6 Children’s Books For Teaching Kids About Autism
Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or family member, talking to kids about autism can feel challenging. How do you explain the journey of autism in an age-appropriate way so they understand?
Storytelling can be an incredible, meaningful tool to promote empathy and understanding and teach other children about the everyday experiences of children with autism. If your child has autism, reading books where they can relate to the characters and their story can help them feel included and understand their experience better. From stories about the bond between siblings to tales that encourage us to own our stripes, here are 6 of the best children’s books to teach kids about Autism Spectrum Disorder.
My Brother Otto by Meg Raby
My Brother Otto is a heartwarming story that follows two little crows as the brother, Otto, moves through everyday life on the Autism spectrum. Otto and his sister Piper do everything together and Piper embraces her brother’s unique quirks and qualities with love and acceptance. This sweet story reminds us of the possibilities when we demonstrate kindness and understanding and choose to focus on our commonalities instead of our differences.
All My Stripes by Shaina Rudolph and Daniella Royer
Zane is a caring and curious young zebra who often feels different from his classmates and worries they don’t see him for who he really is. This endearing tale encourages us to look past the labels and celebrate each and every one of our beautiful stripes. All My Stripes teaches us to value our unique strengths and abilities while also giving readers insight into the everyday lives of children (and zebras!) with autism.
My Brain is a Race Car by Nell Harris
My Brain is a Race Car was inspired by Nell Harris’ daughter’s ADHD diagnosis and aims to explain some of the common traits of the neurodivergent brain. While not exclusively about autism, this accessible and beautifully-illustrated book helps explain neurodiversity in kid’s terms, making it a great tool for teaching other children about the power of a unique mind.
Leah’s Voice by Lori DeMonia
Leah’s Voice is an award-winning and uplifting story of two sisters, one of which has Autism Spectrum Disorder. The author’s oldest daughter Leah was diagnosed with autism in 2003 and the story celebrates the inspiring relationship between Lori’s two daughters. Leah’s Voice demonstrates the importance of acceptance and inclusion, while also reminding us of the magic of the human connection. It also features some of Leah’s exceptionally creative artwork.
My Brother Charlie by Holly Robinson Peete
Twin siblings Charlie and Callie have a lot in common. They have the same hair, and the same colored eyes, and they both love hot chocolate with marshmallows and rolling in the grass. But they also share a lot of differences. Told from the sister’s point of view, this heartfelt and sensitive book explores what it’s like to have a sibling with autism and the true meaning of radical compassion and acceptance.
Noah Chases the Wind by Michelle Worthington
Winner of the Gelett Burgess Children's Book Award, Noah Chases the Wind tells the story of a boy named Noah, who loves science and is full of curious and inquisitive questions. This whimsically-illustrated tale is great for teaching children of all ages about Autism and other neurodiverse exceptionalities. Noah’s story serves as a reminder of the beauty of being different and the joy of embracing other people’s perspectives.
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