Learning to understand the world when you are young is difficult for many children. When you, or a member of your family, can’t hear as well as everyone else, it can be even harder. Sharing stories about other children struggling with similar situations can be comforting and help children to develop coping skills.
Freddie and the Fairy – Julia Donaldson and Karen George
When Freddie rescues Bessie-Belle the fairy, she offers to grant his wishes. Unfortunately, she doesn’t hear very well and he tends to mumble and things get a bit muddled. Fortunately the Fairy Queen is on hand to explain things.
Age: 4+
What the Jackdaw Saw – Julia Donaldson and Nick Sharratt
The animals try to warn jackdaw that he is flying into danger, but he can’t understand the signs they are using. This story about friendship and sign language was written by Julia Donaldson with a group of deaf children in a workshop run by The Life & Deaf Association.
Age: 3+
Dachy’s Deaf – Jack Hughes
Dachy wears a hearing aid but sometimes, when he wants a bit of peace and quiet, he turns it off.
Age: 4+
I Can Hear! – Louise John and Andy Elkerton
A boy with impaired hearing lists all the things he can hear with his hearing aid.
Age: 5+
Echo Come Home – Megan Rix
Eleven-year-old Jake is dreading his new school. No one understands how hard it is for him to make friends. Then Jake meets Echo, a stray puppy, training to be a hearing dog. With Echo by his side, Jake’s confidence grows – but then Echo disappears.
Age: 9+
Useful Organisation
National Deaf Children’s Society
Provides support, information and advice for deaf children, young people and their families.
Hampshire Libraries 