Special books to support pre-school SEND children

The books are designed to help support children's emotional and sensory needs

Special book bags have been designed for neurodivergent children to support their emotional and sensory needs.

Darlington Libraries has created the bags which contain books suitable for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) and can be borrowed for free.

Inside are five books recommended for pre-school age children and they explore feelings and emotions or offer tactile sensory experiences.

They also contain information about support available to families.

Councillor Nick Wallis, Darlington Borough Council's cabinet member for children and young people, said the project would provide children with a "practical and enjoyable tool" to encourage communication and connection.

"Sharing books from an early age can help promote speech and language development, improve speaking and listening skills, strengthen bonding and attachment, and create a rich sensory play experience," he added.

The Labour-led council said the books had been chosen by library staff and could be used for story time or sensory play.

Wallis added: "Our libraries are there for everyone to enjoy and we're delighted to be able to provide these new resources to help make them even more accessible and inclusive."