Browse this list of recommended books for parents, educators, and others who work with children on the autism spectrum. Some of the books are first-person accounts about how the world looks to people on the autism spectrum, and others are written by parents, psychologists, and ASD experts about how to understand and support children and young adults on the spectrum.
Are there really aliens? Or just things that are alien to us? Meet aliens from outer space, reported and completely imaginary, in the pages of these out-of-this-world books. All are recommended for kids ages 0-9.
Celebrate what makes you, you the clothes you wear, the style of your hair, the sound of your name, the way you are, and the things you know. We’re all the same and all different as these recommended books for kids ages 0-9 show with high-energy humor and honesty. It all begins with you!
Look around your neighborhood. What do you see? People on the go, machines at work (sometimes noisily!) and more. Look up. What might you see? Airplanes of course, but maybe also a small unmanned craft. Take a spin with these picture books for kids 3–9, all about things — and people — that go.
Have you ever thought that one person can change an entire country and save hundreds of lives? Celebrate some of the amazing women who have affected more lives than they could have imagined, all on the pages of these books. Discover many more related titles with Book Finder.
The Greek myths continue to intrigue and inspire readers and writers and even filmmakers. Names from mythology have crept into the English language. Novelists continue or retell the stories. Younger children appreciate the spirit of the Greek myths — perhaps because they reveal universal truths. But above all, Greek myths are good stories with strong characters. Read about them here — but remember, the ancient Greeks were a hearty people — and so their myths are not for the faint of heart!
Some animals live in houses; others live in swamps or rainforests or farms. Some stay at home; others travel far and wide. Many make sounds; all eat food of one sort or another. Read about animals of all types — with and without stripes — in the books suggested here.
If there’s one thing that could make you smile, even on a bad day, it’s a baby animal. Young humans may recognize themselves as they read about the habits, lives, and emotions of these lovable critters.
Summertime is a good time to learn and to imagine. Have you ever wanted a dog? How about one that does good deeds? Have you ever wondered what would happen if a goat trip-trapped over a bridge? Want to meet a Cuban solenodon? How about a gaur? Find out about these and ordinary rodents that live all around. And imagine about what stuffed animals are like when they come to life. You’ll find these and more in the books suggested here.
The Moon has inspired mankind since time began. It has been the subject of literature and folktales, movies, and great study. In the 20th century, the race to space was punctuated with man’s first walk on the Moon on July 20, 1969. Read about the history of space study, exploration of the Moon (both actual and vicarious), and some of the other books inspired by the great globe of light in the sky — Earth’s Moon.
April is a month of celebrations. Seeds, bunnies, and birds are on the move. Read about a bird that makes its new home in an unusual place and about animals as they splash in and around ponds and the farm. Join a fancy féte or two. And since April is also National Poetry Month, look for a favorite poem to read together from one of these collections. Whether you pick a poem or a poetically told tale, make the month special by sharing a book or two with someone.
Social awareness is the ability to empathize, understand, and engage with people from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives. These books explore characters and stories about opening up your heart and mind to our diverse world. This booklist is part of our Social-Emotional Learning series.
It’s that time of year again! When the days start getting shorter and as temperatures cool down, that could only mean that it’s time for school to start again. There’s a lot to be excited about — new friends, old friends, learning interesting things. But school can be kind of scary, too. Find out if a girl’s buffalo is ready for school or how saber-toting pirates enjoy school. Practice a fire drill, ride a school bus, and more — all in the books suggested here, just in time for the new school year!
There are lots of things to explore, wonder about, and discover on a hot summer afternoon, all from the comfort of your coolest reading nook. Visit an alien landscape, meet a T-rex named Rufus, or count how many different kinds of fruits and vegetables you can find. You can become an armchair adventurer or ninja with a pirate pig or a bunny, even meet a poet named Caleb. These and more wait between the pages of books!
It’s summertime and a great time to get crafty — with arts and crafts, that is! Crafts come in all shapes and sizes, from simple to complex. Some require paper and markers, and others just a natural enthusiasm for theatrical reading. With a little bit of imagination and a few easy-to-find supplies, you and your child can create pop-up cards, food from around the world and lots more. A great way to while away the longer days of summer. Take a look at any of these books to get you started!
What is it like to grow up with autism? Some of the books here are written by young people and adults who share their lives and how neurodiversity has shaped them. The list also includes a picture book biography of Temple Grandin and her own co-authored autobiography — both describe her inspiring life story.
Fall is here! With it comes cooler days, longer nights, and lots of things to appreciate. Pumpkins that transform into jack-o-lanterns, acorns that grow into homes for birds and small animals, a time to reflect, and evenings just right to share tantalizing tales—some spooky, others just plain fun. So grab a book on a cool autumn night to start the celebration!
Change is in the air. Days are getting shorter; schools are opening and there are new starts everywhere. Some kids can’t wait to start school, others have the heebie-jeebies; some take unusual critters or even a parent to school. Regardless, you’re sure to enjoy these books beyond the first days of school!
Being brave is hard. But it’s also empowering! The imaginative, encouraging, and sometimes humorous stories in this book list can help young children learn to acknowledge and conquer their fears. These books are great for reading together and talking about.
Friends fill a special place in a child’s life. Fun, secrets, happiness, and sorrows are all better when shared with a buddy, teammate, or pal. Share these recommended books with kids ages 0-9 and together celebrate the way friends know how to stay close, no matter what.
