Deirdre :)</div>Deirdre McLaughlinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355104111088619155noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1888687969535004709.post-41007741166311851632012-06-02T15:53:00.002-07:002012-06-02T15:53:40.550-07:00Daisy Doggy Supersigner 2012Sign2Music has held a Daisy Doggy Supersigner competition since 2010 to celebrate our birthday. Each year parents and carers send in photographs and videos of their little ones signing and the Sign2Music teachers each vote for their winner. <br />
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2012 has by far been the most amazing year yet. We have had some super entries. So many fantastic children. We have been humbled this year with the signing experiences we have seen and heard shared. Despite the common perception that children do not do their first sign until 6 - 9 months we have had a number of children sign before this age. We have also had the benefits of signing for early literacy reinforced as we have seen some children sign letters as young as 12 months!<br />
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The following children impressed us so much and will receive a Daisy Doggy Supersigner 2012 certificate from their local teacher:<br />
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- <strong>Noah </strong>from Newcastle classes, who at 12 months, was able to sign letters, notably the letters for his sisters names. He also showed us how he can sign BABY in another video.<br />
- <strong>Daisy</strong> from Bangor for her wonderul and energetic performance of Twinkle Twinkle Little Star.<br />
<strong>- Lucy </strong>from North Belfast for showing us lots of animal signs and singing and signing Insy Winsy Spider and Horsey Horsey<br />
- <strong>Orlaidh </strong>who attends Ballynahinch classes for her signing of her favourite song, Miss Polly had a Dolly. We have loads of videos of Orlaidh signing from she was a little baby. She is a fab signer!<br />
- <strong>Ellie</strong> from Ballynahinch classes for signing along with Little Daisy Doggy while on a car journey. Her speech was so clear too!<br />
- <strong>Caden </strong>from Ballynahinch classes for signing MORE and for his fab fingerspelling and singing our alphabet song.<br />
- <strong>William </strong>from Newcastle classes for signing NAPPY CHANGE. William was one of our early signers this year.<br />
- <strong>Ryan </strong>from North Belfast for his super fingerspelling and singing our alphabet song<br />
- <strong>Ruby </strong>from Newcastle classes for signing MORE<br />
<strong>- Norah </strong>from Whiteabbey who we caught on camera in class signing MUMMY and BATH<br />
- <strong>Olivia</strong> from North Belfast for signing MILK and BATH<br />
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These fab videos can be found on the Supersigners playlist on our <a href="http://www.youtube.com/sign2music1">You Tube Channel</a> or in the videos tab of our <a href="http://www,facebook.com/sign2music1">Facebook</a> page<br />
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However there can only be one winner. There was a very clear winner..............<br />
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<strong>DANIEL</strong> is the 2012 Daisy Doggy Supersigner Competition winner!!!! Daniel is 18 months old and is a dedciated Sign2Music participant, having attended classes in Ballynahinch for a number of terms. His mum and dad both attend classes with him every Saturday and are very committed to signing with Daniel. They are happy to share with others how beneficial signing with Daniel has been for them. The videos below show Daniel demonstrating some of his huge signed vocabulary:<br />
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Well done Daniel and his mum and dad. I am a very proud teacher too! Looking forward to presenting you with your Daisy Doggy next Saturday!!!</div>
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Congratulations to all all those who entered and those who are receiving the Daisy Doggy Super Signer Certificates!</div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, "Times New Roman", serif;"><em>Deirdre</em></span></div>Deirdre McLaughlinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355104111088619155noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1888687969535004709.post-81899330228139605902012-05-31T02:21:00.002-07:002012-05-31T02:21:59.215-07:00What a Wonderful Month!What an amazing month it has been for Sign2Music. First of all we heard that we are a finalist in the What's On 4 Little Ones Awards (Best Local Activity for Under 5s and Most Outstanding Activity Leader for Under 5s, Deirdre MCLaughlin) and received a shiny new badge:<br />
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Then we heard we are finalists in the Netmums Favourites Awards for Preschool Classes in both <a href="http://www.netmums.com/northern-ni/places-to-go/preschool-classes/vote-for-your-favourite-preschool-class">Northern NI</a> and <a href="http://www.netmums.com/southern-ni/places-to-go/preschool-classes/vote-for-your-favourite-preschool-class">Southern NI</a> areas and got another shiny badge!</div>
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As if we weren't excited enough we discovered we were finalists in 3 categories in the Down Business Awards: Best Use of Social Media and Online Technologies, Training and Development and Chairpersons Special Recognition. We attended an amazing Awards ceremony in The Slieve Donard Hotel and WON AN AWARD for Best Use of Social Media and Online Technologies. We are absolutely delighted and will blog about this event later.</div>
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I was invited to Harrogate on 29th May to attend the launch of a fabulous book on baby communication, The Blossom Method, by my friend Vivien Sabel who is the author. I had the pleasure of speaking at this event and will blog about the event and the book later. This picture is me with my #twitmates Vicki Gilbert, Babies Can Sign, Vivien Sabel (author of The Blossom Method) and Heather Avul, Tinytalk Leicester:<br />
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Phew my feet haven't touched the ground this month, but it has been a wonderful month in many ways. Looking forward to blogging about what I have been doing and bringing you the news this weekend about the winner of our Daisy Doggy Supersigner Competition 2012!</div>
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Deirdre x</div>
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</div>Deirdre McLaughlinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355104111088619155noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1888687969535004709.post-40977847470902912132012-05-10T00:46:00.000-07:002012-05-10T00:46:38.353-07:00Deaf Awareness Week 7th to 13th May 2012It is <strong>Deaf Awareness Week</strong> from 7th to 13th May 2012. People are often think Sign2Music is an organisation solely for deaf children. Most of our service users are in fact hearing children and their families, carers and educators.<br />
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We do work alongside groups that support deaf children and this would be a good week to highlight some of these groups:<br />
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The <strong>National Deaf Children Society (NDCS)</strong> in N Ireland provide a variety of great services for deaf children and their families. If you have a deaf child please do check out the services they offer.<br />
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<a href="http://www.ndcs.org.uk/family_support/support_in_your_area/northern_ireland/index.html">http://www.ndcs.org.uk/family_support/support_in_your_area/northern_ireland/index.html</a><br />
