Books are a great way to raise awareness and increase our understanding of difference. Here we have collected a selection of kids books that celebrate neurodiversity, and the wonder and talents of neurodivergent children.
What is neurodiversity?
Neurodivergent children see and interact with the world in unique and special ways.
Neurodiversity is a concept that includes a range of diagnoses and whilst there is no fixed established definition it is generally accepted to include ADHD, autism, dyslexia, dyspraxia, Down syndrome and other forms of different cognitive processing.
Whilst neurodiversity does bring challenges, it also brings opportunities. When neurodiversity is embraced, we can look beyond the difficulties, be open to different methods of learning and see the creative potential of thinking differently.
Books help develop empathy and acceptance to understand one another
Written and illustrated by debut author Greg Stobbs, Cloud Boy is a soul-stirring beaut of a book that will chime with little ones who struggle to find their feet in a world that all-too often overlooks imaginative magic, and thinking differently. It is radiant with empathy, the story sees Bobby’s loved ones learn that they need to “see what it’s like to be him”, rather than him always having to try to be like them. Perfectly-pitched, Cloud Boy shows how the world is a far more magical place when we take the time to truly understand one another. Given a Star by our reviewer, Joanne Owen, Cloud Boy was February's Debut of the Month.
Having twice had stories selected for Empathy Day collections, Helen Rutter is becoming known for her capacity to make the reader see the world through another pair of eyes and to walk in the shoes of individuals in challenging circumstances. Her latest novel, Reggie Houser has the Power is a really perceptive and moving exploration of what ADHD is like, what it feels like to not fit in and the dangerous power of peer pressure. Readers will find much to relate to and enjoy in this heartwarming and hilarious story.
It's essential that neurodiverse kids see themselves reflected in the books they read
Elle McNicoll's novels are peppered with proud statements of self-affirmation that will serve as great pep-talks for neurodiverse readers. Her phenomenal debut novel, A Kind of Spark, is a big hearted story of courage and integrity as 11 year old Addie campaigns for a memorial to the 16th century women tried as witches in her Scottish hometown. Featuring a feisty autistic heroine, it was crucial and fresh, and was shortlisted for a raft of awards winning both the Blue Peter Book Award and the Waterstones Children’s Book Prize. As a neurodivergent writer, Elle is passionate about disability rights and representation, and has explored and celebrated autism, dyspraxia and adhd through her writing, providing positive inspiration for her readers.
In another debut, and created in conjunction with the Royal Ballet and Opera, Rachel Fuller’s Bee celebrates difference and the freeing magic that comes from following your own path, rather than trying to fit in. In addition to discovering the joy of embracing their own differences, Bee finds others who understand them, and makes new friends who are also wonderfully different. As such, Bee will spark valuable conversations around empathy and inclusion, with the author’s original soundtrack — from its uplifting theme, to pieces evoking the playground and Bee’s new adventures — further enhancing its immersive, interactive vibe.
Neurodiversity Celebration Week
Neurodiversity Celebration Week is a worldwide initiative that challenges stereotypes and misconceptions about neurological differences. It aims to transform how neurodivergent individuals are perceived and supported by providing schools, universities, organisations, and others around the world with the opportunity to recognise the many skills and talents of neurodivergent individuals, while creating more inclusive and equitable cultures that celebrate differences and empower every individual.
Neurodiversity Celebration Week runs from 17 to 23 March 2025. For resources visit neurodiversityweek.com
The books in this collection reflect neurodiversity, challenge stereotypes, help break down stigma and embrace difference.
And further reading in our collections;
40 Children's Books about Autism or featuring an Autistic Character
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