Summer Reading List for Kids with Autism

If you are anything like us, you are halfway through Summer and quickly running out of ways to keep your kiddo occupied. Luckily, Summer is a great time to encourage reading, and finding the right books can make a big difference for children with autism. Here’s a curated list of books that are engaging, beneficial, and enjoyable for kids on the spectrum.

1. “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time” by Mark Haddon

  • Age Range: 12+
  • Summary: This mystery novel is told from the perspective of a 15-year-old boy with autism. It’s a great way for older children to see the world from a viewpoint they may relate to.

2. “All My Stripes: A Story for Children with Autism” by Shaina Rudolph and Danielle Royer

  • Age Range: 4-8
  • Summary: This book tells the story of Zane the zebra, who feels different from his peers. It helps children understand and celebrate their unique qualities.

3. “El Deafo” by Cece Bell

  • Age Range: 8-12
  • Summary: A graphic novel that shares the author’s experiences growing up deaf. While not specifically about autism, it promotes understanding and empathy for children with differences.reading

4. “My Brother Charlie” by Holly Robinson Peete and Ryan Elizabeth Peete

  • Age Range: 4-8
  • Summary: Written by a mother and her daughter, this book shares the story of a young girl and her twin brother who has autism, highlighting the challenges and joys of their relationship.

5. “Rules” by Cynthia Lord

  • Age Range: 8-12
  • Summary: This novel follows a 12-year-old girl who creates rules for her autistic brother. It’s a heartfelt story about family, acceptance, and understanding.

6. “The Reason I Jump: The Inner Voice of a Thirteen-Year-Old Boy with Autism” by Naoki Higashida

  • Age Range: 12+
  • Summary: Written by a 13-year-old boy with autism, this book provides a unique and insightful perspective on the condition, answering questions about what it’s like to live with autism.

7. “I See Things Differently: A First Look at Autism” by Pat Thomas

  • Age Range: 4-8
  • Summary: This book is a gentle introduction to autism, explaining it in a way that young children can understand and relate to.

8. “Inside Asperger’s Looking Out” by Kathy Hoopmann

  • Age Range: 7-12
  • Summary: A picture book that uses engaging photographs and simple text to explain Asperger’s Syndrome in a positive and understandable way.

9. “The Survival Guide for Kids with Autism Spectrum Disorders (And Their Parents)” by Elizabeth Verdick and Elizabeth Reeve

  • Age Range: 8-12
  • Summary: A practical guide that offers tips, tools, and strategies for children with autism to navigate everyday challenges.

10. “Andy and His Yellow Frisbee” by Mary Thompson

  • Age Range: 4-8
  • Summary: This story revolves around a young boy with autism who loves playing with his yellow frisbee. It helps children understand the behavior of their autistic peers.

Tips for Encouraging Summer Reading:

  • Create a Reading Routine: Set aside a specific time each day for reading to build a consistent habit.
  • Incorporate Interests: Choose books that align with your child’s interests to keep them engaged.
  • Use Visuals: For children who are visual learners, consider picture books or graphic novels.
  • Read Together: Spend time reading with your child to support their comprehension and enjoyment.
  • Discuss the Books: Talk about the stories and characters to help your child process and relate to the material.

These books not only provide enjoyable reading experiences but also offer valuable insights and understanding for children with autism. Happy reading!

We have been a family blessed with the help of the team at The Helm. Our son was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder when he was 2.5 and The Helm was one of the places recommended by our developmental psychologist. I am a physician and still found it hard navigating this new medical problem and knowing what to do next. I called many places and from step one Lee Ann was the most helpful explaining the process with paperwork, assessment, available services, insurance, etc. we were able to start therapy quite soon after diagnosis and had sessions at home daily for 3 hours. The quality of staff, the system they have in place for the therapists, the coordination by the BCBA supervising therapist and early response put us at ease that we were on the right path. Ultimately the steady positive changes we saw with our son overcame any fears we had about autism holding our son back for the rest of his life.

We used many forms of intervention that we felt were individually tailored for our family – for potty training, anger management, dietary intervention and even let them know when we could not maintain something suggested in family training, and they would just take our request and implement another plan. Our son has now graduated/transitioned out of therapy and is currently in pre-K in a regular classroom with him on par with his class in academics, has friends and no behavior issues. Most important of all we have a happy son who loves to play with his big sister.

I know that I will always read all there is on autism and watch my son for any features. But I hope my review adds to positive aspects that I wish someone would have told me when I started the journey – start early, don’t put off your suspicions, get your child evaluated now! The label does not hinder,  in fact it falls to the side once you have the diagnosis to facilitate therapy. ABA intervention, especially done with the right people, makes a big difference. It does not pressure or upset the child at all, and you are not stuck in therapy for life! I know if any behavioral issues come up in the future I have The Helm, and they will help us and the outcome is going to be positive. Said with heartfelt thanks.

– Former Helm ABA Family

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