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Sign2Music supports NDCS, delivering sessions for many of their events. Alison (our teacher in Bangor / Ards) works as an NDCS volunteer also. I will be facilitating a session for parents and a Sign and Sing session for children on Sunday 13th May at Jordanstown School for the <em>Communication is Fun</em> event. I also was invited to a super fun day on Mon 7th May organised by a new group called <em>Sound Friends Deaf Children's Society. </em>This is a local group in Portadown, run by parents and carers of deaf children. There are also similar groups in other areas <br />
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The <strong>British Deaf Association (BDA)</strong> is the largest UK Deaf-led organisation. BDA represents the British Sign Language community and promotes British Sign Language, Deaf Culture and Deaf Identity The BDA works to promote equal rights for and to stop discrimination against Sign Language users.<br />
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<a href="http://www.bda.org.uk/">http://www.bda.org.uk</a><br />
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Sign2Music took part in successful events with the BDA for Belfast Culture Night 2010 and 2011, promoting sign language and Deaf culture. <br />
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Sign2Music programmes do not use <strong>sign language</strong> per se, but vocabulary or <strong>signs</strong> taken from sign language (British Sign Language, NI Regional Signs), used alongside speech. We endeavour to ensure that the signs we use are accurate regional signs. We have a huge respect for the Deaf community and the beautiful language we have borrowed from them. We promote and encourage our teachers and service users to learn sign language through local colleges, etc. Many parents who have attended our classes have undertaken BSL qualifications, Stage 1, 2 and even 3! Some of our teachers had no previous sign language training and had to undertake this training to enable them to practice as a Sign2Music teacher. While the basic requirement is Stage 1, some of our teachers developed such a love for the language that they have gone on to do Stage 2 and 3!<br />
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Other organisations include:<br />
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<strong>Signature </strong>promotes excellence in communication with deaf and deafblind people. They are an awarding body providing a range of qualifications through accredited centres in sign language and communication. <a href="http://www.signature.org.uk/">http://www.signature.org.uk</a><br />
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<strong>Action on Hearing Loss</strong> is the new name for RNID (Royal National Institute for the Deaf). They help those who are deaf or have a hearing loss access
services, receive equipment, care and support. <a href="http://www.actiononhearingloss.org.uk/about-us/northern-ireland.aspx">http://www.actiononhearingloss.org.uk/about-us/northern-ireland.aspx</a><br />
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If you know of any other organisations in Northern Ireland that support deaf children please leave a comment.<br />
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Deirdre :)Deirdre McLaughlinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355104111088619155noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1888687969535004709.post-74472206176102988232012-05-08T04:16:00.001-07:002012-05-08T04:16:19.381-07:00Beyond Business Awards Finalists Announced<a href="http://www.downnews.co.uk/2012-down-news-archive/may-2012/business-2012-may/beyond-business-awards-finalists-announced#.T6j_FSnfhUk.blogger">Beyond Business Awards Finalists Announced</a><br />
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What a lovely surprise I had this morning when I 'opened' the online newspaper, Down News. The finalists for the Beyond Business Awards have been announced and as you can see I am LEADING the way. I am beyond delighted! There was a great caliber of entries and my fellow finalists are some of Down's best businesses.<br />
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The Award Ceremony will take place on Friday 25 May in the Slieve Donard Hotel, Newcastle. The next step is to find some suitable attire for the Gala Event. Fancy frocks don't exactly fill my wardrobe of course!<br />
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Look forward to sharing the experience with you all via social media and of course will do a very special blog after the event!<br />
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Thanks everyone!<br />
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A very happy Deirdre :)Deirdre McLaughlinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355104111088619155noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1888687969535004709.post-14691161798180190472012-05-06T06:09:00.002-07:002012-05-06T06:09:37.922-07:00Happy Birthday Signing Sandy and Daisy Doggy!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMeRZ3hDypeyQC2R2RxEq6mDmcDznDKXiZMoP7BdxAMz34cBCEKQJZSTsWM62o4vdsVDp_0u0ias5lb1BnTmA4RthdBAHytpLt_ALx0t0gS4T_K70M3U3sE-VUJU0F8kI3qi0Uppl8dRvU/s1600/cakes-cupcakes-001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMeRZ3hDypeyQC2R2RxEq6mDmcDznDKXiZMoP7BdxAMz34cBCEKQJZSTsWM62o4vdsVDp_0u0ias5lb1BnTmA4RthdBAHytpLt_ALx0t0gS4T_K70M3U3sE-VUJU0F8kI3qi0Uppl8dRvU/s320/cakes-cupcakes-001.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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It is so hard to believe but Sign2Music will be 5 years old tomorrow. This time 5 years ago Sign2Music was just a dream. I had completed my interview and test with Sign2Me and was awaiting to hear if I received certification as a presenter. Some of you may not know this but Sign2Music originally started out as Signing Kids. And Signing Sandy has had quite a few image makeovers in the past few years. Not only has he dyed his hair and changed his clothes, he has also had quite a bit of 'work' done and is a lot more handsome than he was in 2007!<br />
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What a whirlwind the past 5 years have been. We have had such fantastic feedback from our service users and colleagues and are always striving to improve the services we provide and reach as many people as possible to spread the joys of signing.<br />
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We have had a lot of ups and downs along the way of course! Reaching the finals in the What's On 4 Little Ones Awards in 2011 and being nominated in 3 categories in 2012 is definitely one of our great achievements.Voting for the 2012 Awards closes TODAY! Your vote would be a fabulous birthday gift for Signing Sandy and Daisy Doggy. It only takes a minute to <a href="http://www.whatson4littleones.co.uk/awards-voting-2012.asp">vote</a> in the following categories:<br />
1. Best local activity for under 5s.<br />
2. Most Outstanding Activity Leader for Under 5s ( N Ireland & Scotland) (Deirdre McLaughlin)<br />
3. Best Children's Party Entertainment<br />
<br /><a href="http://www.linkedtube.com/6NyyUALobVI909662f7009fc33334e919b9ff4">I've even sung again for your vote!</a><br />
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We are very grateful to those of you who helped and supported us over the past 5 years! The wonderful children, parents and carers we work with have been our inspiration! Thank you all so so much.<br />
