Science meets magic in an innovative new teaching resource for children which aims to demystify the dry data around genetics and disability and encourage understanding and acceptance of people who have a genetic condition.
Launched today, (Monday, October 20th), Roots of Fantastical Matters: Extra Magical Humans is an eye-catching ‘Magical Newspaper’ which uses fantastical characters and ideas to convey complex science around DNA, genes and chromosomes, as well as encourage conversation about disability and inclusion in a way which feels accessible and real to children.
The resource is the result of an exciting collaboration between the Down’s Syndrome Association (DSA), Unique and the Turner Syndrome Support Society (TSSS) – charities which foster awareness about and offer support to people with genetic conditions. It was created by the storytelling wizards at International Elf Service, whose products combine elements of magic and storytelling to help children and families connect with important themes that matter in everyday life.
The resource is the result of an exciting collaboration between the Down’s Syndrome Association (DSA), Unique and the Turner Syndrome Support Society (TSSS) – charities which foster awareness about and offer support to people with genetic conditions. It was created by the storytelling wizards at International Elf Service, whose products combine elements of magic and storytelling to help children and families connect with important themes that matter in everyday life.
The Magical Newspaper is:
- Designed to be read to children to support inclusive conversations in schools, groups and homes (it is ideal for children 5 to 13 years old).
- Ideal for siblings, friends and classmates of children who have genetic conditions, and also for young people who have genetic differences themselves.
- A tool that can help teachers and other professionals and parents talk about disability with warmth and clarity.
- A way to encourage curiosity, empathy, and a celebration of difference.
Says Carol Boys OBE, Chief Executive at the Down’s Syndrome Association (DSA), the UK’s leading charity supporting people who have Down’s syndrome to live full and rewarding lives: “Children understand stories; they thrive in a fantasy world, so we are delighted to have come up with something with the wonderful creative minds at International Elf Service that’s full of magic and imagination, but also rooted in truth, empathy, and real science. We want it to be used to challenge assumptions and make the reality of living with Down’s syndrome or other genetic conditions visible, relatable and part of everyday learning.”
Explains Sarah Wynn, Chief Executive Officer at Unique, a charity which supports families affected by rare chromosome and gene disorders: “We’re always on the lookout for exciting new ways to explore and share stories about genetics and rare chromosome and gene disorders. That’s why we were over the moon when the brilliant International Elf Service, offered to provide us with this fantastic resource bursting with sparkling stories, curious creatures, and hands-on activities that make learning feel like an adventure! It’s not just fun to read, it’s also a wonderfully playful way to learn.”
Says Arlene Smyth, Executive Officer at the Turner Syndrome Support Society (TSSS) which offer supports to women and families with the rare genetic disorder: “Genetics is complex and anything that can help children understand and accept that it is ok to be different can be life changing. We are delighted to have worked collaboratively to improve knowledge and understanding of genetics. In an interesting and fun way for all. Understanding of individual differences can hopefully lead to better acceptance and tolerance of Rare Conditions in some small way.”
With its unique blend of magic and storytelling to create beautiful, eye-catching, and thought stimulating products, International Elf Service was a perfect partner for the project.
Says Emily Beckloff, founder of International Elf Service: “It’s been such an honour to have worked on this brilliant and important project. I hope this Magical Newspaper proves to be an invaluable tool for children and their families to learn about chromosomal differences and facilitate much needed conversations about disability and inclusion.”
