The Complete List of Children's Books about Autism & Neurodiversity

A helpful story for kids with autism spectrum disorders as they follow a young zebra who learns to understand how he is different from the rest of his classmates.
"It teaches us to embrace not only who we are, but also to embrace the people around us who are brilliantly different thanks to their own amazing, colorful stripes."—Stan Lee, Chairman emeritus of Marvel Comics
Gold Medal, Mom's Choice Awards. Foreword by Alison Singer, President, Autism Science Foundation.
Zane the zebra often feels different. He worries that his classmates don't notice his "curiosity," "honesty," or "caring stripes," just his "autism stripe." With the help of his Mama, Zane comes to appreciate all his stripes, including his "autism stripe," as the unique strengths that make him who he is.
Includes a Reading Guide with additional background information about autism spectrum disorders and a Note to Parents and Caregivers with tips for finding support.
Excerpt:
All My Stripes provides readers a small yet enlightening glimpse into a day in the life of a young, smart, caring, honest, and curious zebra named Zane. Zane is experiencing challenges at school often associated with autism spectrum disorders. This story can serve as a teaching tool for caregivers—such as parents, grandparents, and teachers—to help other children and family members understand the various challenges individuals on the autism spectrum face on a day-to-day basis. Those that are highlighted in this story are discussed in more depth in the Reading Guide.

Some people say I have a disability. But I say that I’m UNIQUE
This heartwarming story features Zak, a young boy living with autism who wants you to understand how he experiences the sights and sounds of the world around him.
Zak knows he’s not quite like his siblings and classmates. Bright lights and big crowds send him into freak-out mode. Hugs make him uncomfortable too. His atypical behaviors, from flapping his arms to spinning his body, seem so out of place. But for Zak, that’s just how he copes.
Despite some uncommon behaviors, Zak’s desires and disappointments are as ordinary as any child’s.
As Zak describes his point of view, young readers gain a better understanding of his behaviors as he teaches them important lessons about fairness, patience, curiosity, and independence.
Uniquely Wired is written for K-6 students and all those who live, work, and play with children on the autism spectrum or those who have other special needs. Tips for parents, counselors and educators are included at the end of the book to help all children understand the unique gifts kids with autism have.

Have you wondered what the world is like through the eyes of someone with Autism?
Able is a boy who has autism, inviting you to visit his unique world. This book explains autism in a special way, to help people understand more about autism, to embrace differences and to raise acceptance. This story is to empower kids with autism to believe in themselves and reach their full potential no matter what challenges they have; encouraging them to be confident in being who they are- because they are who they're meant to be!
"This is me! I am who I'm meant to be!" will show you the uniqueness and power of autism, while taking you on a journey of self-acceptance
This autism children's book is a great tool. Parents face challenges raising children with autism, ADHD, oppositional defiant disorder, also challenges in raising an exceptional child. A family guide to helping the special needs, encouraging kids in being who you are, discover your child's abilities, build confidence for kids, embracing our difference and dealing with anxiety and depression. A great autistic book for kids!

Self-regulation is having the ability to control your behavior and feelings and to manage your emotions and thoughts.
hat can Ben do when he gets angry or upset? What does his mom do when Ben does not know how to calm himself down?n I’m Just a Kid, Ben’s big emotions can be overwhelming, but with a little help from Mom, he learns how to engage more mindfully, self-regulate, and develop emotional resilience.
his is a must-have book for parents and children. It teaches kids about emotions, anger management, and self-regulation, and it is a wonderful social-emotional tool for parents, counselors, and teachers!

Having a pet dragon is so much fun!
You can teach him many things such as sit, roll over, and play…
You can teach him how to behave, how to be kind, how to control his emotions, and much more…
But what if your dragon has a new friend who has autism?
How do you explain autism to your dragon?
How do you help him understand that we’re all uniquely different, and we think, feel and experience the world differently?
How do you teach him that our differences can be helpful and get him learn important lessons about patience, understanding and tolerance so we can best accommodate our differences?
Get this book now and learn how!
Fun, cute, and entertaining with beautiful illustrations, this is a must read for children, parents and teachers to explain the basics of autism at a child’s level.
GET THIS BOOK NOW AND ENJOY!