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Deirdre :)Deirdre McLaughlinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355104111088619155noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1888687969535004709.post-46185840234002077572012-04-13T13:07:00.000-07:002012-04-13T13:07:51.692-07:00Daisy Doggy Supersigner Competition 2012It is hard to believe but Sign2Music will be 5 years old on 7 May 2012!<br />
To celebrate our birthday for the past number of years we have been running an annual competition, the <strong>Daisy Doggy Super Signer Competition!</strong> The winner receives their very own Daisy Doggy. <br />
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To enter share a picture or video of your child signing. The Sign2Music teachers review all the entries and decide the winner!<br />
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This is our reigning champion Shawna: <a href="http://youtu.be/rjscYbS38rc">http://youtu.be/rjscYbS38rc</a><br />
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If you have shared a video or picture recently and would like this to be considered please contact deirdre@sign2music .co.uk <br />
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We would love to use the entries in our promotional videos / website so please indicate if you prefer your entry not to be used for this purpose.<br />
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Good luck!Deirdre McLaughlinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355104111088619155noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1888687969535004709.post-1343814701765751892012-04-01T03:12:00.000-07:002012-04-01T03:12:03.102-07:00Sign2Music is coming to the Carribean!Some very exciting news to report! Back in 2005 my husband and I spent a blissful week in Jamaica on honeymoon. We met some lovely people including a Jamaican girl called Jovi Franklin. Jovi and I had so much in common including a love of sign language (she is a qualified ASL interpreter) and have remained firm friends ever since. I have always wanted to go back to Jamaica, but this time to spend time with the Franklin family and see the 'real Jamaica', not the tourist parts where I spent most of my time during my honeymoon.<br />
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When Jovi had her little boy Clinton in 2009 I supported her in starting to sign with him. Signing with Clinton has been an amazing experience for Jovi and her husband Lenford. Their friends have been so impressed with Clinton's ability to communicate that they have asked Jovi to show them how to sign with their little ones. Jovi follows Sign2Music on Facebook and contacted me after she saw a post about our new teacher in South Belfast. She told me a light went on for her as she is currently looking for a part time job she can work around Clinton when he starts preschool soon. <br />
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Jovi and I are both so excited about Sign2Music coming to the carribean! Jovi is going to be our first international Sign2Music teacher!!! <br />
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I am booking my flights to Montego Bay next week for August 2012 so I can train Jovi. Can't wait! Signing Sandy and Daisy Doggy have their sunglasses at the ready!<br />
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Deirdre :)Deirdre McLaughlinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355104111088619155noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1888687969535004709.post-62571715615073948512012-02-20T08:36:00.000-08:002012-02-20T08:36:45.817-08:00Our new CD Songs for Movers, Coming Soon!Our Sign2Music Vol.1 CD was released a number of years ago after parents asked me for a CD to use at home with songs from our classes. I had written a lot of songs for various topics for Sign2Music classes and was surprised at how everyone loved songs like Daisy Doggy and Little One it's Time for Bed. I was lucky to be friends with an amazing musician who wrote backing tracks for all the songs I needed. She even wrote the backing tracks for 'Little Daisy Doggy' after I sang it into her answering machine!<br />
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I just can't believe how popular the CD has become and the fab reviews I received from <a href="http://viviensabel68.blogspot.com/2011/08/my-latest-independent-parenting-review.html">Vivien Sabel</a> (Baby Communication Expert and Author) and <a href="http://jellybeansmusic.wordpress.com/2011/09/11/sign-2-music-volume-1-a-review/">Elizabeth James</a> (Founder of Jellybeans Music and Music Bags). We have even had agreement to sell it in a NI retail outlet soon! <br />
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It is a great accompaniment to our classes, particularly for those attending wrigglers classes as we sing every single one of the 26 songs during the term. <br />
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I will never forget the day I recorded it....Traipsing up to the recording studio armed with tissues, as I had a stinking cold. Then being escorted to the recording suite, feeling like I was a 'proper musician'. I felt a bit stupid though when I got the big headphones on and stood in front of the mike with the techno guy outside mixing and doing his stuff, particularly when I started belting out 'Twinkle Twinkle Little Star'. I bet I was the talk of that studio for a long time. I will never forget the techno guy's face when I started singing 'Little baby isn't happy, 'cos he has a dirty nappy'!.... He looked like he expected someone to jump out and say 'ha! ha! Gotcha....at any stage!<br />
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We do also have another programme, Movers Classes, for older toddlers. For this programme I wrote many new songs, including themed songs like 'I Like Playing with My Toys', 'What's the Weather Like Today' and a few new parachute songs, because of course Daisy Doggy not only loves to hear the music, she loves to play with the parachute too! <br />
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For a couple of years now I have been promising to produce a second CD and this Thurs I am taking the first step to keeping that promise! I am going to be on a tight schedule with 3 hrs to record 26 tracks, with.....a cold again!!! I have been told that I sounded like one of the Smurfs on the first CD, so I think it is fitting that I have a cold again to keep with the Smurfy theme, lol!<br />
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I am very excited about this CD as I know the content is good, even if I do say so myself! <br />
<ul><li>It will include themed songs from the classes for topics like Animals, Opposites, Transport, Playtime, Manners and Behaviour. </li>
<li>There will also be some well known favourites including Little Peter Rabbit, Head Shoulders Knees and Toes, Row your Boat and 5 Little Ducks. </li>
<li>This CD will include a big favourite from our classes 'My Hands Can Clap Like This', recorded with permission from Dawn Errington (Signing Tots). </li>
<li>A new song will also debut on the CD that even the Sign2Music teachers haven't heard yet - Clap Your Hands, Just Like Signing Sandy. This is an adaptation of one of the songs recorded by Rowena (Rhythm Express) who does our backing tracks!</li>
</ul>Roll on Thursday.........Deirdre McLaughlinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355104111088619155noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1888687969535004709.post-26641420816700053442012-02-19T04:34:00.000-08:002012-02-19T04:41:48.585-08:00Nominated for Top 25 Moms with Inspiring Families - 2012 list on Circle of Moms!I am quite new to the world of blogging and have been a bit naughty recently, not posting as often as I should! <br />
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Therefore I was surprised but delighted to receive an e-mail today saying: <br />
