When a book might help: disability and neurodiversity
When a book might help
Disability and neurodiversity
Disability of any sort can be difficult to cope with, whether it is your own, a friend or someone in your family. Sharing stories about other people’s experiences of disability can make things seem less overwhelming and easier to handle.
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A friend for Henry by Jenn Bailey
Follow Henry’s school day as he tries to find a friend who enjoys the same things as him. | Ages: 3+ | Physical Book |
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Amazing by Steve Antony
A little boy and his pet dragon are the very best of friends. They laugh, they sing, they dance, they snooze. They are both amazing – just like everyone else! A celebration of friendship and being yourself with a positive message about celebrating diversity. | Ages: 3+ | Physical Book |
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Autism by Louise Spilsbury
Explains what autism is and how it might affect people’s behaviour. | Ages: 6+ | Physical Book |
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Baby Bird by Andrew Gibbs
A baby bird can not fly due to his misshapen wing. He discovers that his dreams of flying can come true as he learns the power of friendship, never giving up and being creative. | Ages: 4+ | Physical Book |
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Big Red Balloon by Anne Fine
Pip’s class are having a balloon race – how far will their red helium balloons travel? Pip’s goes all the way to Buckingham Palace and he is invited to have tea with the queen. Pip is a wheel chair user. | Ages: 5+ | Physical Book |
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Bumposaurus by Penny McKinlay and Britta Teckentrup
Slightly quirky story of a dinosaur who keeps bumping into things. Finally it is recognized that he needs spectacles. A positive ending. | Ages: 5+ | Physical Book |
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Can I tell you about ADHD? by Susan Yarney
Meet Ben - a young boy with ADHD. Ben invites readers to learn about ADHD from his perspective. He helps children understand what it means to have ADHD and describes what it is and how it feels. Ben explains how he was diagnosed and what he has learnt about ways to relieve his ADHD symptoms, and how friends and adults can help at home and school. This illustrated book is full of useful information and will be an ideal introduction for young people, aged 7 upwards, as well as parents, friends, teachers and professionals working with children with ADHD. It is also an excellent starting point for family and classroom discussions. | Ages: 7+ | Physical Book |
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Check Mates by Stewart Foster
Felix is struggling at school. His ADHD makes it hard for him to concentrate and his grades are slipping. Everyone keeps telling him to try harder, but no one seems to understand just how hard he finds it. When Mum suggests Felix spends time with his grandfather, Felix can’t think of anything worse. Granddad hasn’t been the same since Grandma died. Plus, he’s always trying to teach Felix boring chess. But sometimes the best lessons come in the most unexpected of places, and Granddad soon shows Felix that there’s everything to play for. | Ages: 9+ | Physical Book |
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Dachy's Deaf by Jack Hughes
Dachy wears a hearing aid but sometimes, when he wants a bit of peace and quiet, he turns it off. | Ages: 4+ | Physical Book |
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Don't Call Me Special by Pat Thomas and Lesley Harker
This information book explains what disability is in a simple and reassuring way. | Ages: 4+ | Physical Book |
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Echo Come Home by Megan Rix
Eleven-year-old Jake is dreading his new school. No one understands how hard it is for him to make friends. Then Jake meets Echo, a stray puppy, training to be a hearing dog. With Echo by his side, Jake’s confidence grows – but then Echo disappears. | Ages: 9+ | Physical Book |
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Frankie's World by Aoife Dooley
This lovely, often funny, relatable and sensitive story about Frankie, a girl with autism, was inspired by the author Aoife Dooley’s own real life experiences. Readers will be cheering Frankie on as she deals with bullies, finds what she’s good at and comes to understand herself a little better: a great story about growing up and learning who you are. | Ages: 9+ | eBook | Physical Book |
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Freddie and the Fairy by Julia Donaldson and Karen George
When Freddie rescues Bessie-Belle the fairy, she offers to grant his wishes. Unfortunately, she doesn’t hear very well and he tends to mumble and things get a bit muddled. Fortunately the Fairy Queen is on hand to explain things. | Ages: 4+ | Physical Book |
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Having a Disability by Louise Spilsbury
How do you help a young child deal with disability or explain what that means? This hands on picture book is designed to help children with their questions and feelings about tricky topics that can be hard to talk about. The exquisite and approachable illustrations to give a comforting story book feel. A perfect aid to help children open up and explore how they feel and steps they can take to help them cope. | Ages: 7+ | Physical Book |
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How to catch a witch by Abie Longstaff
Charlie and her family have moved from the big city to a small country village, and everything feels wrong. Their cottage is old and creepy. Anxiety about her new school is causing Charlie’s stutter to return. And the villagers are just plain weird. Not least,Agatha, who may not have a broomstick or a cauldron, but is definitely a witch. | Ages: 9+ | Audiobook | eBook | Physical Book |
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How to Fly with Broken Wings by Jane Elson
Willem has Aspergers Syndrome and two main aims in life: to fly and to make at least two friends of his own age. Willem and Sasha form an unlikely friendship. Because they share a secret. Sasha longs to fly too. This is a charming tale about overcoming obstacles and finding friendship in unlikely places. | Ages: 11+ | Physical Book |
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How to Look for a Lost Dog by Ann M Martin