Masterpiece is an Award-winning book, recently winning The Golden Wizard Book Prize and placing as a Top 3 Finalist for Book of the Year!
Masterpiece is an inclusive story featuring Samuel, a boy on the autism spectrum who sees the world differently than his peers. When Samuel's teacher asks his class to create a piece of art, it quickly becomes apparent that his beautiful way of looking at the world makes him a true masterpiece!
Throughout the story, the other students in his class learn lessons of empathy, understanding and acceptance. The colourful illustrations will delight children and Masterpiece may just become a family favourite.
This award-winning book is suitable for all ages!
Teachers
Here are some reasons to include 'Masterpiece' in your classroom:
Filled with gorgeous illustrations
Illustrations include noise-cancelling headphones (sensory accommodations not typically illustrated in picture books )
This book encourages children to embrace their gifts and talents
A fantastic read-aloud to teach children lessons of inclusion, empathy and understanding.
Shows children that they should embrace those unique parts of themselves that make them incredible
Celebrates the diversity in our world
Develops early literacy

"Do you want to play?" That's what Jamie, with her favourite yellow truck, asks new kid Dylan, who only seems to want to line up his cars. Can Jamie make a friend before Mommy comes to take her home?A heartwarming story of learning about others and finding new ways to have fun.
ne of the most common issues for Autistic kids is friendship. Many other children's books on this subject often depict the neurotypical child as doing their Autistic pal a favour by befriending them, often forcing them to first change a part of themselves.
o You Want to Play? takes a different approach, showing us that Autistic children are more than capable of making meaningful contributions to relationships, and suggests how typical children can alter their own approach in order to foster a true connection.
estimonial:ow it wraps up at the end is so full of kindness - I could see my child thinking about different ways of playing."York Research Chair in Autism and Neurodevelopmental Disability Mental Health
Associate Professor, Department of Psychology, Faculty of Health,
Director, LaMarsh Centre for Child and Youth Research
Associate Member, CanChildDaniel Share-Strom - Author
aniel Share-Strom is a Registered Social Worker raised in York Region, Ontario. He’s been a motivational speaker and workshop facilitator for 15 years, telling stories of his own experiences growing up Autistic and advising families and professionals how to help their loved ones, clients, and students on the autism spectrum to live their best possible lives. Together with his mother, Maxine Share, he co-founded social initiative Autism Goggles, so named because it helps people to see the world through an autism lens.
e has Honours degrees in Social Work and Communication, as well as a post-grad certificate in Children’s Media and a certificate in Positive Psychology. It is Daniel’s belief that we can change the world with the messaging we provide to our children.
o You Want to Play? is his first children’s book, but it won’t be his last!
aghmeh Afshinjah – Illustrator
orn in Tehran, Iran, Naghmeh Afshinjah has been a visual artist her entire life. A self-taught painter in different media with a Bachelor’s Degree in Graphic Design, she has worked as a graphic designer, art director, and illustrator for over 25 years.
After many years in these roles and several more dedicated to focusing on her loving Autistic son, Naghmeh opened up a home art studio. She currently teaches watercolour classes and workshops to adults and children in Stouffville, Ontario.
axine Share - Autism Consultant
axine Share is an Autistic writer, autism consultant, workshop developer, and facilitator who is a passionate champion of the strengths and potential of Autistic people across the spectrum of abilities. With her son Daniel, she created the popular full-day workshop called ‘What Doctors Don’t Tell You and Teachers Don’t Know’ to provide critical information to parents, educators, and other helping professionals who want to help Autistic students to thrive. She is a member of the Ontario government’s Minister’s Advisory Committee on Special Education.
he and Daniel run the Facebook group Autism Goggles, where her articles move readers to an informed understanding of what it can mean to be Autistic. Maxine’s mission in life is to change understanding of autism to change the actions of others. She believes that when society understands that autism is just another way of being human, her work will be done.
Maxine consulted on Do You Want to Play?.

An informative and inclusive children’s guide to neurodiversity for those not in the know and to inspire children who are neurodivergent.
ur brains are unique in the way they function, work, and think. Neurodiversity is still a relatively ’new’ concept that can be tricky to understand, but this book is here to help! This inspirational book written by neurodiverse author Louise Gooding challenges misconceptions and shows how neurodivergent brains work a little differently.
t is common for neurodiverse people and those with neurological differences to feel as though they don’t fit in, but their extraordinary differences should be embraced. Wonderfully Wired Brains teaches children aged 7-9 all about the awesome abilities that neurodiverse individuals have, introduces them to advocates who are challenging neurodiversity stereotypes, and most importantly gives them a safe space to feel accepted.
his informative and educational book for children features: - A positive, friendly look at neurodiverse brains that debunks myths and stereotypes.
- Informative, inclusive text is accompanied by colorful, modern illustrations.
- The font and colors used have been selected to accommodate a range of neurodiverse readers.
ombining neurodiverse experiences with science, history, and brain-bursting facts, Wonderfully Wired Brains has something for everyone! Whether your child is neurodiverse or not, this book will inspire inquisitive young readers and show them that no two brains function in the same way and that everyone’s differences should be celebrated. There really is no other book like it.

