Rhyme Time leader, Age Exchange, Blackheath
Abby Beverly runs a weekly Rhyme Time session at the Age Exchange in Blackheath, south east London. She's been at it for two years, and every week, someone new walks through the door.
When Abby's daughter was born, she was given the BookTrust Baby pack and threw herself into sharing stories with her. She noticed the difference -- not just in her daughter, but in herself, and in the bond between them.
"I've seen a difference in not only her, but in myself, and my connection with her. And I think nursery rhymes are just as important as stories, in terms of being a tool for children."
Attending those first sessions wasn't easy. Abby is partially sighted, and when she first came to Rhyme Time at the Age Exchange, she was in the middle of eye surgery, relying heavily on her other senses. Her confidence was low. It took her eight months before she felt ready to go.
When she finally did, she loved it.
Abby's sessions are shaped by her own story. Before the age of five, she had no language -- and it was Makaton and Baby Sign that helped her find it. Those tools became a foundation she's carried forward into her work.
She's made the sessions her own: more stories, more books, and Baby Sign woven throughout. Parents learn to sign alongside their children, taking the skills home with them.
"Parents that come along are learning to sign from me. It's lovely to see them copy me. I'm very proud of how I've set up my rhyme time group."
"Coming to Rhyme Time is a really nice part of the week. Abby is really welcoming, and she makes everyone feel included. It's a space for the children to play together, to connect -- and for parents to connect with each other as well."
Come and see what all the singing is about. We'd love to see you and your little one soon.
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