Sign Of The Times
As a new mother, I was one of those abominable women who signs their child up to all and sundry to ensure their rounded development. Simply to assauage the guilt I felt of having a practically no maternity leave and returning to my previous career based life far too quickly, this little lady was sent to laugh and clap at many a music group. It’ll come as no surprise to those with children that my house of cards soon came tumbling down, as I careered (pun very much intended) into a small life crisis.
One of the classes the Munchkin attended was Sing and Sign, and one for which I’ll be eternally grateful. Also to her chaperone, the darling Husband who would spend an hour every Tuesday locked away in a windowless room “sweating like a rapist” with a bevy of yummy mummies, all of whom refused to speak to him.
Perhaps four months is a little young to start, but this undoubtedly has been one of our better parenting decisions. Particularly true to our consumeristic style we of course purchased the DVD. When, after the first batch of classes the Husband felt he could cope no longer with the frostiness, the Munchkin and I would enjoy the DVD in our own time, in the comfort of our own home (the cushions were far nicer I can tell you), and I finally got to learn the songs.
It wasn’t until Madam reached seven months that the fruits of our labour paid off. Demanding to watch some more Bob the Builder, the Munchkin emphatically signed ‘More’, much to great hilarity. From that day on they came thick and fast, our communicating baby our new found party piece. On our results alone I swear they’ve sold hundred of DVDs. The Munchkin of course loved it, she could have us running around after us at the mere click of her fingers.
The one thing we worried about was whether it would impede her the development of her vocal communication. The answer to that is a resounding no. Having quickly found her voice there’s been no stopping her. She’s as louqucious as any other 2 year old.
Now all I need is something to shut her up …