Book Description
Neurodiversity! What’s That? is for children aged 7 and upwards.
This book is a fun introduction to neurodiversity written by a neurodivergent mum aiming to improve the self-esteem and confidence of children.
Neurodiversity! What's That? defines keywords and ideas shared by the neurodiversity movement. Such as how different brain types don't have to be viewed as disorders while not underestimating the challenges of thinking and learning differences.
The book includes many positive messages and can also help parents navigate the world (and language) of neurodiversity.
Neurodiversity! What's That? mentions autism, PDA, ADHD, dyslexia, dyscalculia, dyspraxia, dysgraphia and Irlen Syndrome.
Why is this book important?
Children are reaching an ever increasingly early age when they search the internet independently. Neurodivergent children are then faced with a tsunami of negative information about themselves relating to their diagnosis.
Disordered, impaired and not being good enough is the message we are all being told. But what if there was an alternative? There is!
Understanding neurodiversity enables parents and children to learn about disability and differences positively, promoting self-esteem and acceptance.
his book is neurodivergent friendly!
It uses large clear fonts on a light-coloured background, making the book easier to read for dyslexics and those with visual stress.
Sentences and pictures are spaced out without too much crowding, to facilitate ease of reading.
The book is concise, which helps younger children and those with attention difficulties.

A reassuring rhyming picture book about sensory overload and what you can do when everything is too much
hen feelings go on overload,
I pause and breathe
and all is . . . slowed.
ometimes everything is too much! Too loud, too bright, and all too overwhelming. Writing from her own experience with sensory processing disorder, award-winning teacher-librarian Jolene Gutiérrez’s compassionate picture book explores the struggles of a sensorily sensitive child and how they settle themselves. Joined by Angel Chang’s beautiful color illustrations, young readers will learn that it’s OK if some days are too much.
n extensive author’s note to caregivers and educators explores sensory systems, sensory processing issues, and specific information about how to support kids with overstimulated nervous systems as they learn to soothe themselves.

Dave notices that Noah behaves differently from him. He asks his Mother if there is something wrong with his brother.
is Mother gently explains that his bother is autistic and when she is done, this leads Dave to have a better understanding and appreciation for his brother.
y Brother with Autism gently introduces Autism to children. The story book encourages kids to be loving and mindful of the differences that exists between them and autistic kids.

Through friendship, kindness, love, and acceptance, all things can be achieved!
Tic & Twitch: A Story About Tourette Syndrome
ommy was diagnosed with Tourette Syndrome at the age of 13. Rather than hating and resenting his reality, Tommy was able to accept Tourette’s as something more that contributed to his uniqueness in the world. Even so, growing up with Tourette’s is challenging. Tic and Twitch is a story about those challenges and about the beautiful things in life that make those challenges tolerable. These beautiful things to hold dear are family, friendship, kindness, love, acceptance, and learning to embrace what makes you the special person you are.
n this book...erfect for ages 5 through 10 and up!

Everything we do is because of the ways our brains work, and everyone's brain is different. Seriously! But our world doesn't operate in a way that is accepting of each brain type. Neurodiversity is what makes our world beautiful, and this author teaches us the importance of celebrating the unique ways in which our brains help us learn, feel, and experience life!
ore themes in this book:
reativity, Acceptance, Curiosity, Expression
eet A Kids Co., a new kind of media company with a collection of beautifully designed books that kickstart challenging, empowering, and important conversations for kids and their grownups.

Want to help your child learn and feel more confident about their differences while also learning kindness and acceptance of others? If so, this beautifully illustrated picture book about diversity, neurodiversity, introverts, differences and acceptance can help.Based on principles of social emotional learning, Diversity Is Our Superpower tells the story of Tim, a shy, introverted boy with social anxiety as he learns about coping with a busy birthday party. Help your child learn through story about how neurodiversity empowers us and how we can feel comfortable with differences while accepting others with kindness.
iversity Is Our Superpower can help your children:
eel more confident in their differences and neurodiversity
Manage their energy and emotions
Be aware of introvert nature
Be kind to others who are different
Be more self confident
Love and accept themselves for who they are
Celebrate and accept diversity
et this book now and help your child learn today.