11-year-old Rose is autistic and obsessed with homonyms. Her father gives her a stray dog, which she names Rain (Reign, Rein). The dog becomes her best friend – her anchor in a confusing world. When Rain goes missing during a storm, Rose refuses to stop looking for her. | Ages: 9+ | Physical Book |
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I Can Hear! by Louise John and Andy Elkerton
A boy with impaired hearing lists all the things he can hear with his hearing aid. | Ages: 5+ | Physical Book |
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I Talk Like a River by Jordan Scott
After a day of being unable to speak when asked, and of being stared at, a boy and his father go to the river for some quiet time. 'It's just a bad speech day,' says Dad. But the boy can't stop thinking about all the eyes watching his lips twisting and twirling. When his father points to the river bubbling, churning, whirling and crashing, the boy finds a way to think about how he speaks. Even the river stutters. Like him. 'I talk like a river,' he says. | Ages: 0+ | Physical Book |
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I Like My Dad by Sue Graves
Part of the Reading Champion series, this shows a dad in a wheelchair. | Ages: 4+ | Physical Book |
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Isaac and his Amazing Asperger Superpowers! by Melanie Walsh
Meet Isaac. He’s a superhero! He might look like everyone else, but he has a kind of autism called Asperger’s. Inside this book he’ll tell you all about what it’s like to have his Asperger superpowers. | Ages: 3+ | Physical Book |
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Max the Champion by Sean Stockdale, Alexandra Strick and Ros Asquith
Max is mad about sport and thinks about it all the time. This inclusive picture book shows people with disability as part of the everyday environment. The clues are often subtle, but that’s probably why it works so well. | Ages: 5+ | Physical Book |
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Me and Mister P by Maria Farrer
Arthur just wants a normal brother. When a polar bear arrives to stay he helps Arthur to enjoy Liam’s company rather than always seeing the negative side of his brother’s behaviour. Great for any football fans. Age 8+
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Mia's Magic Uncle by Lindsay MacLeod
Mia’s Uncle Robbie is amazing – he knows lots of magic tricks, like how to produce an egg from Mia’s ear, or how to turn a red hanky into a green one. One kind of magic he hasn’t yet learnt, however, is how to make his legs work. But this doesn’t stop him from being the best uncle Mia could wish for! | Ages: 5+ | Physical Book |
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My Makaton book of numbers by Tom Pollard
An illustrated children's book of popular nursery rhymes. Each rhyme is enhanced with Makaton signs, which encourage the development of essential communication skills. | Ages: 0+ | Physical Book |
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Paws by Kate Foster
Alex's best friend is Kevin the cockapoo, although what he wants most of all is a friend at school. Everything is changing for 11-year-old Alex and, as an autistic person, change can be terrifying. With the first day of high school only a couple of months away, Alex is sure that having a friend by his side will help. So, he's devised a plan - impress the kids at school by winning a trophy at the PAWS Dog Show with his trusty sidekick, Kevin. This should be a walk in the park, right? 7+
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Proud to be deaf by Ava, Lilli and Nick Beese
Ava is like any other 7-year-old. She likes to talk and laugh with her friends, is obsessed with dogs and loves being active. Ava is also deaf – and she’s proud of it. She loves her Deaf community, that she’s bilingual, and that she experiences the world differently from hearing people. In this book, Ava welcomes her hearing peers to her daily life, the way technology helps her navigate the world and explains common misconceptions about deaf people – and introduces some of her deaf heroes who have achieved amazing things. | Ages: 6+ | Physical Book |
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Quiet by Kate Alizadeh
Ssh! Listen. What’s that noise? What can we hear when we’re really, really quiet? A toddler enjoys the range of sounds they hear as their busy day comes to an end, from the bustle and chat of dinner time, to the quiet hush of their father’s voice at bedtime. The text and sensory clues to be found in this enchanting, inclusive picture book allow us to experience our home through its many noises. | Ages: 0+ |
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Runaway Robot by Frank Cottrell-Boyce
Set in the near future, Alfie is coming to terms with losing his hand in an accident. A fantastic story which covers loss, disability and much more. | Ages: 9+ | Audiobook | eAudiobook | Physical Book |
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Scarlet Ibis by Gill Lewis
After a fire in their flat caused by their mother smoking, Scarlet and her autistic brother are sent to different foster homes. This is the story of Scarlet fighting to keep her family together. | Ages: 10+ | Audiobook | Physical Book |
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Sleepovers by Jacqueline Wilson
Daisy desperately wants to fit in with a group of girls at school and go to their sleepovers, but she is dreading it being her turn. Her sister has learning difficulties and Daisy doesn’t know how her new friends will react. | Ages: 7+ | Audiobook | eAudiobook | eBook | Physical Book |
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Specs for T-Rex by Jenny Jinks
T-Rex has big feet, small arms and cannot see well. Maybe a trip to Croc will help? This 'Maverick Early Readers' title features colourful illustrations and clear text, and has been book banded by the Institute of Education. | Ages: 5+ | Physical Book |
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Specs for Rex by Yasmeen Ismail
Rex has new glasses and he hates them! He does not want to wear them to school, and he tries to hide them - in the strangest places! But it's pretty tricky hiding specs that are so big, and round and red. It's funny how things turn out, though, because Rex's specs end up winning him a gold star, and a new friend. Even better, he can see properly. | Ages: 0+ | Physical Book |
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Steggie's stammer by Jack Hughes
