Books are fabulous tools. They entertain, provide knowledge, and can transport us to other worlds. For kids with autism, books do all of that and so much more.
Similar to ABA Therapy (Applied Behavioral Analysis), books can teach children with autism to understand their behavior and the behavior of those around them. Books can also introduce characters with autism who have experienced similar challenges, like having difficulty fitting in or struggling with sensory overload. Although every child with ASD is unique, they can relate to characters who think and act more like them. It is comforting to know that someone else feels the same way!
Read on to learn about some of the best books for kids with autism.
Different Like Me (ages 2 to 6)
In Different Like Me, an 8-year-old boy named Quinn teaches his classmates about his autism heroes, such as Albert Einstein and Lewis Carroll. All these historical figures are inspirational and excelled in their fields but found it challenging to fit in, much like Quinn.
All My Stripes (ages 4 to 7)
All My Stripes is about Zane, a zebra with autism. Zane learns to embrace himself and others around him for their differences when his mother explains that autism is one of many qualities that make him special.
Why Does Izzy Cover Her Ears (ages 4 to 8)
Why Does Izzy Cover Her Ears is helpful for kids with autism, their siblings, and their classmates. It helps them understand some of the more common behaviors and traits of children with autism, including sensory overload.
Uniquely Wired: A Story About Autism and Its Gifts (ages 4 to 11)
Zak doesn’t like hugs, bright lights, or big crowds. In Uniquely Wired: A Story About Autism and Its Gifts, Zak explains what it’s like to experience the sights and sounds in the world around him. It also portrays Zak as having many gifts as a result of his uniquely-wired brain, instead of showing autism as a disadvantage.
Benji, the Bad Day, and Me (ages 6 to 8)
Benji, the Bad Day, and Me is told from the point of view of Sammy, who has a brother with autism, named Benji. Sammy has a bad day and comes home to find Benji sitting in his special box where he needs to go when he’s had a frustrating day. Sammy believes that Benji gets special treatment when he has a bad day, but no one notices when he himself has the same difficulties. Ultimately, it is Benji who most understands Sammy and comforts him. This book is also helpful for neurotypical siblings and classmates to better understand what it’s like to live and interact with children with autism.
Noah Chases the Wind (ages 3 to 8)
Noah Chases the Wind describes a child who hears, feels, and thinks in a way that others don’t always understand, and the questions he asks to better understand the world around him. This book celebrates the inquisitive nature of children with autism. It also includes a page for caregivers and educators about the importance of helping children with autism feel good about their differences.
A Friend for Henry (preschool to age 7)
A Friend for Henry describes Henry, who often misreads social situations and struggles to make friends. He eventually meets Katie, a quiet girl who likes to read like he does. Although they have differences, such as Katie’s bravery on a big slide, the two connect over commonalities. Henry realizes that friends don’t have to be exactly alike to appreciate each other.
Individualized ABA therapy for kids with autism
At GBC Autism Services, we provide ABA therapy to children with autism in the areas of Chicagoland, Peoria, Normal, Rockford, Springfield, Dekalb, and North-West Indiana. Our services include in-home and clinic-based ABA therapy, early intervention services, school consultations, and social skills groups.
The team at GBC doesn’t only focus on the behaviors that might be seen as weaknesses in children with autism. We accept and appreciate each child’s unique abilities and incorporate them into our programming. In fact, we love to learn about each child’s interests and strengths and only look to help them navigate the world better.
