This Little Girl’s Neighbors Learned Sign Language So She Could Go Trick-Or-Treating For The First Time—And It’s The Sweetest Thing Ever

Six-year-old Ada Hawkes from Worcestershire finally got to experience the joy of trick-or-treating for the very first time this Halloween—and it was all thanks to her amazing neighbors. They learned British Sign Language (BSL) so they could chat with her, spooky costumes and all.

Ada was diagnosed as profoundly deaf when she was just 18 months old, and she communicates using BSL. In the past, the noise, darkness, and masks that come with Halloween made the night extra tricky for her to enjoy.

Her mum, Tilly, knew how much her daughter was missing out. So, she decided to turn things around in the most heartwarming way possible.

Teaming up with Cadbury Fingers and the National Deaf Children’s Society, Tilly launched a local mission to teach neighbors basic BSL phrases. The idea was simple but powerful—help everyone learn a few key signs so Ada could join in on the Halloween fun.

Within weeks, 60% of households in their area jumped on board and began learning sign language. They even received special packs with phrases like “trick or treat” and “you look spooky” written out in BSL.

Those who joined the initiative proudly displayed signs in their windows showing they were part of the project. Expert sign language tutors even stopped by to give lessons and ensure everyone’s signs were on point.

For Tilly, watching her community come together like this was nothing short of magical. “People open doors and speak, and she won’t understand any of that,” she explained, recalling how isolating previous Halloweens had been for Ada.

“She’s left out, and it’s stressful for her, so we’ve avoided it in the past,” Tilly continued. “But this year, the fact that our street now knows a little BSL—it’s just incredible.”

She said she couldn’t wait to take Ada trick-or-treating and see her daughter light up as her neighbors signed back to her. “Having her neighbors communicate with her in BSL is going to be so exciting,” she added, smiling.

The initiative didn’t just make one little girl’s night—it also sparked a bigger conversation about inclusion. Susan Daniels, Chief Executive at the National Deaf Children’s Society, said it’s a vital reminder of how small actions can make a huge difference.

“Together, we’re raising awareness about the communication barriers deaf children face,” she explained. “We want to see a more inclusive world where every deaf child can be part of the conversation.”

Cadbury Fingers’ senior brand manager, Anastasia Lutskovskaya, agreed, saying even the simplest gestures can make someone feel seen. “Just knowing basic BSL can make a deaf person feel included in moments of celebration and sharing,” she said.

Recent research shows just how important these efforts are. Out of 2,000 adults surveyed, nearly 60% said they’d never used BSL, and 67% admitted they’d find it difficult to communicate with a deaf person.

Even more telling—71% said they wouldn’t feel confident enough to even say hello. For many deaf individuals, that lack of communication keeps them from fully joining in on community celebrations.

A separate survey of 400 deaf participants revealed that 25% have never gone trick-or-treating before, while 43% said they’ve often felt left out of the fun. For Ada, though, this year’s Halloween was a completely different story.

With smiling neighbors signing “trick or treat” right back to her, she finally got to join in on one of childhood’s most cherished traditions. And the photos from that night? Pure joy, with Ada beaming under her costume, surrounded by people who made her feel included.

Online, people couldn’t stop praising the neighbors for their kindness and effort. Many said it was the perfect example of what community spirit truly looks like—and proof that learning even a few signs can open up a world of connection.

Ada's neighbors learned British Sign Language (BSL) so they could chat with her, spooky costumes and all.

Freepik (Not the actual photo)

Ada was diagnosed as profoundly deaf when she was just 18 months old, and she communicates using BSL.

STV News

The idea was simple but powerful—help everyone learn a few key signs so Ada could join in on the Halloween fun.

STV News

Learning British Sign Language (BSL) as a means to communicate with Ada is an inspiring demonstration of community support. Experts in child development emphasize the importance of inclusive practices, particularly for children with disabilities. Dr. Becky Kennedy, a child psychologist, advocates for such actions, stating that fostering inclusive environments can significantly enhance children's emotional well-being and social skills. Community engagement not only benefits the child directly but also cultivates empathy and awareness among peers, leading to a more inclusive society.

Implementing regular sign language workshops could further enhance community understanding and support for children like Ada.

Communication specialists stress the importance of not just learning sign language but also understanding the cultural nuances associated with it. Dr. Patricia McConnell, an animal behaviorist, likens this to understanding the social behaviors of different species. She notes that just as we must respect animal communication, we should honor the rich culture of the Deaf community. By incorporating deaf culture awareness into educational settings, communities can foster deeper connections with individuals who use sign language, enhancing mutual respect.

Training programs that include cultural sensitivity can strengthen community bonds and reduce misunderstandings.

"This year, the fact that our street now knows a little BSL—it’s just incredible.”

STV News

“Having her neighbors communicate with her in BSL is going to be so exciting.”

STV News

“Together, we’re raising awareness about the communication barriers deaf children face.”

STV News

The Importance of Inclusion

Ada's experience highlights a crucial aspect of childhood development: inclusion. According to Dr. T. Berry Brazelton, a renowned pediatrician, inclusive practices are vital for building a sense of belonging. He notes that children who feel accepted and understood are more likely to develop healthy relationships and social skills. Involving neighbors in learning BSL demonstrates a proactive approach to fostering these qualities, emphasizing the role of community in supporting children with disabilities.

Such initiatives can be expanded by organizing community events that celebrate diversity and promote understanding.

“We want to see a more inclusive world where every deaf child can be part of the conversation.”

STV News

See more on Ada's story here.

This Halloween, one small town in Worcestershire showed that inclusion isn’t scary—it’s heartwarming. And for Ada, that first handful of candy was more than a treat—it was a milestone worth celebrating.

The story of Ada and her neighbors is a heartwarming reminder of the power of community and inclusion. Experts like Dr. T. Berry Brazelton emphasize that such inclusive actions not only benefit children with disabilities but also enrich the lives of those around them. Building a culture of acceptance requires ongoing efforts, including educational workshops and community events that promote understanding. By making small, consistent strides toward inclusivity, we can create environments where every child feels valued and supported, fostering a truly inclusive society.