Steggie has a stammer and sometimes it takes her a bit longer than others to get her words out. Her friends are in a hurry to play a game and rush off without listening to her. Before long, the friends get into trouble and it’s up to Steggie to rescue them. But will they listen to her advice? | Ages: 4+ | Physical Book |
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Susan Laughs by Jeanne Willis and Tony Ross
A delightful picture book in which Susan is up to all sorts of things at home and in the park. It isn’t till the last page that we see that she uses a wheelchair. | Ages: 4+ | Physical Book |
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The Black Book of Colours by Menena Cottin and Rosana Faria
Thomas can’t see colours, but he can hear them, touch them, smell and taste them. Includes raised line drawings and Braille letters. | Ages: 4+ | Physical Book |
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The Illustrated Guide to Dyslexia and its Amazing People by Kate Power
An engaging visual explanation of dyslexia, what it means, and how to embrace it. Vibrant images and simple text depict what dyslexia is, along with helpful tools for learning and examples of skills and professions best-suited for people with dyslexia. The authors also include tips for success, additional games and learning resources. | Ages: 7+ | Physical Book |
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The map challenge: a book about dyslexia by Dr Tracy Packiam Alloway
Sammy finds map-reading tricky. But when his group loses their map during a flag hunt at scout camp, it’s up to Sammy to use his SEN superpowers and find another way to lead them back to the campsite! The ‘SEN Superpowers’ series celebrates the positive traits associated with common Special Educational Needs (SEN). This story will help children understand and cope with dyslexia. | Ages: 4+ | Physical Book |
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The T-Rex who lost his specs! by Jeanne Willis
Trouble for T-Rex when he gets everything wrong having lost his glasses. Rhyming text with some very funny antics. | Ages: 3+ | Physical Book |
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The Visible Sounds by Yin Jianling and Yu Rong
Based on the true story of Chinese dancer Lihua Tai, 'The Visible Sounds' tells the uplifting tale of a young child dealing with the frustration and solitude of hearing loss. Alone in silence, the child's life is changed forever when a chance touch unlocks a vibrant new world, now blazing with rainbows of visible sounds. 'The Visible Sounds' brings a message of hope and joy to children living with a disability and is an inspirational reminder that dreams can become reality. | Ages: 0+ | Physical Book |
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The Five of Us by Quentin Blake
Five children with unusual abilities take a trip to the countryside. When disaster strikes they all use their individual powers to help save the day. | Ages: 4+ | Physical Book |
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Through the eyes of us by Jon Roberts
‘Through the Eyes of Us’ is a beautiful, colourful picture book for children which gives insight into the world of children with autism following the experiences of Kya, who has severe autism. | Ages: 4+ | Physical Book |
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Tomas Loves... by Jude Welton
Meet Tomas, a little boy who loves trains and hates change. This book encourages children to recognise what they have in common with him as well as what makes him different. | Ages: 2+ | Physical Book |
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We All Have Different Abilities by Melissa Higgins
Celebrating a range of abilities and talents. | Ages: 4+ | Physical Book |
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What Happened to You? by James Catchpole
Imagine you were asked the same question again and again throughout your life. Imagine if it was a question that didn't bring about the happiest of memories. This is the experience of one-legged Joe, a child who just wants to have fun in the playground. Constantly seen first for his disability, Joe is fed up of only ever being asked about his leg. All he wants to do is play Pirates. But as usual, one after the other, all the children ask him the same question they always ask, 'What happened to you?" | Ages: 0+ | eBook | Physical Book |
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What the Jackdaw Saw by Julia Donaldson and Nick Sharratt
The animals try to warn jackdaw that he is flying into danger, but he can’t understand the signs they are using. This story about friendship and sign language was written by Julia Donaldson with a group of deaf children in a workshop run by The Life and Deaf Association. | Ages: 3+ | Physical Book |
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M is for Autism by The Students of Limpsfield Grange School and Martin and Vicky Martin
M. That’s what I’d like you to call me please. I’ll tell you why later. Welcome to M’s world. It’s tipsy-turvy, sweet and sour, and the beast of anxiety lurks outside classrooms ready to pounce. M just wants to be like other teenagers her age who always know what to say and what to do. So why does it feel like she lives on a different plane of existence to everyone else? Written by the students of Limpsfield Grange, a school for girls with Autism Spectrum Disorder with communication and interaction difficulties, M is for Autism draws on real life experiences to create a heartfelt and humorous novel that captures the highs and lows of being different in a world of normal. | Ages: 9+ | Physical Book |
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Max and the Millions by Ross Montgomery
Max is used to spending time alone – it’s difficult to make friends in a big, chaotic school when you’re deaf. He prefers to give his attention to the little things in life – like making awesome, detailed replica models. Then Mr Darrow, the school caretaker and fellow modeller, goes missing. Max must follow his parting instruction: ‘Go to my room. You’ll know what to do’. On the floor he finds a pile of sand – and in the sand is Mr Darrow’s latest creation – a tiny boy, no bigger than a raisin, Luke, Prince of the Blues. And behind the tiny boy – millions of others – a thriving, bustling, sprawling civilisation! | Ages: 9+ | Physical Book |
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A First Guide to Baby Signing by Katie Mayne
