Year-ender: 10 awe-inspiring stories in China

Hu Yunjia, 6, nicknamed Niuniu, has become an enthusiastic business helper in a "silent" foot spa where the owner and all of the employees are hearing-impaired, serving as a sign language translator for customers.

"Madam, how is your day and what help do you need?" "Sir, my dad asked you to take this ointment back home and apply it." Niuniu, the daughter of the shop owner, delivers her father's message, who is also the shop owner, to the customers in her sweet child voice and with rich body language, frequently amusing the guests.

Niuniu started learning sign language from her parents at the age of two and began assisting at the shop at the age of four after kindergarten hours and on holidays.

"Dad taught me to be diligent," Niuniu said. In her view, her parents are like superheroes who look after the family and her despite their inability to hear and speak.