The Hidden Gem Developmental Center

proudly presents

HAPPY TALK SONG & SIGN™ CLASSES!

Come Sing, Sign, and Play with Your Little One!

Join families throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth area for joyful, in-person Happy Talk Song & Sign™ classes!

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Curious what a Happy Talk class is like? This video offers a glimpse into the joyful, play-based Happy Talk Song & Sign™ experience that inspires every class I teach as a Certified Happy Talk Song & Sign™ Instructor.

Happy Talk -Tinies

Designed for babies ages 5 - 24 months

A nurturing class where babies (and their grownups) build early communication through music, movement, simple signs, sensory play, and joyful connection.

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Happy Talk -
Tippies

Designed for toddlers ages 18 - 30 months

An engaging class where toddlers (and their grownups) strengthen communication through music, movement, simple signs, sensory play, and playful learning.

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Happy Talk -
Tots

Designed for toddlers ages 24- 36 months

A joyful place where toddlers (and their grownups) build communication through music, movement, sign language, sensory play, and meaningful connections.

Learn more

Find Your Happy Talk Class

  • Tinies

    Ages 5–24 months

    Upcoming classes forming in the Dallas–Fort Worth area

    JOIN THE WAITLIST

  • Tippies

    Ages 18–30 months

    Upcoming classes forming in the Dallas–Fort Worth area

    JOIN THE WAITLIST

  • Tots

    Ages 24–36 months

    Upcoming classes forming in the Dallas–Fort Worth area

    JOIN THE WAITLIST

Meet Your Instructor

Hi, I'm Temeka Tillman, M.S., CCC-SLP, and I'm so glad you're here!

I'm the founder of The Hidden Gem Developmental Center, a Pediatric Speech-Language Pathologist with more than 22 years of experience, and a Certified Happy Talk Song & Sign™ Instructor.

As a Pediatric Speech-Language Pathologist and Certified Happy Talk Song & Sign™ Instructor, I intentionally weave play-based, evidence-informed language strategies into every song, activity, and interaction, creating meaningful experiences that support communication and strengthen the connection between children and their caregivers.

I founded The Hidden Gem Developmental Center because I believe every child possesses a unique brilliance. One of my greatest joys is helping babies, toddlers, and their caregivers build communication through music, movement, play, and everyday moments together.

Whether your child is just beginning to communicate, learning to use gestures and signs, or you're simply looking for a fun way to nurture language development, my hope is that every family leaves Happy Talk feeling encouraged, confident, and equipped with simple strategies they can continue using long after class ends.

I look forward to welcoming your family to Happy Talk, where we'll sing, sign, play, and grow together!

What Families Are Saying About Happy Talk

  • Caroline, Parent

    "Happy Talk was the best baby class I've ever taken! I find it stressful not knowing if I'm helping my son develop his language skills, but Christina gave us a ton of tips, songs, and games that I'm still using a year later! Learning aside, I would take this class again for the fun, singing, and games. Every baby and parent should take a class with such a knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and patient teacher! "

  • Caelainn, Mom of 3

    "Take this course! I couldn’t believe how much I didn’t know about language development during the early years. Christina breaks down her wealth of knowledge into easily digestible songs and informative videos. I completed the course feeling more confident about the ways I could effectively communicate with my baby, while doing so during little moments throughout our average day. "

  • Cassie, Librarian

    "Christina has created a program that teaches caregivers very helpful communications skills in a way that’s playful and fun for the whole family. Her enthusiasm, warmth, creativity and wonderful presentation style were a perfect fit for our library and community.”

  • Elizabeth Stillwell, Director, The Playspace

    "Happy Talk with Christina Noon is engaging, informative and most importantly fun! Christina has a welcoming, inclusive approach and a rare gift of flexibility that allows her to follow the needs and interest of the children and families present. "

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Happy Talk is designed for babies and toddlers to support early communication through music, movement, simple signs, sensory play, and caregiver-child interaction. Whether your child is just beginning to communicate, already using words, or somewhere in between. Every activity is designed to meet children where they are developmentally.

  • Absolutely! Happy Talk is especially beneficial for children who are developing speech and language skills. The class encourages language through songs, gestures, signs, play, and everyday routines in a fun, supportive environment.

  • Not at all! You'll learn simple, functional signs together during class. No previous experience is needed.

  • Each class includes music, movement, sensory play, simple signs, interactive activities, and opportunities for caregiver-child connection. You'll also leave with practical songs, signs, and strategies you can continue using during everyday routines at home.

  • Happy Talk offers developmentally appropriate classes for babies and toddlers ages 5–36 months, with classes grouped by developmental stage:

    • Tinies: 5–24 months

    • Tippies: 18–30 months

    • Tots: 24–36 months

    This helps ensure every class is engaging, interactive, and just right for your child's stage of development.

  • As a Pediatric Speech-Language Pathologist with more than 22 years of experience, I combine the evidence-based Happy Talk curriculum with my expertise in early communication development. Every class combines the joyful, evidence-informed Happy Talk curriculum with my clinical expertise in early communication development, creating engaging experiences that help children build strong communication skills through everyday play.

  • Because Happy Talk classes are designed for specific age groups, sibling participation is considered on a case-by-case basis to help create the best experience for every child. If you have questions about bringing a sibling, please reach out before registering—I'd be happy to help you find the best option for your family.

  • Not at all! Happy Talk is designed for all babies and toddlers. Whether your child is developing typically, has a speech or language delay, or you're simply looking for fun ways to support communication at home, every family is welcome.

Join the Happy Talk Waitlist

Be the first to hear about upcoming pop-up classes, new session dates, and registration openings!

JOIN THE WAITLIST