Babies understand much before they can talk. Reading books together and using sign language encourages early word play. Sign language provides a way for babies to communicate. | Ages: 0+ | Physical Book |
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Learn to sign with Olli: the fun way to learn sign language by Gerry Slack
Signing has become mainstream it is used within schools and by speaking parents to communicate with babies and young children. Many schools teach signing as part of their curriculum and are seeking new, accessible material. Learn to Sign with Olli offers all children and parents a fun way to learn sign language through four complete stories. Aimed at all children and their parents not just the hearing impaired First in a series. | Ages: 0+ | Physical Book |
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Ali and Annie's guide to... coping with illness and disability by Jilly Hunt
Are you trying to cope with a long-term illness or a disability? Maybe a family member or friend of yours is sick and you want to understand more about his or her situation. This useful book gives lots of information about how to cope with a long-term illness or disability. Characters Ali and Annie will guide you through the issues and give you advice and 'top tips', while Charlie the dog shows that he understands how you might feel. | Ages: 0+ | Physical Book |
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Ava's spectacular spectacles by Peter Whitfield
Ava hates her glasses, and sometimes chooses not to wear them, even when wearing them would help her to read. Ava's teacher sympathises - but rather than tell her to put them on, she opens a book of fairy tales. One by one, Mrs Cook suggests that all the main characters in her favourite stories could have avoided their troubles by wearing their glasses. By the end, Ava is adding to the stories and seeing her own life more clearly. | Ages: 0+ | Physical Book |
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Can bears ski? by Raymond Antrobus
This delightful picture book tracks a father-and-son journey into the discovery and management of deafness. Boy Bear can't hear Dad Bear coming to wake him up in the morning, but he can feel the floor vibrate with his heavy footsteps. He can only grasp little bits of what his teacher says to him at school. He can't catch what his friends are laughing at. With the support of Dad Bear, Boy Bear visits an audiologist and, eventually, he gets hearing aids. Suddenly, he understands the question everyone has been asking him. Raymond draws on his own experience to show how isolating it can be for a deaf child in a hearing world. But through his lyrical and moving words, matched with Polly's stunning imagery, he also shows how many ways there are to communicate love. With a solid network, Boy Bear will find his place in the world | Ages: 3+ | Physical Book |
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Cyborg Cat and the Masked Marauder by Ade Adepitan
Cat-like reflexes, cyborg superpowers ... you've never met a superhero who rolls like this! After an eventful trip to the Creepy Crawly House at the safari park on a school trip, Ade and the Parsons Road Gang are feeling good - even if Ade's legs are getting weaker and he needs the wheelchair more, it's okay because he's learned some cool moves with his wheels. He's been invited to join Salim's wheelchair basketball team and life feels good. There's only one problem - to be on the team he needs a sports wheelchair. And that costs a lot of money. So Ade and his friends set about fundraising. It's all going well until someone starts to disrupt the events, and some of the money goes missing too. Who is the Masked Marauder who's determined to stop Ade from getting his wheels? Ade's superhero alter ego Cyborg Cat is going to need all his wits about him to tackle an unexpected enemy. His superpowers and special skills are up against the biggest test yet... | Ages: 9+ | eAudiobook | eBook | Physical Book |
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Cyborg Cat and the night spider by Ade Adepitan
The second title in the series from Ade Adepitan, following his struggle to fit into the school system with his disability and his deepening friendship with the Parsons Road Gang. | Ages: 9+ | Audiobook | eAudiobook | eBook | Physical Book |
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I am not a label by Cerrie Burnell
In this stylishly illustrated biography anthology, meet 34 artists, thinkers, athletes, and activists with disabilities, from past and present. From Frida Kahlo to Stephen Hawking, find out how these iconic figures have overcome obstacles, owned their differences and paved the way for others by making their bodies and minds work for them. These short biographies tell the stories of people who have faced unique challenges which have not stopped them from becoming trailblazers, innovators, advocates, and makers. | Ages: 7+ | eAudiobook | Physical Book |
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Just Ask! by Sonia Sotomayor
Feeling different, especially as a kid, can be tough. But in the same way that different types of plants and flowers make a garden more beautiful and enjoyable, different types of people make our world more vibrant and wonderful. In 'Just Ask!', United States Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor celebrates the different abilities kids (and people of all ages) have. Using her own experience as a child who was diagnosed with diabetes, Justice Sotomayor writes about children with all sorts of challenges - and looks at the special powers those kids have as well. | Ages: 5+ | eAudiobook | Physical Book |
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María and me: a father, a daughter (and autism) by María Gallardo and Miguel Gallardo
A father's first-hand account of what life is like with his daughter María who has autism. On a trip to the Canary Islands in Spain, some challenges arise as a result. This book shows how the two work around these issues, and gives insight into how María sees and experiences the world. | Ages: 5+ | Physical Book |
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Me and my sister by Rose Robbins
This appealing brother and sister duo spend a lot of their day together, eating meals, going to school and playing. But life with an autistic sibling is not always easy. Through the eyes of the brother, we find out how they are both very different, but also very similar in other ways, and come what may they have lots of fun together and love each other just the same. This is a touching book that will strike a chord with every family with siblings, especially where one is differently abled. | Ages: 0+ | Physical Book |
