Chelltune.co.uk, a website specialising in Sign Language for Babies and Children was launched In September 2006. We asked Michelle, ‘Why is baby sign language so important?’

"Sign language is an important part of society, Over 70,000 profoundly Deaf people in the UK as their first language or preferred language use British Sign Language. A further 150,000 use Sign Language to communicate alongside English or another language. Since 2003 BSL has been recognised as a language in the UK.

Baby sign language can be introduced from birth onwards as a means of communication before your baby is physically able to speak. A baby can communicate his/her needs through simple signs rather than crying. This takes the guesswork out of parenting and helps parents to understand their child much better, hopefully resulting in a happier and less frustrated child.

Learning to sign with your baby is something that no mum wants to miss out on. If you can’t get to a class, or want materials to help you practise at home then our store has all you need. We supply a wide range of children's books with visual aids such as puppets to support the learning, making it and educational but more importantly a fun part of your baby's routine".

Founder of Chelltune, Michelle Lawrie who is a communicator for deaf students at a college of further education, completed her level three British Sign Language Course in June 2003. She signed with her children when they were babies. Now aged two and four they are confidant speakers, however they enjoy signing for fun.