Educating+Peers

In creating inclusive classrooms, we feel that it is also important to educate the students/families within our class about exceptionalities. Students develop a stronger sense of empathy, understanding, and respect for their peers when they are taught about difference amongst us all. We feel that there is a lot of great literature available to help explain autism to other children. "Educating Peers" is an outline of our favourite children's books about autism. =Children's Books=

Tourville, A. (2010). //My friend has autism//. Mankato, MN: Picture Window Books.

This book is about friendship, acceptance and understanding. It talks about the challenges and rewards of having a friend with Autism. It displays everyday, relatable situations with child friendly facts through out the book.

Elder, J. (2006). //Different Like Me: My Book of Autism Heroes.// London: Jessica Kingsley.

This is a wonderful book that introduces children to inspirational famous and historical figures from the worlds of science, art, math, literature, philosophy and comedy, who had common autistic traits.



Simmons, K. (2002). //Little Rainman.// Edmonton, Alberta: Future Horizons.

This book is about a boy named Jonathan who, with his mother, describes his autistic world. It is written from the perspecitve of Jonathan and the script is written in child's print. It is recommended by Temple Grandin who says the story captures "how a child with autism (really) thinks". Little Rainman tells the reader what it's like to be autistic.

Amenta III, C. (2011). //Russell's world: A story for kids about autism.// New York: Magination Press.

This book gives you an inside look to what life is like for Russell (a young boy with Autism) and his family. The illustrations are both real pictures of Russell and his family and friends and drawings. There is also a parent section in the back with additional information and helpful tips.



Rustad, M. (2008). //Some Kids Have Autism.// Mankata, MN: Capstone Press.

This book helps young children understand differences and provides useful information on autism spectrum disorder.



Sabin, E. (2006). //The autism acceptance book: Being a friend to someone with autism.// New York: Watering Can Press.

This interactive activity book and educational tool is great for teaching children about Autism and how to accept and understand differences and treat everyone with respect. It includes how and why to accept others, what Autism is, understand what makes them different, how to be a good friend, and group activities for the classroom. At the back there are some great websites for additional information.

Edwards, A. (2001). //Taking autism to school.// Valley Park, MO: JayJo Books, LLC.

This book is a great way to introduce Autism and differences in your classroom. It deals with daily situations that children can relate to and understand. There is a short quiz at the back to help reinforce the ideas presented in the book. This book is great for teahers as it includes tips and additional resources.