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Pablo picks his shoes by Rosie King
Pablo thinks differently, he has autism and uses his creativity to understand the world around him. Pablo draws the Book Animals, and together they help each other face the world with confidence. Pablo and the Book Animals worry that Pablo's shoes will feel left out if they don't come on a trip to Granny's house. What clever solution will Pablo and his resourceful friends think of this time? | Ages: 0+ | Physical Book |
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Rise of the Parsons Road Gang by Ade Adepitan
When Ade moves to London from Nigeria, he knows things will be different, but nothing can prepare him for the ups and downs of his Parson's Road adventures. Ade doesn't always feel welcome in his new community; fitting in is hard, especially as he looks different to everyone else. But Ade is brave and takes on the school bullies, surprising himself and the kids on his new street. His heroic acts and super football skills quickly help him make new friends who will always be there for him. | Ages: 9+ | eBook | Physical Book |
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Roll with it by Jamie Sumner
This big-hearted middle grade debut tells the story of an irrepressible girl with cerebral palsy whose life takes an unexpected turn when she moves to a new town. Ellie's a girl who tells it like it is. That surprises some people, who see a kid in a wheelchair and think she's going to be all sunshine and cuddles. The thing is, Ellie has big dreams: She might be eating Stouffer's for dinner, but one day she's going to be a professional baker. If she's not writing fan letters to her favourite celebrity chefs, she's practising recipes on her well-meaning, if overworked, mother. | Ages: 9+ | eAudiobook | Physical Book |
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Seal Surfer by Michael Foreman
This enchanting story, illustrated throughout in watercolours, tells the story of a disabled boy who gets into trouble in the rough seas and is saved by a baby seal. Their friendship brings happiness and meaning to the boy's life. | Ages: 5+ | Physical Book |
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The amazing Edie Eckhart by Rosie Jones
Do you like chicken?' Oscar asked me. I nodded. 'Then take a wing'. Oscar offered me his arm and we linked each other into the school hall. Edie has cerebral palsy, but she's used to it because she's spent her whole life being a bit wobbly. She can't wait to start secondary school with her best friend Oscar and share sausage rolls with him at breaktime. But when Oscar scuppers these plans by getting his first ever girlfriend, GROSS, Edie eventually decides to stop feeling sorry for herself and find a boyfriend, so she can prove to Oscar she's grown up too. | Ages: 9+ | Physical Book |
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The amazing edie eckhart: the big trip by Rosie Jones
Edie Eckhart is getting used to life at secondary school. It's going well so far - she's bagged her first ever girlfriend, a new friendship group and she has the best form tutor EVER. But then the school organises a camping trip complete with muddy walks and team games. It is a DISASTER. The only fun bit is sitting by the fire and telling stories. On top of that Edie is trying to figure out where she fits in: can you be a girlfriend AND someone's friend, a writer AND a performer, or do you have to choose between the two? Luckily Edie decides to take back control of the school trip and in so doing, she discovers that you never have to define yourself. You are AMAZING just the way you are! | Ages: 9+ | Physical Book |
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The Boy with the Butterfly mind by Victoria Williamson
Jamie Lee just wants to be normal but his ADHD isn't making it easy. If only he could control his butterfly mind then he'd have friends, be able to keep out of trouble, live with his mum and not be sent to stay with his dad. Elin Watts just wants to be perfect. If she could be the best student and daughter possible, then maybe her dad would leave his new family and come back to Glasgow to live with Elin and her mum, happily ever after. When Jamie and Elin's families blend, the polar opposites of chaotic Jamie and ordered Elin collide. As their lives spiral out of control, Jamie and Elin discover that they're actually more alike than they'd admit. Maybe there's no such thing as normal, or perfect. And perhaps, just like families, happy-ever-afters come in all shapes and sizes. | Ages: 10+ | eBook | Physical Book |
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The Goldfish Boy by Lisa Thompson
12-year-old Matthew is trapped in his bedroom by crippling OCD, spending most of his time staring out of his window as the inhabitants of Chestnut Close go about their business. Until the day he is the last person to see his next door neighbour's toddler, Teddy, before he goes missing. Matthew must turn detective and unravel the mystery of Teddy's disappearance - with the help of a brilliant cast of supporting characters. | Ages: 9+ | eBook | Physical Book |
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We're all wonders by RJ Palacio
I know I can't change the way I look. But maybe, just maybe, people can change the way they see. 'Wonder' is the unforgettable story of August Pullman, an ordinary boy with an extraordinary face. With over 5 million copies sold, 'Wonder' is a true modern classic, a life-changing read, and has inspired kindness and acceptance in countless readers. Now younger readers can discover the Wonder message with this gorgeous picture book, starring Auggie and his dog Daisy on an original adventure, written and illustrated by R.J. Palacio. With spare, powerful text and richly-imagined illustrations, 'We're All Wonders' shows readers what it's like to live in Auggie's world - a world in which he feels like any other kid, but he's not always seen that way. | Ages: 3+ | eAudiobook | eBook | Physical Book |
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Song for a whale by Lynne Kelly