"<em>Hi Deirdre, </em><em>Your blog Baby Signing with Sign2Music has been nominated to the Top 25 Moms with Inspiring Families - 2012 list on Circle of Moms!"</em><br />
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Time to up my game, blogwise, I think! Time to start updating this blog and newsletter more regulalry! <br />
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In the meantime I you want to give the Sign2Music blog your vote do so by clicking this link.<br />
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<a href="http://www.circleofmoms.com/blogger/baby-signing-sign2music?blogroll_id=49">Vote for this Blog in Top25 Moms with Inspiring Families</a>. <br />
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<div id="yui_3_2_0_1_1329653366832245" style="line-height: 20px;">You can vote for this blog once a day until March 7, 2012. </div><div style="line-height: 20px;"><br />
</div><div style="line-height: 20px;">Thanks all. See you again soon!</div><div style="line-height: 20px;"><br />
</div><div style="line-height: 20px;">Deirdre :)</div>Deirdre McLaughlinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355104111088619155noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1888687969535004709.post-2628626203925826122012-02-05T04:40:00.000-08:002012-02-05T04:40:41.841-08:00Do you have what it takes to join the Sign2Music crew?<div class="mbl notesBlogText clearfix"><div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; line-height: 150%;"><div style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 150%;">Interest in baby signing is steadily increasing throughout </span><country-region><place><country-region><place><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 150%;">Northern Ireland</span></place></country-region></place></country-region><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 150%;">. As </span><country-region><place><country-region><place><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 150%;">Northern Ireland</span></place></country-region></place></country-region><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 150%;">'s own baby signing company,<strong><span style="font-family: Verdana;"> Sign2Music </span></strong>is at the forefront of this interest! </span></div><div style="line-height: 150%;"><br />
</div><div style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 150%;">The word is spreading too about the quality of our classes, parties, workshops and sessions in nurseries, schools and preschools. We have had a lot of press coverage (local Newspapers as well as the Irish News and Sunday Life) recently and featured on the <strong><span style="font-family: Verdana;">SevenThirty Show</span></strong> in 2011. We also got through to the FINAL in a the National <strong><span style="font-family: Verdana;">What's On 4 Little Ones Junior Awards 2011</span></strong>, making us one of the top 4 local activities for under 5s in the UK, a fanatastic achievement for a small NI company! </span></div><div style="line-height: 150%;"><br />
</div><div align="center" class="separator" style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7Ky_DFqL-WXWkT516TqUlJuUBNdweFedV6n6fy3zgvBjWc0bbItsUBoIwH0SE7PdShVhPHyaHPymc3_3g0HiHLZo1S2vMZelknEHa5SxQylCy9pmRcZxYk5qqPSiiPk6iLjP_QKR8gcAP/s1600/254255_10150289144596111_10849566110_9651279_650034_n.jpg" imageanchor="1"></a></div><shapetype coordsize="21600,21600" filled="f" id="_x0000_t75" o:preferrelative="t" o:spt="75" path="m@4@5l@4@11@9@11@9@5xe" stroked="f"><stroke joinstyle="miter"></stroke><formulas><f eqn="if lineDrawn pixelLineWidth 0"></f><f eqn="sum @0 1 0"></f><f eqn="sum 0 0 @1"></f><f eqn="prod @2 1 2"></f><f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelWidth"></f><f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelHeight"></f><f eqn="sum @0 0 1"></f><f eqn="prod @6 1 2"></f><f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelWidth"></f><f eqn="sum @8 21600 0"></f><f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelHeight"></f><f eqn="sum @10 21600 0"></f></formulas><path gradientshapeok="t" o:connecttype="rect" o:extrusionok="f"></path><lock aspectratio="t" v:ext="edit"></lock></shapetype><div align="center" class="separator" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7Ky_DFqL-WXWkT516TqUlJuUBNdweFedV6n6fy3zgvBjWc0bbItsUBoIwH0SE7PdShVhPHyaHPymc3_3g0HiHLZo1S2vMZelknEHa5SxQylCy9pmRcZxYk5qqPSiiPk6iLjP_QKR8gcAP/s1600/254255_10150289144596111_10849566110_9651279_650034_n.jpg" imageanchor="1"><span style="text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;"><shapetype coordsize="21600,21600" filled="f" id="_x0000_t75" o:preferrelative="t" o:spt="75" path="m@4@5l@4@11@9@11@9@5xe" stroked="f"><stroke joinstyle="miter"></stroke><formulas><f eqn="if lineDrawn pixelLineWidth 0"></f><f eqn="sum @0 1 0"></f><f eqn="sum 0 0 @1"></f><f eqn="prod @2 1 2"></f><f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelWidth"></f><f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelHeight"></f><f eqn="sum @0 0 1"></f><f eqn="prod @6 1 2"></f><f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelWidth"></f><f eqn="sum @8 21600 0"></f><f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelHeight"></f><f eqn="sum @10 21600 0"></f></formulas><path gradientshapeok="t" o:connecttype="rect" o:extrusionok="f"></path><lock aspectratio="t" v:ext="edit"></lock></shapetype></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKCQortqQ2BdFICXgf5BVPMBbGTdzjMLBSLg8BY4Grj4-u3LIWVsHRmeSvXfNElK4hIdSC5Sx642DoULC57ZXMN5eTVyDR-LOuETj6Rw4FG39jtSplolp9ooz2RHzaCWRme4v60Ks9jN1D/s1600/254255_10150289144596111_10849566110_9651279_650034_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="146" sda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKCQortqQ2BdFICXgf5BVPMBbGTdzjMLBSLg8BY4Grj4-u3LIWVsHRmeSvXfNElK4hIdSC5Sx642DoULC57ZXMN5eTVyDR-LOuETj6Rw4FG39jtSplolp9ooz2RHzaCWRme4v60Ks9jN1D/s200/254255_10150289144596111_10849566110_9651279_650034_n.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div style="line-height: 150%;"><br />
</div><div style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 150%;">As you can see it is very exciting times for Sign2Music and a good time to consider joining us!</span></div><div style="line-height: 150%;"><br />
</div><div style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 150%;">I would love to work alongside enthusiastic and committed people to ensure Sign2Music is available in as many areas as possible. I can confidently say that our existing teachers are second to none. Here we are at our 2011 conference:</span></div><div style="line-height: 150%;"><br />
</div><div align="center" class="separator" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3vPE04yW464ywhrQ034_L5pBfU1JJSSi2pmXWFJgNZRahP_moQZY_O9K_qxCkdOAz0250IP_RRMH0i-PsbIdI6bzO0_qGkld1DvQ7MVjViHD5q9vH32CUQTJMrIJhNgwlzyIH1u7aNtJ_/s1600/Sign2Music+teachers+2011.jpg" imageanchor="1"><span style="text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;"></span></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_BPM9k57QZPjgF9r9yaosQO8rtpX4QbcoKWQHTJ8wRT7QwYGDbxNm0Iok_rC_4Zo8ND02appNgTZDUiHQga4w6VVMW06a_LLoZB2t2kGcqcFVHhuK6ZiAAXxxDyLc5C-SYl99qWrQtB5l/s1600/Sign2Music+teachers+2011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="184" sda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_BPM9k57QZPjgF9r9yaosQO8rtpX4QbcoKWQHTJ8wRT7QwYGDbxNm0Iok_rC_4Zo8ND02appNgTZDUiHQga4w6VVMW06a_LLoZB2t2kGcqcFVHhuK6ZiAAXxxDyLc5C-SYl99qWrQtB5l/s200/Sign2Music+teachers+2011.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div align="center" class="separator" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 150%;">I would love to increase the number of teachers so we can reach more people, but strongly believe in quality above quantity. This is why we have a selection process to become a Sign2Music teacher to ensure not only that you are right for Sign2 Music, but that Sign2Music is right for you!</span></div><div style="line-height: 150%;"><br />
