Something Special

What’s it about: Developing language and communication skills in children with learning difficulties in a fun and exciting way.

Where is it from: United Kingdom

How often is it published: Monthly

Taken from the popular award winning Cbeebies tv programme of the same name, Something Special is the only pre-school magazine that helps readers and their families communicate using the Makaton signing system. In fact every page of the magazine has Makatron signs making this colourful magazine one of a kind.

Something Special acts as a guidance for parents raising children with special needs and covers information on disorders such as autism, Downs Syndrome, chromosome disorder, cerebral palsy, hearing loss and Tourettes Syndrome among others. The magazine publishers consult with professionals from the Makaton Charity, The National Autistic Society and SEN schools.

The lifestyle column includes write-ups regarding special food and advice, special places, personal care and homes and gardens. Whilst being a great learning source, the magazine is full of amazing pictures and exciting content. A really great feature that parents have praised time and time again is the interactive element.  Parents download a readily available free App onto their phone or tablet. On opening the special video content that is linked to the magazine, readers can watch Mr Tumble painting a picture, singing songs and can even receive exclusive messages from Mr Tumble!

There are lots of activities to keep young readers entertained and amused such as puzzles, colouring in, and easy to make crafts and each issue has a unique free gift. Something Special can be purchased as a single issue, or as a subscription over 3, 6 or 12 months.