Something Special
A great pick
Ages 2–6First shown 2003
Something Special is a children's television programme produced and broadcast by the BBC. The producer is Allan Johnston who worked as a teacher of children with special needs before joining the BBC in 1989. It is designed to teach children signing supported by Makaton gestures, and is specifically aimed at children with delayed learning and communication difficulties. It is aired on CBeebies (both the separate channel and CBeebies on BBC One and BBC Two). It is presented by Justin Fletcher ("Justin" from Tikkabilla), and features various other characters (also played by Justin) and clips of disabled children. Justin speaks as well as signing, and a spoken narrative is provided over the clips of children. The characters played by Justin (other than himself) are the Tumble Family: Mr Tumble, Grandpa Tumble and Baby Tumble. Other members of the Tumble family to have made recent appearances include two Aunts - Polly and Suki (as in the popular nursery rhyme "Polly Put The Kettle On"). The name of the programme derives from the idea that all children, irrespective of their position on the learning spectrum, are special. A new series for 2006 started on 17 September 2006 and features the same characters as previous series. Mr Tumble can be seen in a school in the opening credits.
Our verdict
- Good influence 5/5
- Parent appeal 4/5
- Well made 5/5
Reviewers celebrate the show for its ground-breaking inclusivity, placing children with disabilities at the heart of the series and normalising their experiences for a mainstream audience. While the lead presenter’s energetic performance style is polarizing for some adults, his award-winning talent and the show’s success in teaching Makaton signing are highly respected. Overall, it is seen as a thoughtful, high-quality production that fosters communication and empathy in young children.
Why these scores
Good influence
Does it show behaviour you'd be happy to see copied?
5out of 5
The series is highly commended for its inclusive approach, featuring children with diverse abilities as central participants in everyday activities. Reviewers appreciate how it naturally models empathy and teaches Makaton signing to help young viewers communicate more effectively.
Parent appeal
Will you enjoy watching it with them?
4out of 5
Many parents find the show pleasant and engaging, noting that the gentle humour and celebrity impressions are often aimed at entertaining adults as well as children. While most find it easy company, a minority of viewers find the presenter’s high-energy style difficult to tolerate.
Well made
Are the writing, animation and sound made with care?
5out of 5
The production is widely regarded as expertly crafted, with a perfected format that has earned numerous industry awards. The lead presenter is praised for his versatile comedic performances and his natural, warm interactions with children of all abilities, though one or two observers find the acting slightly forced.
Watch-outs
Overstimulating: not enough data
We haven't found enough independent sources to say yet.
Toy-led: not enough data
We haven't found enough independent sources to say yet.
Grating audio: not enough data
We haven't found enough independent sources to say yet.
Where to watch
Stream for free
- Not that we know of
Stream with a subscription
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Rent or buy
- Not that we know of
DVD and Blu-ray
Last updated 11 October 2026.