Storybooks to Help Children Understand Autism and Sensory Processing Disorder
April is National Autism Awareness Month and what better way to gain awareness than by reading and teaching your child about autism and sensory processing disorder. Whether your child is on the spectrum, you know someone who is autistic, or you simply wish to teach your child to understand and be inclusive, there is a story for you!
All My Stripes: A Story for Children with Autism by Shaina Rudolph and Danielle Royer
Zane the Zebra struggles with kids at school only seeing his “autism stripe,” but his mother reminds him that he has many other stripes, like courage, honesty, and love.
Isaac and His Amazing Asperger Superpowers! by Melanie Walsh
Isaac is different than other kids as he has superpowers! He has more energy, super hearing and his brain can remember more stuff. Isaac learns to celebrate these differences and learn about his Asperger’s syndrome.
Ellie Bean the Drama Queen by Jennie Harding
Ellie Bean may seem like a “drama queen,” but really she is learning how to handle her sensory issues.
My Brother Charlie by Holly Robinson Peete and Ryan Elizabeth Peete with Denene Miller
A big sister tells a story about living with her twin brother Charlie who is autistic. The story is based off the actress and author’s 10 year old son.
Squirmy Wormy : How I Learned to Help Myself by Lynda Farrington Wilson
Tyler talks about how he learned to cope with his autism and sensory processing disorder. While he still has trouble with loud noises and staying still, he tells the reader some exercises he has learned to help himself.
Sensory Friendly Stories for Children
Our downtown, main location offers Sunshine Storytime and Playtimes for all abilities. These events offer a welcoming environment and are designed for children who prefer small groups or have sensory, social or developmental challenges. Children are invited to play, develop friendships and grow an appreciation for individual differences. Here are a few of our sensory friendly stories to share at home. These stories incorporate colors, shapes, sounds, movements and rhymes to encourage interactive play.
Dog’s Colorful Day: A Messy Story About Colors and Counting by Emma Dodd
As dog goes through his day, he finds different colors have made it onto his white jacket.
Press Here by Hervé Tullet
Press the yellow dot and use your imagination to create a magical journey!
Lots of Dots by Craig Frazier
Find the dots in everyday items!
If you’re a Monster and You Know It by Rebeeca and Ed Emberely
Stomp, wiggle, and clap along with this new version of “If You’re Happy and You Know It!”
Pete the Cat- I Love My White Shoes by Eric Litwin
Follow Pete the Cat on a colorful journey with his white shoes.
