A truly unique kids TV show that adults can enjoy too (Something Special)

Member Name: bruffyboy

Product:	Something Special
Date:	30/03/09 (40 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: educational

Disadvantages: those damn women

This children's TV show from the BBC features Justin and Mr Tumble (the same person) as they get up to a series of basic adventures, such as running a jumble sale. The unique selling point about the show is that it features Makaton sign language the whole way through, and stars children with disabilities.

I have to say that I immediately liked this show, as it is a great way of getting kids used to seeing disabled people, taking away any stigma and oddity of seeing them in real life. My two year old son loves it, and I know that he will now find nothing strange about meeting, for example, his cousin who has cerebral palsy.

The show is interesting in that it is NOT for deaf people, but aims rather to widen the public knowledge of sign language, which it also teaches to viewers. You can tell it's not for deaf people, as the show uses sound widely, which adds to the appeal for young kids but would make it almost impossible to understand and follow if you were deaf.

The character 'Mr Tumble' is a clumsy clown who takes part in a lot of slapstick comedy that will appeal to those kids who enjoy watching people fall over. Justin is a normal guy, who communicates through sign language throughout the whole thing. Because of the sign language angle, it's actually quite interesting for adults to watch too, as it's semi-educational.

The only thing I don't like about the program is the two women who sing songs - the quality of their singing is seriously lacking, and I can't help but think they should have done a better job of casting these roles.

The show can be seen any time you like on the BBC Iplayer.

Summary: watch it!