About us

We are a small family-run business. We pride ourselves on the collaboration between poet and artists, which has enabled us to create these unique gifts for children.

Emma Daykin – Writer and Poet	Emma has written for pleasure and professionally for many years. The scope of her work includes fiction and poetry, as well as educational prospectuses, teaching materials, holiday brochures and press releases. Emma lives with her family in Farnham, Surrey. She says, “The written word has the most amazing powers. Poetry can enchant, inspire and bring great joy. I hope that LifeTime Rhymes will provide many opportunities for sharing fun and laughter with your special children, and help create happy memories.”
Sian studied illustration as part of her Graphic Design Degree at Exeter College of Art and Design. Oxford University Press spotted her talent and gave her many commissions including illustrations for their prestigious Oxford poetry book series. Sian lives with her husband and young family in the Midlands. She says, “I loved illustrating the Special Boy LifeTime Rhyme – Artist Edition, and got lost in the enchanting verses. I wish you and your special boy as much fun as I had when creating the pictures.”	Sian Smith – Artist and Illustrator
Simon Whitcomb – Artist and Illustrator	Simon studied art at West Surrey College of Art and Design, and Portsmouth University. He has drawn since childhood, and started his working life as a layout and graphics artist. As well as painting sea and landscapes, he produces comic strips, greetings cards and t-shirts bearing his designs. Simon lives with his wife, young son and daughter on the south coast. He says, “I had great fun creating the illustrations for the Special Girl LifeTime Rhyme – Artist Edition. I hope you and your special girl enjoy the magical words and images as much my daughter and me!”
We created the first LifeTime Rhyme in 2005 when our niece produced baby Joshua. We wanted to mark the occasion with a special gift to be enjoyed and treasured. Our search of shops and internet proved fruitless. So, we decided to create something really different ourselves.
	Helen and Joshua – Our Inspiration!

After our frustrating search for a gift, the idea of a poem for Joshua came naturally - from my passion for the written word and my empathy for children. (I’ve been involved with children through teaching, voluntary work and my own family.)

We made the poem into a really special gift by including Joshua’s name at the top and our message at the bottom. By incorporating cartoon illustrations and then framing, we created an attractive wall decoration which could be enjoyed by all.

My niece and family are thrilled with the gift. They love the way the framed poem works in different ways: as a colourful room decoration; a fun way to enjoy verse; the inspirational sentiment.

When people saw Joshua’s special gift, we were often asked to create something similar for others to give. The idea for LifeTime Rhymes grew from there.

We sought-out talented artists to interpret our verses sensitively and humorously. We think the artwork produced by Sian and Simon for the Artist Editions is stunning, and will help fuel any child’s imagination.

The Cartoon Editions are illustrated in another style to cater for different tastes. These also have a unique charm.

What makes LifeTime Rhymes so special

• Fun, inspiration and feeling special

Every child thrives when encouraged to have fun , inspired to reach their full potential , and made to feel special . From our feedback we know that's exactly what these personalised gifts help to do.

• Learning to communicate

The value of rhythm and rhyme in child development is well researched. It's easier (and fun!), to memorise passages that scan and rhyme . Listening to sounds and learning- by-heart helps reading and other forms of communication. LifeTime Rhymes use strong rhythm and rhyme. Use the free laminated copy for all sorts of fun activities.

• Stunning wall decoration

Our artists have illustrated the verses in fabulous pictures and, as children grow , they find different things to fascinate them - the colours , the funny characters , counting objects, seeing their name and reading your message .

We have selected the frames and mounts especially to compliment the artwork and provide a choice to suit a range of room styles. They look wonderful in a child's bedroom, playroom or anywhere else.

• A very special gift and much more

Personalisation with the child's name and your message ensures that your LifeTime Rhyme gift will become a treasured keepsake . Toys and gadgets are often sadly discarded on a whim, or as fashions change. LifeTime Rhymes have long-lasting appeal to both children and adults.