Understanding Autism: Kids Books That Foster Awareness & Acceptance
April 2nd is International Children’s Book Day but that’s not all. April is Autism Acceptance Month and April 2nd is also World Autism Awareness Day. It provides a wonderful opportunity to introduce children to books that foster understanding and appreciation of autism and neurodiversity. Back in 2023 we shared a few great books. You can view that blog here. Now in 2025 we wanted to give you even more ways you can connect with your kids while educating them and yourself about autism.
As part of our vision of a society where everyone can thrive we love the idea of sharing literature that helps children better understand individuals with autism.
Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, educator, or advocate, these books can help children learn about different ways of thinking, feeling, and experiencing the world. Here’s a selection of books that beautifully capture the essence of autism awareness and acceptance.
1. A Friend for Henry by Jenn Bailey
Henry, a young boy on the autism spectrum, navigates the ups and downs of making friends in his classroom. This heartfelt story provides an inside look at how social interactions can feel for children with autism.
2. All My Stripes: A Story for Children with Autism by Shaina Rudolph & Danielle Royer
Zane the zebra worries that his autism stripe makes him different from his peers, but his mother helps him see that all of his stripes make him special. A wonderful story about self-acceptance and embracing one’s unique qualities.
3. Uniquely Wired: A Story About Autism and Its Gifts by Julia Cook
This book follows Zak, a boy who sees and experiences the world differently because of his autism. The story highlights how being “uniquely wired” can be a strength rather than a challenge.
4. Different Thinkers: Autism by Katia Fredriksen
A great introductory book that explains autism in a way that children can understand, fostering empathy and awareness among young readers.
5. The Sky Is Not Blue by Joy Jones
This book challenges perceptions and encourages readers to see the world through different lenses, making it a great pick for discussing diverse ways of thinking.
6. Today My Brain Is a Dinosaur by Sleeping Bear Press
A charming book that helps children articulate and understand their emotions, especially on days when their brain feels different than usual.
7. Every Monday Mabel by Jashar Awan
Mabel’s love for routine highlights the importance of predictability and structure for some children on the autism spectrum, making this book a relatable read for many.
8. Grandma’s House of Rules by Henry Blackshaw
A visit to Grandma’s brings a series of quirky and unexpected rules, offering a fun way to explore differences in routines and perspectives.
How These Books Help
Books like these offer a way to start important conversations about autism and neurodiversity with children. They help to:
Promote empathy and understanding
Encourage self-acceptance in neurodivergent children
Teach peers and siblings how to be supportive friends
Which book from this list do you want to read first? Save this post and share it with a friend who would love these books!
Want more books? Check out this amazing list on Amazon by Kid Lit Mama: Explore Books You can see more books & follow @kidlitmama on Instagram Here.