A LONG-STANDING baby sign language teacher in Northfield is celebrating after receiving a Lifetime Achievement award for her work.
Julie Hetherington, who runs TinyTalk South West Birmingham and North Worcestershire was honoured with the accolade from The Club Hub Awards which recognise children’s activity providers.
An independent panel of expert judges deemed Julie worthy of the award after her dedicating the last 14 years to teaching children and parents the skills of sign language.
TinyTalk provides classes to babies and families in Northfield, Stirchley, Bromsgrove, Worcester, Redditch, Droitwich, Evesham and more.
Julie’s journey to teaching baby sign language came after wanting to alleviate her little ones frustrations around communication at a young age.
After attending a TinyTalk class she was inspired to purchase her own franchise of the business and begin helping other families with similar difficulties.
Julie said: “I am so honoured to receive the award for working in my local area delivering my TinyTalk Baby Signing classes.
“Having felt alone and scared myself with a little one, I didn’t want anyone else to feel like that.
“I truly believe that the social aspect of the TinyTalk classes I attended was a lifeline. and learning signing with my little one actually helped reduce her frustration as she could communicate with us from a young age.
“So inspired was I that I bought my franchise and here I am today. I can’t tell you the joy on a little one’s face when they make themselves understood – and on the adults too.”
The winners of The Club Hub Awards were announced on Saturday, May 11 at the Macdonald Burlington Hotel, Birmingham and on Grow Radio.
Tessa Robinson, founder and director of Club Hub UK said: “Huge Congratulations to all our Club Hub Award Winners this year.
“It was amazing to present your award on Saturday and celebrate all your achievements. I very much look forward to following your business journeys for years to come.”