Sensory Ninja shares what it's like to have sensory processing disorder and learns about a sensory diet that helps to prevent and calm triggers.
ife is tough, but so are you!
he children's book series, Ninja Life Hacks, was developed to help children learn valuable life skills. Fun, pint-size characters in comedic books easy enough for young readers, yet witty enough for adults.
he Ninja Life Hacks book series is gearedto kids 3-11. Perfect for boys, girls, early readers, primary school students, or toddlers. Excellent resource for counselors, parents, and teachers alike.
ollect all the Ninja Life Hacks books and visit the author's profile for fun freebies!
inja Life Hacks Emotions and Feelings Box Set
Ninja Life Hacks Growth Mindset Book Set
Ninja Life Hacks Leadership Book Set
Ninja Life Hacks Mover and Shaker Book Set
Ninja Life Hacks Self-Management Book Set
Ninja Life Hacks Self-Awareness Book Set
Ninja Life Hacks Decision-Making Book Set
Ninja Life Hacks Social Awareness and Relationship Skills
Ninja Life Hacks Mindsets
Ninja Life Hacks Ninjas on Holiday
Ninja Life Hacks Ninjas Go!

Neurodivergent Ninja explains some of the challenges and ways to bring about the best of the G.I.F.T. of Neurodiversity.
ife is hard! It's even harder for children who are just trying to figure things out.
he children's book series, Ninja Life Hacks, was developed to help children learn valuable life skills. Fun, pint-size characters in comedic books easy enough for young readers, yet witty enough for adults.
he Ninja Life Hacks book series is geared to kids 3-11. Perfect for boys, girls, early readers, primary school students, or toddlers. Excellent resource for counselors, parents, and teachers alike.
ollect all the Ninja Life Hacks books and visit the author's profile for fun freebies!
inja Life Hacks Emotions and Feelings Box Set
Ninja Life Hacks Growth Mindset Book Set
Ninja Life Hacks Leadership Book Set
Ninja Life Hacks Mover and Shaker Book Set
Ninja Life Hacks Self-Management Book Set
Ninja Life Hacks Self-Awareness Book Set
Ninja Life Hacks Decision-Making Book Set
Ninja Life Hacks Social Awareness and Relationship Skills Box Set
Ninja Life Hacks Mindsets Box Set
Ninjas Go! Box Set

Empower your child to express themselves, handle big emotions, and make friends—with this fun, neurodiversity-affirming activity book for autistic kids ages 5 to 10.
here are many ways for kids to develop their social-emotional learning—and it doesn’t have to be on the playground or in an unfamiliar place. This activity book for autistic kidsprovides your child with a safe space to learn and practice everything from coping with big emotions to taking turns and learning to compromise. Written by experienced therapist Emily Mori, MS, LCPC, CAS, Social-Emotional Learning for Autistic Kids helps kids develop fulfilling relationships and feel more confident in the world around them. Through 50 engaging activities, tips for adapting the activities, and advice for how parents and caregivers can be supportive, your child will gain the social and emotional skills—and confidence—they need for healthy self-esteem and a rich social life.
nside Social-Emotional Learning for Autistic Kids, you’ll find:50 fun and creative activities. Research shows that creative expression helps to relieve stress and anxiety and helps kids communicate more openly. Through art, music, storytelling, and role-playing, your child will learn how to better navigate life’s ups and downs.
Real-life scenarios and skill-building, from practicing cool-down techniques and naming their feelings to learning how to hold and respect boundaries, make and maintain friendships, and speak up for themselves.
Tips to adapt and extend activities. Tailor activities to your child’s individual needs and abilities, and continue to support your child's social-emotional learning at home.
A neurodiversity-affirming approach. Written by a certified autism specialist who empowers kids to embrace their unique strengths and needs.

Your brain is beautiful!
id you know that everyone sees the world a little differently? Some like loud noises, while others prefer quiet spaces. Some like playing together, while others prefer doing their own thing. And that’s ok!
n this story, you will meet four best friends, Puppy, Kitty, Bunny and Teddy, who have a lot in common and a lot of differences as well. Follow along as we learn about the four friends and all of the qualities that make them unique, just like you!
his book is a great way to explain Neurodiversity to children 3-6 as well as to support inclusion and acceptance among all children. Every kindergarten home, classroom and daycare needs this book as a subtle and gentle way to help kids understand that everyone sees the world differently, and that's ok.
very Brain is Beautiful promotes acceptance, understanding and inclusion without making anyone feel centred out as odd or different. If you're looking for a great end of year or holiday gift for your child's teacher, get them a copy of this cute inclusive story.

All About Autism: A Kid's Guide to Understanding Autism
Introducing 'All About Autism: A Kid's Guide to Understanding Autism' - the perfect book for young readers to learn about Autism in plain and simple language! With colorful illustrations and engaging text, this book is designed to help children under 8 understand what Autism is and how it affects different people.
Through different characters and helpful tips, readers will learn how to be a kind and supportive friend to someone with Autism.
Whether you're a kid or an adult, 'All About Autism' is an essential tool for anyone who wants to learn more about this fascinating and inspiring community. So come and explore the wonderful world of Autism with us today!
Ideal for kids going through the diagnosis process.