</div><div style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 150%;">Ask yourself these questions:</span></div><div style="line-height: 150%; mso-layout-grid-align: none; tab-stops: list 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·</span><span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 150%; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"> </span><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: ComicSansMS;">Do you want to make a difference in the lives of children and have lots of fun doing so?</span></div><div style="line-height: 150%; mso-layout-grid-align: none; tab-stops: list 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·</span><span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 150%; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"> </span><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: ComicSansMS;">Do you want to earn an income while working around your family?</span></div><div style="line-height: 150%; mso-layout-grid-align: none; tab-stops: list 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·</span><span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 150%; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"> </span><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: ComicSansMS;">Do you enjoy spending time with children?</span></div><div style="line-height: 150%; mso-layout-grid-align: none; tab-stops: list 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·</span><span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 150%; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"> </span><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: ComicSansMS;">Have you seen our classes and thought you would really enjoy being that teacher? </span></div><div style="line-height: 150%; mso-layout-grid-align: none; tab-stops: list 0cm;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;">·</span><span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 150%; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"> </span><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: ComicSansMS;">Do you want to start your own business but would like to be handed the ideas, customer base and know how, so you can get started right away?</span></div><div style="line-height: 150%; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><br />
</div><div style="line-height: 150%; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: ComicSansMS;">If you answered YES then Sign2Music is the business for you. You CAN have it all! </span></div><div style="line-height: 150%; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><br />
</div><div style="line-height: 150%; mso-layout-grid-align: none;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 150%;">Registering your interest in becoming a Sign 2 Music teacher is the first step to the best and most fun job in the entire world! Our licensed teacher programme requires a relatively low investment, much lower than most similar opportunities. You receive all the materials and resources needed to start immediately and the</span> <span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 150%;">flexibility to add your own personal touch, by adjusting the content to suit your personality and skills. Training is tailored to your individual requirements. You also receive mentoring and support once training is completed. As an evolving business we are constantly adding to the services we offer. What we do is underpinned by strong values and a desire to bring this wonderful communication, bonding and development tool to as many people as possible!</span></div><div style="line-height: 150%;"><br />
</div><div style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 150%;">If you feel you have what it takes please contact me via email (deirdre@sign2music.co.uk) or phone 07874742704 for your free information pack.</span></div><div style="line-height: 150%;"><br />
</div><div style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 150%;">Look forward to meeting you soon.</span></div><div style="line-height: 150%;"><br />
</div><div style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 150%;">Deirdre McLaughlin</span></div><div style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 150%;">Owner</span></div><div style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 150%;">Sign2Music</span></div><div style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 150%;">deirdre@sign2music.co.uk</span></div><div style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 150%;">07874742704</span></div></div></div>Deirdre McLaughlinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355104111088619155noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1888687969535004709.post-51919479842581775772012-01-26T09:18:00.000-08:002012-01-26T09:21:16.213-08:00Confessions of a Procrastinator<span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I'm nearly afraid to say it out loud but the tax return is done AT LAST!! It only took me several weeks of searching handbags for scraps of paper, hunting through bank accounts, bank statements, invoices and finding envelopes of receipts in different places. Any accountant reading this will be disgusted at my lack of organisational skills, financial know how and lack of planning! </span><br />
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<span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This is typical behaviour for 'Deirdre Procrastinator Extraordinaire'! I was always the one sitting up to 2 and 3am the night before exams cramming or writing the assignment the night before it was due at school and university. </span><br />
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<span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">People often do not realise the amount of preparation and planning that goes into every Sign2Music class, especially in the first term. Knowing this never encouraged me to have the bag packed a week before like other sensible people would do! No no, I always 'faff about' and leave most things to do the night before once the children are in bed, often staying up 'til 2am or later!</span><br />
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<span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The tax return has been hanging over my head for months. I knew how much preparation was going to be involved in getting everything ready to submit it. It is such a small thing in my busy life, not something I want to prioritise or focus too much attention on. However, it really has become a huge mountain that I have had to climb to allow me to focus on the 'big things' I have planned for Sign2Music.</span><br />
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<span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Running a small business is a very fulfilling role and has been one of the most amazing learning experiences for me. It is also a time and life consuming role, especially, like me if you have a job and a family too! A small business owner has to be an expert on so many things, not only the field in which they are operating: computer skills, social media, book keeping, PR, marketing, organising, planning, networking, communicating, to name only a few! We do not have a personnel department, communications department, finance department and a collection of policies and procedures to refer to!</span><br />
