A former teacher is bringing stories to life and embedding a love of reading across Cheshire and Staffordshire. 

Alsager-based Hayley Cheetham has always loved books and she's hoping her business will help children turn over a new chapter in their lives.

Hayley, who grew up in Rode Heath and went to Alsager School, qualified as a primary teacher, working in mainstream and special schools across Stoke and Staffordshire. 

(Photo: Hayley Cheetham)

Now the mother-of-one has turned her passion for words and authors into a business as 'The Sensory Storyteller'.

The enterprising mum, who only launched her business in January last year, has already taken on another member of staff, Lisa, to cope with demand.

And she is also now a licensed Makaton signing teacher, joining forces with fellow Makaton tutor and Baby Club Cheshire leader, Steph Tully, for a free Baby Makaton Summer Special Storytime at Nantwich Bookshop, before delivering further six-week Makaton 'Signing for Babies and Families' courses.  

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"I've always had a love of reading and wanted to bring children's books to life, instilling some magic," said Hayley.

"It's wonderful to see children's face light up and really get engaged in what I'm reading to them."

Hayley uses her finely honed teaching skills and props to bring books to life across a wide range of ages – from nursery to primary school.

"It's not about the words on the page. It's about bringing the story to life and getting babies and children (and parents) involved.

"As a teacher, I was responsible for all of the children in my class and every aspect of their learning. 

(Photo: Hayley Cheetham)

"It's about using different techniques to get children, regardless of age or ability, to engage. "

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Sessions for babies take place across a variety of venues from Alsager United Reformed Church to Maryhill Children's Centre in Kidsgrove, Biddulph town Hall, Astbury Mere in Congleton and Tesco in Hanley. 

The Sensory Storyteller supports local charities, as well as provides services in nurseries, primary schools and SEN settings.

Next month, The Sensory Storyteller will be supporting Stoke Reads at 'Tales in the Park' at Burslem Park on August 10th, as well as delivering sessions at the Just So Festival at Rode Hall Estate. 

"Our aim is to provide relaxed and welcoming, small classes is to support new parents as much as their little one's development," said Haley.

(Photo: Deborah Bowyer/Alsager Nub News)

"For the little ones, the sessions are planned with Early Learning Goals and Early communication skills in mind, as each week we explore a new story from our themed term, through the use of sensory play and exploration, bubbles, music, puppets and Makaton Signing."

More information about The Sensory Storyteller is available from the website here  or the Facebook page here 

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