Gaelic teddy

The world’s first Scots Gaelic speaking teddy bear is being launched in the latest effort to reinforce the language to infants at an early age.

At the press of buttons on ears, paws, feet and tummy the unique new toy speaks lots of colours, numbers and shapes in Gaelic.

The soft and cuddly bear is hoped to be a hit with toddlers and is hailed as a great aid to giving children a good start in the language.

Already talks about expanding the chatty teddy into books and TV cartoons spin-offs are being explored.

The toy was invented by former film producer Adrian Devane of County Galway in Ireland to encourage his young daughters to speak Irish Gaeilge.

The voice of three-year old Iona Maclean of High Borve on Westside Lewis will be heard on the Scots version which is currently under production.

Apart from books, there are few educational poducts for Gaelic children while the toy industry focuses on products for the hugely dominant English-speaking market.

Stornoway-based children’s publisher Acair Limited received a grant from Bòrd na Gàidhlig to develop the toy which is suitable for children aged six months upwards.

Acair chief executive, Agnes Rennie “This is a first for Acair and we are really looking forward to getting the Gaelic speaking teddy out into the shops in time for Christmas.

“The words are all common words for numbers, colours and shapes and will be as useful to parents as they will be fun for children.

“We are already in discussion with our partners in Ireland regarding the possibility of books and TV animation all featuring the talkative teddy - a great package for young families.”

Head of Education and Learning at Bord na Gàidhlig, Mary MacMillan, said “Studies have shown that encouraging children to learn a new language while young has helped them with their future learning potential.

“We believe that learning a new language while young should be fun, and we are delighted to assist Acair in creating this new interactive toy to help young children across Scotland in learning Gaelic.

The Gaelic speaking teddy bear will be available from November 2011, but will also be previewed at this year’s Royal National Mòd in Stornoway in October.

First Gaelic speaking teddy 5/7/11

Iona, with the teddy, between sisters Joanna and Kirsty