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<span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I have never employed an accountant or any other business or personal support services as I always say I can't afford to and can easily do everything myself. I have now realised I can't afford not to! The amount of time, effort and stress preparing for today would not have been necessary had I approached it like an organised business woman would! Had I completed this months ago there are so many things I could have been doing instead!</span><br />
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<span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Promise to myself! This year...new me! I have already started recording as I go along, clearing out my purse and filing and recording receipts regularly. I have accepted the support offered by my husband and 15 year old IT whizz son! My books will be sent to my accountant in April /May and I can say goodbye to another small thing and put it into the hands of an expert!</span><br />
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<span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I would say I am now going to sit back and relax, but there is the small matter of my house! Anyone fancy cleaning it for me!? ;-)</span><br />
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<span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Deirdre :)</span>Deirdre McLaughlinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355104111088619155noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1888687969535004709.post-78760522688895538212012-01-17T17:59:00.000-08:002012-01-17T17:59:26.582-08:00One for the Dads<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">We are very lucky to have lots of dads attend our Sign2Music classes. Too often preschool classes are predominated by mums. Not ours! It helps that many of our classes are at weekends so are accessible to more family members - mums, dads, grandparents, brothers, sisters, aunts, uncles and siblings!</div><br />
Modern research emphasises the importance of the mother - child bond in building the foundations for sound relationships in adult life. However, this does not take away from the important roles fathers can play in the lives of their children.<br />
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<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">Unfortunately dads are often overlooked in parenting discussions. One of my colleagues told me that when his son was a baby a health professional visited the house on a regular basis in the early days. While he was present every time, all the discussion and advice was addressed to his partner. He described how disempowering this felt. </div><br />
With this in mind I was delighted when I came across this wonderful video by the American Actor and rapper Tray Chaney, focusing on fatherhood: <br />
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<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/EJfaDhrM4k4?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">I am not a rap fan but this is a beautiful song with meaningful lyrics and a great video.</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;">I heard about Tray from my friend and author of ' the Blossom Method', Vivien Sabel. I was very touched and moved to receive a tweet on Twitter from 'the man' himself!</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqWQFjrCXzl8owSL86iYc6lI4ETNpHWQFS2V1QG5znqfNq6yg7InT3K4gEwkGEuGSQMf2P1I-BMTjuy66Fb9N-fVSTcZg_pX4JWPV7883WTd5yGr7Uwfn6dcIL3AAl0RjOpe_t3Eo-GBTE/s1600/IMG_3274.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" kba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqWQFjrCXzl8owSL86iYc6lI4ETNpHWQFS2V1QG5znqfNq6yg7InT3K4gEwkGEuGSQMf2P1I-BMTjuy66Fb9N-fVSTcZg_pX4JWPV7883WTd5yGr7Uwfn6dcIL3AAl0RjOpe_t3Eo-GBTE/s320/IMG_3274.PNG" width="213" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I wish Tray every success with this song. I really hope the popularity of this song increases even further and continues to promote the roles of fathers everywhere! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Deirdre :)</div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div>Deirdre McLaughlinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355104111088619155noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1888687969535004709.post-50989016519681297232012-01-16T02:57:00.000-08:002012-01-16T02:57:57.605-08:00My Promise to YouAs you all know Sign2Music is not a job to me, it is my passion, my chance to live my dream by helping everyone share the huge benefits and massive joy that can be gained by the use of signing. <br />
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As a business Sign2Music has a <strong>Vision Statement</strong>. My vision for the future is this:<br />
1. For signing with babies and children to be mainstream in families, nurseries and school and to be accessible to <strong>everyone.</strong><br />
2. For Sign2Music to be a popular and respected name, providing high quality programmes and products throughout Northern Ireland and beyond.<br />
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Our <strong>Mission Statement</strong>, ie, how we achieve these aims is:<br />
1. We provide high quality programmes throughout Northern Ireland.<br />
2. We work to raise awareness of the benefits of signing with all babies and children and to produce useful, affordable and accessible products.<br />
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Sounds a bit lovely dovey, but that's me, heart rules my head! I have been on a 3 day training event recently which has made me realise a lot of things about how I run Sign2Music. Because it is my passion, I have not treated it enough as a business and sometimes find the 'money part' uncomfortable, which I realise is a disservice to Sign2Music and to you! I have often felt like using the word business somehow diminishes the values and beliefs that drive what I do. I have put my everything into trying to reach as many people as possible, spreading myself too thinly. As a result I have not done everything I should have.<br />
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Well, here and now I am going to commit to actions in 2012! Here goes....gulp!<br />
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1. I will produce the long awaited Sign2Music Vol. 2 CD.<br />
2. I will produce record a Sign2Music DVD<br />
3. I will facilitate an open training event for nursery / childcare professionals<br />
4. I will ensure Sign2Music covers as large an area as possible by recruiting more Sign2Music Licensed Teachers.<br />
5. I will produce materials so that those unable to attend Sign2Music classes can still access our services.<br />
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There I've written it down, not just on my computer but for you all to keep as evidence to hold me to account! Hope I don't live to regret this, lol!<br />
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I am really really excited about what lies ahead for Sign2Music for 2012. I promise to work hard to for you all and hope that the amazing support for Sign2Music from you all that drives me onwards continues this year. Thank you all!<br />
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Deirdre xDeirdre McLaughlinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355104111088619155noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1888687969535004709.post-62261127082190519012011-12-30T13:35:00.000-08:002011-12-30T13:38:20.900-08:00My very own 'Twin Study'As a result of some discussions recently on Twitter I decided to use my last blog of 2011 to talk about some of my experiences of being a twin mummy. Most of you are aware I am the proud mummy of twins, my son Eoghan and my daughter Aine, now aged 15 (16 in April 2012, eek!)<br />
