Cbeebies - Something special
Some children experiencing difficulties with learning may be in Special settings or in Special schools.
The format is simple, fun and informative and each programme focuses on aspects of the children’s world about them. Scenes from real life experiences give context to the children’s learning.
Topics covered include:
Children will see other children playing in the park, at an Aquarium, helping Dad in the home and will be introduced to Grandma.
Educational
The language used throughout each programme is supported by Makaton signs and symbols and is designed to be understood by children in the early stages of language development. Children using some Makaton signs or symbols will find these really useful and will be able to learn new signs too!
The benefits of using signs or symbols in helping children with learning difficulties is recognised as good practice in Early Years Education.
Parents and carers should not worry about children learning Makaton signs. The signs are based on gestures we all use and help children who find communication difficult: to understand and make themselves understood! Signs are always used together with speech - watch Justin. And children always have to use speech sounds or words when they sign to their teachers, parents or friends. When children become more confident speakers they simply stop using signs, as they no longer need them.
The simple format and the repetitive aspects to each programme will help children to absorb new information or remember something they have previously learned. There is also frequent use of well-known nursery rhymes and tunes. This is particularly important as it underpins early phonic skills.
Even very young children who do not have difficulties with learning can gain so much. They will quickly learn the names of everyday items, actions and settings. The activities used throughout the series, include aspects of the Early Learning Goals that encourage children’s learning.
Programmes relating to Knowledge and Understanding of the World provide the opportunity for children to both explore aspects of their environment, the park, transport or the school and then to extend their experiences to topics perhaps not so readily available to them, for example the sea and jungle animals. All children need to extend their knowledge and use of vocabulary. Here, new words are introduced in a meaningful context but they are not overloaded with lots of new vocabulary in each programme. And there are lots of opportunities to come across the newly learned words again and again.
Each programme provides a super basis for teacher or carer to reinforce vocabulary, language or concepts. They can use each programme as a part of a topic or to add meaning to a child's experiences.
Numeracy is woven into many of the topics giving children opportunity to explore colour, shape and size.
Throughout there is a super social dimension with greetings and good-byes reinforced and where children can value themselves or others; the way they move or the way they behave towards each other or toward the adults that help or toward the animals or plants. Justin and Mr Tumble model good behaviour which is reinforced in the clips of children playing or working together. But especially there is Mr Tumble!The Presenter
The Presenter, Justin Fletcher, takes the children through each programme in an interactive and visually engaging way. He combines this with the use of signal words, such as 'Look', is important to keep the children watching, listening and participating. Each programme has the same opening and closing sequence that children will engage with: this is especially beneficial for those who need signals as to what comes next.
Mr TumbleJustin frequently switches into the very colourful Mr Tumble role. Whilst in this role he reinforces signs, language and experiences in an amusing and wacky way. He dresses up, wears hats or even big shoes! He moves around in a very wobbly way and has lots and lots of fun. All children will love him!