Something Special (TV series) facts for kids

Something Special is a British children's television show. It is presented by Justin Fletcher. The show was created by Allan Johnston. It first aired on 9 August 2004 on the BBC.

This programme helps children learn Makaton signing. Makaton is a special language that uses signs and symbols. It is very helpful for children who have learning or communication difficulties. "Something Special" is shown on the CBeebies channel. It is the longest-running CBeebies show. It is also the longest-running preschool series in Britain. The show's name comes from the idea that all children are special.

The show's style has changed over the years. In 2012, a new series called "Something Special – We're All Friends" began. This version introduced a "Tumble Tab." This was like a special iPad that showed "special things" to look for.

Meet the Characters

The show features Justin Fletcher as "Justin." He talks and also uses Makaton signs. The show also includes clips of children with disabilities. A voice explains what is happening in these clips.

The Tumble Family

Justin Fletcher also plays other characters. These are members of the Tumble Family.

• Mr Tumble: He is a clown. He also has learning and communication difficulties.
• Grandad Tumble: Mr Tumble's grandfather.
• Barry Tumble: Another family member.
• Baby Tumble: The youngest Tumble.

Other Tumble family members have appeared too. These include Aunt Polly and Aunt Suki. There are also Lord Tumble and King Tumble.

Animal Friends

In later series, some animal characters joined the show.

• Spotty the Horse: Mr Tumble's horse. He appeared in episodes like "Animals."
• Dennis the T-Rex: A dinosaur who appeared in the "Dinosaurs" episode. This T-Rex is a display at Paultons Park.
• Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer: He appeared briefly in "A Magical Christmas."

How the Show Works

Allan Johnston created and produced "Something Special." Before joining the BBC in 1989, he was a teacher. He taught children with special needs. His experience was very important for the show.

In 2016, a new series called "Something Special – We're All Friends" started. In this series, Justin Fletcher plays Mr Tumble. It introduced the "Tumble Tap in Spotty Bag." This series follows Mr Tumble through his early life.

In March 2016, a live show was performed. It starred Justin Fletcher as Mr Tumble. This show also explored Mr Tumble's life as a baby and a young boy.

Series 12 of "Something Special – We're All Friends" was filmed in 2019. A special Diwali episode was filmed in October 2020.

Awards and Recognition

"Something Special" has won several awards for its work.

• Royal Television Society Educational Television Awards 2004: It won "Best Early Years Programme" for the episode "Garden."
• BAFTA Children's Awards 2005: It won "Best Pre-school Live Action Series."
• BAFTA Children's Awards 2007: Justin Fletcher was nominated for "Best Presenter."
• BAFTA Children's Awards 2008: Justin Fletcher won "Best Presenter."
• BAFTA Children’s Awards 2009: Justin Fletcher won "Best Presenter" again.
• BAFTA Children’s Awards 2010: Justin Fletcher won "Best Presenter" for the third time in a row.
• BAFTA Children’s Awards 2011: Justin Fletcher was nominated for "Best Presenter."

Episodes

"Something Special" has many episodes across its 12 series. Each episode helps children learn new Makaton signs. Here are some examples from the first series:

Something Special (TV series) at BBC Programmes