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They were born in 1996 when I was in the middle of my postgraduate Social Work training. I had already completed a degree and masters in Psychology so it's fair to say I was interested in how being different sex twins would affect their socialisation and development. The little babies had no idea they were going to be subjects of their mum's experiments even before they were born!<br />
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When I was at <place>Queens</place> there was research being undertaken in the Psychology Dept on prenatal responsiveness by Peter Hepper **. I remember being fascinated with the discovery that newborn babies who had been exposed to a specific TV theme tune as foetuses (Neighbours!) responded to this hearing this tune by exhibiting changes in heart rate, number of movements, and behavioural state! During my pregnancy the 'Mozart Effect' was widely debated, i.e., the idea that hearing classical music while in the womb affects developing babies cognitive development. Wanting to give the twins the best start I could I made a tape of classical music and played in on my stereo every night, holding the speakers to my belly to be sure the babies could hear it! It was obvious they did as there was a flurry of activity when the music started!<br />
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I have absolutely no idea if the music affected their cognitive development (although they <em>are </em>both very academically capable) but it definitely was remembered by them after they were born. We were in hospital for a week after their birth (that wouldn't happen now!). The first night I got home I put my classical music tape on when they were becoming unsettled. The results truly shocked me! As soon as the music started, both babies stopped crying immediately. It was very clear by their reactions that they recognised the sound. For the next few days I played the music every time they were upset and it comforted them. It only lasted for a short time but it was still fascinating to see that not only can babies hear in the womb but they find those familiar sounds comforting!<br />
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I had always been interested in the nature vs nurture debate and the impact of socialisation on children. I believed that nurture had the greatest impact on children's sense of identity. I saw the range of toys available for children and how they were categorised as male or female and was determined not to differentiate. My very traditional father was appalled when Eoghan got dolls to play with as a toddler and Aine got Lego and train set. I expected that how I 'nurtured' the twins, bringing them up in exactly the same environment, giving them the same toys to play with, treating them the same would result in their not adhering to traditional gender roles. How wrong was I? <br />
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I was soon very clear that, despite both children having access to all toys, Eoghan favoured the toys that would be seen as 'male' and Aine those seen as 'female'. Not only that, everyone commented on how Eoghan was a 'typical wee boy' and Aine a 'typical wee girl'. Eoghan loved climbing, rough and tumble play, building and making things. Aine on the other hand hated climbing and rough and tumble play and loved playing with dolls, role play and dressing up! My theory of socialisation and nurture having more impact than nature was turned on its head! I have no idea if this is because the children were born with a predisposition to certain characteristics and behaviours or due to other influences I had no control of, such as how they were treated by others, advertising, etc.<br />
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Eoghan and Aine continued to grow up as individuals who are as 'different as chalk and cheese' still displaying stereotypical 'male' and 'female' behaviours. As teenagers, Eoghan does not discuss his feelings (or much else for that matter!) and Aine discusses little else! However, they are both gentle, caring, well mannered and beautiful children. Aine will hug me for saying that and Eoghan will grunt!<br />
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Being the mother of twins is such a precious gift. The experience of their early years was so different than my subsequent experience of having a single child. They were a comfort blanket for each other on occasions like the first day of school (there were no tears or tantrums). The fact that they are different sexes meant that they were never really labelled as 'the twins' but had their own identities. They looked out for each other (and still do!), played together and fought with each other. They are now very close and I hope they will remain that way forever. <br />
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I can't believe my 'babies' are going to be 16 in 2012. My do I feel old! <br />
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Happy New Year everyone!<br />
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Deirdre xx<br />
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**(Hepper, P, G. An examination of foetal learning before and after birth. The Irish Journal of Psychology, Vol 12(2), 1991, 95-107)Deirdre McLaughlinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355104111088619155noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1888687969535004709.post-35929058821669496302011-12-18T07:21:00.000-08:002011-12-18T07:21:46.064-08:00The Importance of Being Accurate!This <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-york-north-yorkshire-16223109">article</a> describes how a toddler group in York has decided to stop using the commonly used symbol for diamond as it is similar to the sign for female genitalia and could potenitally be offensive to deaf children or parents. This has caused a controversy similar to that caused when Justin Fletcher was accused of using a rude sign (the sign for happy in makaton is similar to the sign for f***ing in BSL).<br />
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Some people think this political correctness gone mad while others understand and support the decision of the toddler group. From experience I know how easy it is to change the meaning of a sign by altering the handshape, movement or orientation of the sign. Most people who have studied sign language will tell you a funny or embarrassing story about making a slight error that completely changed the meaning they were trying to convey.<br />
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People often find it hard to understand why I insist that our teachers have a qualification in sign language. The accuracy of the signs we use is very important to me and while we all make mistakes I want to do what I can to ensure signs are shown accurately in all our classes. Knowing our teachers are all trained in sign language not only helps our service users have confidence in the accuracy of the signs they are learning but gives them the flexibility to ask for additional signs. <br />
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Anyone who has been coming to Sign2Music classes for a number of years will tell you how many signs I have substituted since I first started to ensure accuracy and that I am using the most commonly used <a href="http://sign2music.blogspot.com/2011/07/what-signs-do-we-use-and-does-it-matter.html">N Ireland regional versions</a> of signs! No doubt we will continue to make mistakes and correct them, but we are trying our very best!<br />
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I would love to know your thoughts on the subject so feel free to share your comments.Deirdre McLaughlinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355104111088619155noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1888687969535004709.post-80898393106768842932011-12-13T02:56:00.000-08:002011-12-13T02:56:16.584-08:00Christmas is Comiing!Christmas really is on it's way! Where did 2011 go to? It must have been the fastest year on record or I am simply getting old!<br />
