Books for children with special needs 

Telling stories in a creative and imaginative way is what Head2Head Sensory Theatre does best and many of our stories are adapted from classic books and fairy tales like Pinocchio, Cinderella, The Wizard of Oz and more.  

For World Book day we want to celebrate some special stories and lesser known books which have been created especially for children with special needs.  

Here are some of our favourite books for children with special needs.  

Kat Pond says:  

“My favourite is Simon Sock. It’s not overtly SEN but it’s the story of Simon an odd sock who doesn’t have a partner and he can’t find his match.  I always cry at the end when I tell this to my children. It’s a story about friendship and that being different and unique is okay.” 

Anni Rhodes-Steere Founder of Head2Head said:  

“There are so many wonderful books that we have recommended to our families over the years. One of my favourites is The Woods. A Story which is told to a beat. Beat is absolutely fundamental to the development of communication and something everyone responds to. The story is about someone walking through a woodland who thinks they hear something behind them and begins to run, imagining what might be behind. The story ends happily with a cup of tea. 

Dandelion is another favourite which tells the remarkable life story of the Dandelion through sensory experiences.  

These books can be ordered online here: https://www.thesensoryprojects.co.uk/sensory-stories 

If you want get lost in the world of storytelling Head2Head Sensory theatre is touring Kent, Buckinghamshire and Sussex this Spring with its multi-sensory shows and storytelling experiences.   

Multi-Sensory show – The Chicken Circus 

Chicken Circus is a sensory show touring this spring

Chicken Circus is a Makaton Friendly multi-sensory show is a sensory adaptation of the Animal Tales children’s story by Terry Jones.  

The show is written especially for a special needs and disabilities (SEND) audience.  Expect bright sets, puppetry, music, sensory props and costumes to stimulate and encourage participation from everyone. 

 Follow feisty Mr. Fox who steals chickens to train them as circus performers.   

Sensory Storytelling – The Wizard of Oz 

Enjoy the sensory storytelling of the Wizard of Oz followed by crafts. Journey to the land of Oz in this twisted sensory take on the classic novel.  Make friends with the Lion, The Scarecrow and the Tin man and click your sparkly shoes together to return back home to Kansas in time for tea and cake. 

Using a mix of simple narrative and Makaton signing, our highly engaging sensory storyteller will create an easy to follow and playful experience so everyone can be a part of the story. Followed by a crafts session where you can make and take home your own scarecrow or hot air balloon. 

Book online now.