Dinky Sign – a combination of singing, stories, games, music making, dancing and baby sign language – will start in the Flash Leisure Centre on Monday, January 14.

The classes are being led by Anna Lingard, and they will incorporate baby signing which is derived from makaton – a form of signing developed for children with special needs to aid communication – to help all the babies who go communicate with their parents from a far younger age than would normally be expected.

Anna told the County Times: "Signing with your baby is a wonderful way to communicate before speech and it is believed it can aid language development.

"It does not replace words, the signs are used alongside words by the parent.

"From about eight months babies start to wave which is an instinctive sign which we all use, so when you're using signs with other words regularly it is amazing to watch your baby develop communication so early!

"Anyone who has had a young baby will understand how invaluable it can be for them to be able to tell you at such a young age that they are hungry, thirsty, tired, cold, hot, or even that they need their nappy changing.

"But the most important thing that Dinky Sign is about is a fun relaxed environment for babies to develop confidence and to socialise."

Dinky Sign is an offshoot of the already successful Dinky Drama, which has been running in both Welshpool and Newtown for many years for older children.

The classes have been designed to dovetail into the drama classes for anyone who wants to continue.

Sarah Owen, who runs Dinky Drama, said: "This is the ideal class for anyone who wants to enjoy spending fun, quality time with their baby, while developing their communication skills. The babies and toddlers love the songs and games and Anna manages to get the best out of every child – watching them begin to use simple signs is quite remarkable!"

Classes are 40 minutes long, and are planned from 10am on Monday mornings. The first term is nine weeks, with the classes costing £4 per week (the first taster session is free).

For more information on Dinky Sign or to book a place, contact Anna Lingard on 01691 831630.

For more information on Dinky Drama contact Sarah Owen on 01938 555775 or visit www.dinkydrama.co.uk