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I had 2 wonderful Christmas parties this week in Ballynahinch and am in the middle of Christmas sessions galore! Our parties are so much fun. Some of the children really get into the swing of things by dressing up...and so do the teachers! We sing Christmas songs, read a Christmas story and of course have a visit by Signing Santa!<br />
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I love this time of year as it gives me the chance to dig out the multiple Christmas trees and boxes of decorations that I love to decorate my house with. And of course I get to sing Christmas songs once again! I LOVE them!!!<br />
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I made a couple of videos of Christmas songs last year and have added Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer to the collection this year. <br />
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</div>I will be adding more over the coming weeks so keep an eye on our You Tube page. Why not subscribe and you will be e-mailed when I add a new video?<br />
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Have a very Happy Christmas everyone!Deirdre McLaughlinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355104111088619155noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1888687969535004709.post-62814020453336735522011-11-23T03:20:00.000-08:002011-11-23T14:57:58.812-08:00Love is the Answer!<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Being a mummy is, and always will be, the most important job I have ever had! I love my children more than life itself. I know how tough life can be and feel so responsible for giving them the best start I can in life. And what a rollercoaster ride it has been so far! Like all parents I have had many proud moments when I have given myself a pat on the back and felt proud that my efforts have paid off. I have also had many guilt-ridden moments where I beat myself up for not being a good enough parent!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I am not sure if my academic background and work experience have helped me as a parent or have got in the way. I have studied psychology and social work and spent the past 15 years working with young people who become involved in offending behaviour and their families. This is why I had a tape (oh yes, not a CD!) of classical music and played it to my tummy every night during my first pregnancy in the belief it would boost my children's cognitive development! It is also why Eoghan and Aine, as male and female twins were both given toys that would have been perceived as more appropriate for one sex (despite my father's serious disapproval!). And it is why my teenagers moan all the time about not being able to do things their friends are allowed to do!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">When I started working with young people involved in offending and their families I began to really question the role the early years has on adult behaviour and family dynamics. Family therapy training made me explore my own family history and the how my parenting has impacted on my children. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">I love watching how the babies we see in Sign2Music classes grow and develop into confident, loving and bright children. I love the amazing stories I hear about how signing has helped communication, bonding and development. I spend a lot of time discussing the benefits of signing for supporting communication and development. There is also a lot of information on the internet about these benefits.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">The benefits of signing in supporting bonding has not been featured and researched to the same extent. I have a video on our You Tube channel showing how signing supports bonding with siblings </span><a href="http://youtu.be/7_gHGTIpbKU">Signing Supports Sibling Bonding</a><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">However, I cannot emphasise enough how important it is to nurture the bond between children and their caregivers!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">A child's first relationship will have a significant impact on subsequent relationships throughout their lives. Current early years research reinforces this, even indicating that the first 18 months of life are the most critical in developing or preventing the propensity to violent /criminal behaviour in later life.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: georgia, serif;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Much of a humans brain development takes place in the first 3 years of life. During this period of accelerated learning the number of synapses (brain connections) multiply 20 fold. M</span></span></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: georgia, serif;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">odern research indicates that early experiences can override genetics. A baby's potential is therefore based on the experiences in their early years. Early learned behaviour can be resistant to change and can be the foundation to adult behaviour. Stressful experiences wire a child's brain for stress and trauma. Loving experiences can wire their brain for loving relationships and experiences.</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: georgia, serif;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><span style="font-family: georgia, serif;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Connectness between a child and caregiver is the basis for the development of empathy. </span></span>This means the nature of the child's first relationship, most often with the mother impacts on later emotional relationships:</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: georgia, serif;"></span></span><br />
<div style="margin-left: 36pt;"><span style="font-family: georgia, serif;"><em><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">‘The child’s first relationship, the one with the mother, acts as a template…[that] permanently moulds the individual’s capacity to enter into all later emotional relationships’ (Schore, 2000, via <a href="http://www.wavetrust.org/">Wave Trust</a>)</span></em></span></div><div style="margin-left: 36pt;"><br />
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</div><span style="font-family: georgia, serif;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: georgia, serif;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">This is a beautiful video featuring the <a href="http://youtu.be/apzXGEbZht0">The Still Face Experiment</a> which demonstrates how important our interactions with our little ones are. Can you imagine the impact on a child if they experience the 'still face' during most of their interactions?</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: georgia, serif;"><span style="font-family: Verdana;">Reading all the research available to us in relation to child development can be mind blowing. Being a parent is hard enough without trying to ensure you are doing everything right. I have no doubt that signing with babies and children, music and other activities can help support your connection with your child. However, it is clear from all the research that the secret to well adjusted children is actually quite simple - LOVE them! Everything else is a bonus. Wow, I don't feel guilty any more!</span> </span></span></span> <br />
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</div>Deirdre McLaughlinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08355104111088619155noreply@blogger.com4