Iris was born deaf, but she's never let that define her; after all, it's the only life she's ever known. And until recently she wasn't even very lonely, because her grandparents are both deaf, too. But Grandpa has just died and Grandma's not the same without him. The only place Iris really feels at home anymore is in her electronics workshop where she loves taking apart antique radios. Then, during a science lesson about sound waves, Iris finds out about a whale who is unable to communicate with other whales. The lonely whale awakens something in Iris. She's determined to show him that someone in the world knows he's there. | Ages: 9+ | eBook | Physical Book |
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The boy who made everyone laugh by Helen Rutter
Billy is an eleven-year-old boy with a big dream. He wants to be a stand-up comedian when he grows up: delivering pinpoint punch-lines and having audiences hang on his every hilarious word. A tough career for anyone, but surely impossible for Billy, who has a stammer. How will he find his voice, if his voice won't let him speak? | Ages: 9+ | eAudiobook | eBook | Physical Book |
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Wanda's words got stuck by Lucy Rowland
Wanda the witch is so shy she can't talk! No matter how hard she tries, the words simply won't come out. But when another nervous little witch called Flo joins her class, it seems that Wanda's not the only one who worries about speaking. Then disaster strikes at the magic contest. Will Wanda have the courage to shout out the magic words and save her new friend Flo? | Ages: 0+ | Physical Book |
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Listen: how Evelyn Glennie, a deaf girl, changed percussion by Shannon Stocker
This inspiring picture book tells the true story of world-famous deaf percussionist Dame Evelyn Glennie. This is a story of music, of obstacles, of strength and hard work, of all you can accomplish when you dream. As a child, Evelyn Glennie's ears began to hurt. Voices became distant whispers. Ringing phones sounded like muffled crunches in her ears. But when she was told that she would need to wear hearing aids for the rest of her life, Evelyn was determined that this would never stop her from playing music. Instead of giving up on her dreams, Evelyn found new ways to listen. | Ages: 6+ | Physical Book |
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Autistic Meltdown by Charis Mather
This title includes what might trigger a meltdown, how to prevent a meltdown and how friends can support. It is a good starting point and will hopefully lead to other questions and discussions. | Ages: 6+ | Physical Book |
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Pablo and the noisy party by Andrew Brenner
Ladybird Readers' is a graded reading series of traditional tales, popular characters, modern stories, and non-fiction, written for young learners of English as a foreign or second language. Beautifully illustrated and carefully written, the series combines the best of Ladybird content with the structured language progression that will help children develop their reading, writing, speaking, listening and critical thinking skills. | Ages: 2+ | Physical Book |
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Talking is not my thing! by Rose Robbins
The autistic sister in this sibling pair is non verbal, but she finds plenty of ways to communicate and have fun with her brother. Although she can't talk, this little girl understands everything, and has plenty to say, and lots of ideas. Through body language, drawing pictures, making gestures or using flash cards, she is able to contribute to their life together. Her brother and granny are able to understand her whether she needs help or is helping them! | Ages: 3+ | Physical Book |
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See what I can do! by Jon Roberts
Jon Roberts relates the real-life experiences of children with a variety of differences through their own words in this gently-told but immensely informative picture book. | Ages: 6+ | Physical Book |
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Using a wheelchair by Robin Twiddy
We all share the same world, but do we experience it in the same way? The titles in 'A Different World' gives children the opportunity to see the world through others' eyes. Readers will understand what challenges other people face on a daily basis and be provided with the tools that will allow them to challenge their own assumptions about the world. | Ages: 8+ | Physical Book |
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A superpower like mine by Dr Ranj
Femi loves playing superheroes with her dad but she wishes she had a superpower. Her dad gets her to think about the people around her and their superpowers and then she begins to realise what hers is. Lovely inclusive text and the main character is in a wheelchair. | Ages: 3+ | Physical Book |
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Four Bad Unicorns by Rebecca Patterson
Two unicorn obsessed sisters play lots of imaginary unicorn games. When their neighbours join in the games don't go quite to plan as the children learn how to play together. One of the characters is in a wheelchair. | Ages: 3+ | Physical Book |
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Come over to my house by Eliza Hull
A cast of friendly characters invite friends over for a play – there’s fun to be had, food to eat and families to meet! | Ages: 3+ | Physical Book |
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Deafness by Robin Twiddy
We all share the same world, but do we experience it in the same way? The titles in 'A Different World' gives children the opportunity to see the world through others' eyes. Readers will understand what challenges other people face on a daily basis and be provided with the tools that will allow them to challenge their own assumptions about the world. | Ages: 7+ | Physical Book |
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How to be more hedgehog by Anne-Marie Conway
Lily has a stammer. The signal between her brain and her mouth is all messed up - and it's getting worse. When a video of her practicing her class presentation is uploaded onto YouTube - head thrust forward, eyelids fluttering, lips stretched wide - Lily's nightmare begins. Cyberbullying, kids at school whispering, even best friend Mia laughing behind her back. Lily's confidence takes a nose-dive and she can only see one way out: run away to Dad in Scotland and start all over again. But Lily quickly realises that running away isn't the answer - that her stammer will follow her wherever she goes. | Ages: 9+ | eBook | Physical Book |
