Which Literary Festival school sessions are suitable for younger children and address inclusion or family challenges?

Question

Accepted Answer

In the 2026 Schools Programme, Natalie Rolling, Karen Truman and Shane Dalmedo are described as aimed at younger readers or children, with Karen Truman's session explaining dementia and its effect on families. Christina Marie Giuffré covers kindness and neurodiversity, and Carnegie Medal winner Beth O'Brien explores disability representation.
Sessions described as for younger children
Natalie Rolling, Princess Penelope's Problem: introduces younger readers to respect, responsibility and empathy through interactive storytelling and creative activities, encouraging confidence in their own imaginations.
Karen Truman, Mama's Treasure Chest: through the story of Aurora and Charlie, an age-appropriate session helping children understand what dementia is and how it can affect families.
Shane Dalmedo: introduces young learners to the Gibraltarian artist Gustavo Bacarisas, combining storytelling, art and interactive discussion.
Sessions on inclusion and difference
Christina Marie Giuffré, Dear Friend series: kindness, belonging and neurodiversity, drawing on her own experience of autism and ADHD, promoting understanding and self-acceptance among young people. The release does not specify an age group.
Beth O'Brien, Wolf Siren: winner of the 2026 Carnegie Medal for Writing and the Shadowers' Choice Award. Her retelling of Little Red Riding Hood explores identity, courage and disability representation, with discussion about inclusion and finding strength in difference. The release describes her audience as young readers but does not give an age range.
Related wellbeing sessions for older pupils
Dr Alastair Santhouse discusses mental health and resilience, and Khalida Popal's session on her memoir covers growing up under Taliban rule and evacuating teammates. Neither is described as aimed at younger children.
Checking suitability
The release does not publish year groups for any session. Teachers should confirm the intended age range with the Development team at development@culture.gov.gi before booking.

Which Literary Festival school sessions are suitable for younger children and address inclusion or family challenges?

Short answer

Detailed answer

Sessions described as for younger children

Sessions on inclusion and difference

Older pupils

Checking suitability