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Call me lion by Camilla Chester
Leo has spent his life dreaming of performing on the West End. His love of dancing is getting him through the heatwave, but his selective mutism means he is unlikely to be able to perform in public and puts his spot in the end-of-summer dance show on the line. When chatty Richa moves in next door, Leo finds her easy to bond with. She talks enough for the both of them - at least to begin with. When he learns her secret, it's clear that she needs his support as much as he needs hers. With Richa's help, will Leo be able to follow his dreams? Or will Leo's inability to talk to Richa will cost him their friendship? | Ages: 7+ | eBook | Physical Book |
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Colour blindness by Robin Twiddy
We all share the same world, but do we experience it in the same way? The titles in 'A Different World' gives children the opportunity to see the world through others' eyes. Readers will understand what challenges other people face on a daily basis and be provided with the tools that will allow them to challenge their own assumptions about the world. | Ages: 5+ | Physical Book |
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Can you feel the noise? by Stewart Foster
Life is going well for Sophie. She's getting by at school, has some pretty awesome friends (okay, sometimes Rocco can be annoying) and their band have made it through to the semi-finals of the annual Battle of the Bands competition. But when Sophie wakes up completely deaf one morning, the life she once knew seems like a distant memory. With lessons replaced by endless hospital appointments and conversations now an exercise in lip-reading, Sophie grows quieter and quieter. Until she discovers the vibrations of sound through an old set of drums and wonders whether life on stage is actually still in reach. | Ages: 8+ | eAudiobook | eBook | Physical Book |
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All dogs have ADHD by Kathy Hoopmann
Kathy Hoopmann takes an inspiring and affectionate look at attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), using images and ideas from the canine world to explore a variety of traits that will be instantly recognisable to those who are familiar with ADHD. | Ages: 7+ | Physical Book |
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My busy brain by Pat Thomas
A First Look At' series consists of a number of reassuring picturebooks that give advice and promote interaction between children, parents, and teachers on a wide variety of personal, social and emotional issues. This book provides a simple introduction to ADHD. Its aim is to promote understanding and ongoing discussion with children who have ADHD or those who have siblings or classmates with it. It explains, in child-friendly terms, what ADHD is and what it feels like from the child's perspective. It also acknowledges the difficulties that those who do not have ADHD sometimes have in understanding those who do. | Ages: 5+ | Physical Book |
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The torch by Jon Roberts
Accompanied by Myles, her assistance dog, Lilly sets off from Granny's house to explore. First she walks through the garden, then she visits the seashore. But when she comes to the big cave at the end of the beach her acute hearing means she is scared of the loud noise when she drops her torch. And what's that creature she can hear coming towards her? | Ages: 5+ | Physical Book |
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Through the eyes of me by Jon Roberts
This is a beautiful, colourful picture book for children which gives insight into the world of a child with autism. Readers will meet 4-year-old Kya who loves to run, read, look at - and rip up - stickers. Through the book, children will learn why Kya does certain things, doesn't like some things and really loves other things. | Ages: 4+ | Physical Book |
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All cats are on the autism spectrum by Kathy Hoopmann
This updated edition provides an engaging, gentle introduction to autism. All-new cats take a playful look at the world of autism, and these fun feline friends will strike a chord with all those who are familiar with typical autistic traits, bringing to life common characteristics such as sensory sensitivities, social issues and communication difficulties. Touching, humorous and insightful, this book evokes all the joys and challenges of being on the autism spectrum, leaving the reader with a sense of the dignity, individuality and the potential of autistic people. | Ages: 7+ | Physical Book |
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Dexter! : the amazing school dog! by Lucy Plunkett
This title introduces readers to neurodiversity, through a year in the life of lovable school dog, Dexter. Scenarios like the first day of term, outdoor learning, and the school play can affect children in different ways, but Dexter has a way of naturally helping all the diverse children he meets, making them feel calm and happy. | Ages: 0+ | Physical Book |
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He's not naughty by Deborah Brownson
Fed up of everyone not understanding her friend Jake, Taryn candidly explains her understanding of autism, and why Jake's behaviour isn't naughty! This text is a quick and fun way for children aged 6-10 to learn about autism and the vibrant illustrations provide a unique visual representation of what it's like to be autistic. | Ages: 5+ | Physical Book |
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Leo and the octopus by Isabelle Marinov
The world was too bright for Leo. And too loud. 'I must be living on the wrong planet,' Leo thought. Leo struggles to make sense of the world. He doesn't understand the other children in his class, and they don't seem to understand him. But then one day, Leo meets Maya. Maya is an octopus, and the more Leo learns about her, the more he thinks that perhaps he isn't alone in this world, after all. | Ages: 5+ | Physical Book |
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The space we're in by Katya Balen
We are her world and her universe and her space and her sky and her galaxy and her cosmos too. Frank is ten. He likes cottage pie and football and cracking codes. Max is five. He only eats Quavers and some colours are too bright for him and if he has to wear a new T-shirt he melts down down down. Sometimes Frank wishes Mum could still do huge paintings of stars and asteroids like she used to, but since Max was born she just doesn't have time. When tragedy hits Frank and Max's lives like a comet, what will it take for Frank to piece together a universe in which he and Max aren't light years apart? | Ages: 7+ | Physical Book | eBook |
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A kids book about disability by Kristine Napper
Sometimes people act like having a disability means you're from another planet, even though over a billion people in the world have disabilities. So how do you talk about disability? How do you talk to people with disabilities? This book helps kids and grownups approach disability as a normal part of the human experience. This is one conversation that's never too early to start, and this book was written to be an introduction for kids on the topic. | Ages: 5+ | Physical Book |
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When teddy lost his smile by Karen Johnson
One day a teddy who couldn't smile, met a little girl who loved him just the way he was. A story designed for children living with facial palsy. The book aims to improve self-esteem in children with facial palsy by normalising the condition and reduce feelings of isolation so they don't feel they are 'the only one'. | Ages: 5+ | Physical Book |
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You're so amazing by James and Lucy Catchpole
One-legged Joe is 'amazing'. He knows this because wherever he goes people always tell him he's amazing. Amazing for sliding down the slide, for kicking a ball - even walking to get an ice cream, or even just eating an ice cream. Of course, being Amazing Joe is better than being Poor Joe. | Ages: 3+ | Physical Book |
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My unique ADHD world by Joanne Steer and Claire Berry
I am great at thinking quickly! I have a great sense of humour! What are you really great at? I have trouble finishing my homework. I get distracted easily. Do similar things happen to you? Learn more about ADHD and what it means for you, with fun facts that you can share with your family and teachers too. | Ages: 5+ | Physical Book |
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Pablo's feelings Sumita Majumdar and Andrew Brenner
Sometimes your face doesn't show how you are feeling. Pablo wants to go to his cousin Lorna's house, but his mum sees the expression on his face and thinks that he doesn't want to go! Pablo has autism and he sees the world in a different way. Together with his friends, the Book Animals, he comes up with a way to let people know what he is thinking! | Ages: 0+ | Physical Book |
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Busy baby: first signs with your little one by Angela Hewitt
Imagine being able to communicate with your baby and know what they want and need long before they can talk! With baby sign language, it's easy to help babies and toddlers communicate, and these skills can help early speech and language development. 'First Steps Baby Signing' helps teach your baby simple signs to help them understand their day. Learning to sign can ease frustration (for both of you!) and avoid toddler tantrums that can result when they don't yet have the language skills, but are eager for you to understand them. | Ages: 0+ | Physical Book |
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My happy day: first signs with your little one by Angela Hewitt
Imagine being able to communicate with your baby and know what they want and need long before they can talk! With baby sign language, it's easy to help babies and toddlers communicate, and these skills can help early speech and language development. 'First Steps Baby Signing' helps teach your baby simple signs to help them understand their day. Learning to sign can ease frustration (for both of you!) and avoid toddler tantrums that can result when they don't yet have the language skills, but are eager for you to understand them. | Ages: 0+ | Physical Book |
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Twinkle twinkle little star by Lucy Rogers
Join in with everybody's first performance of Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star in this simple introduction to British Sign Language! Discover simple BSL with charming artwork from illustrator Lucy Rogers demonstrating signs for this favourite rhyme. Each page shows the relevant sign for the words to the song before repeating with more detailed instructions to help parents and carers show children the signs. | Ages: 3+ | Physical Book |
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My first signs by Annie Kubler
Children are able to communicate by signing before they develop the skills necessary for speech. By teaching sign language to children from as young as eight months we can help them to convey their emotions and their needs. This dictionary shows how to sign 40 key words. | Ages: 0+ | Physical Book |
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This is me! by George Webster, Claire Taylor and Tim Budgen
Meet George, a little boy who wants to tell you all about himself. You see, like lots of people in the world, George has Down syndrome and he knows it doesn't define him - as it's just one of the many things that make George wonderful. | Ages: 3+ | Physical Book |
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Maisy goes for an eye test by Lucy Cousins
Maisy and Ella are on their way to see Flamingo the optician for their eye tests! There are games to play, pictures to look at, frames to try on and all sorts of things to learn. Friendly Flamingo even makes use of a super-duper special machine and a pair of very unusual glasses! | Ages: 0+ | Physical Book |
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A Dog Called Flow by Pippa Goodhart
Pip is a confident little monster who has ADHD. In this book, they share what that means for them and how it has some really brilliant benefits. 'My Amazing ADHD Brain' is packed with reassuring words, practical advice and skill-building activity ideas, and has a fun, relatable voice. | Ages: 4+ | Physical Book |
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Useful organisations
Hampshire County Council
Information about Special Education Needs and support available.
Gov.uk
Help if you have a disabled child.
Family Action
Support for families.
Scope
Support for both adults and children with disabilities.
Sibs
A charity for the brothers and sisters of disabled children and adults.