This is the real story about a family's experience welcoming a baby with Down Syndrome into their lives. When Isabella was born, she was greeted with open arms and a loving heart by her mother, father, and especially her big brother. Kids will enjoy all of the fun they have together, as well as the support they provide so she has a very well-rounded, happy life. This book shares how the family supports Isabella's social development through a buddy system, as well as the early intervention work that has helped her reach her full potential.
Picture Books With Down Syndrome Characters
There are many good reasons why it's important to read your child books about characters with Down Syndrome. If you child has an extra chromosome , it's important to build a collection of picture books featuring kids that look like them. Reading these uplifting stories will have a positive impact on your own child's self-esteem and confidence. Also consider giving your child a doll with Down Syndrome features to reinforce the beauty of their own personal attributes. Remember it is equally valuable to read stories about Down Syndrome to kids who don't have developmental issues. These books will help little readers understand that the characters in these books are not very different than themselves. Children with extra chromosomes are social, smart, active, loving human beings who are celebrated throughout these picture books.
Best Stories to Read Kids With Down Syndrome
One of the best ways to open a child's mind is reading books early on that feature diverse characters. The world in which we live is comprised of people with all kinds of developmental abilities. It's important to find good books that represent children with a wide variety of behaviors, talents, interests, physical traits and intelligence. Collecting children's books about kids with Down Syndrome is a great place to start. Kids living with this chromosome deficit will enjoy reading stories about others just like them. And kids who are developmentally normal will learn that they have more in common with these children than they ever realized.
My Sister, Alicia May
Rachel adores her sister, Alicia May, and cherishes the special bond they share. Most of the time, Rachel feels an enormous sense of love and pride for her. She is also truthful and transparent about the frustration and resentment she feels every once in a while. Alicia May is quite independent but she does require her sister to look after her sometimes. This story is open, honest, and punctuated with occasional humor that will make your little one giggle.
Hansel & Gretel: A Fairy Tale with a Down Syndrome Twist
A touching story based on the classic Grimms' fairytale about a pair of clever siblings who escape from a wicked witch. This book places a particular emphasis on using kindness to conquer evil. The brother, who has Down Syndrome, leads the way in this book about courage and overcoming challenges. The book does place great emphasis on the fact that the brother has Down Syndrome, and he does not present with any notable disabilities.
What's Inside You Is Inside Me, Too
This gentle, poetic, and accessible children's book about Down Syndrome will help little ones understand what causes the disorder. Readers learn that chromosomes are what make every single person unique, and that kids with Down Syndrome happen to have an extra one. The story moves on in an upbeat, happy tone, highlighting all the wonderful attributes of people, especially those with Down Syndrome. This is a great book that encourages inquisitive children to probe and ask questions while emphasizing empathy and kindness.
Sing Fox to Me
An enchanting, middle-grade chapter book about twins who experience love, loss, and adventure atop a mountain in Tasmania. Samson, who has Down Syndrome, and Jonah move from the Sunshine Coast to spend time with their grandfather in his remote home. Clancy Fox has lived alone for many years and has devoted his life to find his missing daughter. Jonah quickly becomes obsessed with finding River as well, which only stokes his already dark and brooding demeanor. Samson, on the other hand, is immediately taken with the beauty and magical nature of the mountain. He sees light and positivity everywhere. An engrossing, fast-paced novel that is strangely haunting and unusual.
My Friend Has Down Syndrome
Filled with vibrant photographs of friends playing together, this picture book about Down Syndrome is helpful and straightforward. Leveled text is written for kids who are starting to read independently. It explains how Down Syndrome affects kids physically and through their actions. There is also guidance to help children befriend and engage with those who have developmental differences.
This is Ella
Charming illustrations of adorable Ella fill the pages of this book about a little girl who has Down Syndrome. Like most kids, Ella is social, happy, and active. She is an enthusiastic student at school, loves to rider her bike, and does a fantastic job taking care of her little sister. There are a few differences, like the way she looks and the way she pronounces some words, that Ella would prefer not to mention. More than anything, she just wants to be accepted and loved by lots of friends. The story is followed by some helpful information and tips for inclusion.
Hannah's Down Syndrome Superpowers
A bright and charming little girl tells readers all about how her extra chromosome makes her special. She addresses her physical and developmental differences in a very positive and uplifting way. At the same time, she is quick to address all of the things she has in common with other kids. In the back of the book, there are real photographs of the girl who was the model for this story. An excellent addition to foster inclusion and kindness toward children with Down Syndrome.
47 Strings: Tessa's Special Code
The title of this book, 47 strings, refers to the extra chromosome that causes Trisomy 21, more commonly known as Down Syndrome. This children's book about Down Syndrome explains the similarities and differences between siblings, one of which has an extra chromosome. Softly pleasing illustrations and easy-to-understand text appeal to the preschool and kindergarten age level.
Head Above Water
This chapter books for tweens offers a realistic look at the effect this disorder has on family members and siblings. Skye is a junior in high school with a lot of responsibilities. She is working hard to maintain a high GPA and is training for the high school swim team. As the daughter of a single mom, her best hope to attend college is by getting a scholarship. Since her mother is working two jobs to keep the family afloat, Skye is responsible for taking care of her younger brother. He has Down Syndrome which proves challenging and frustrating for Skye, given all of the other things she is trying to balance. A story of grit and determination doesn't gloss over the sometimes difficult moments a sibling presents.
We'll Paint the Octopus Red
This sweet and affirming story comes highly recommended by parents of Down Syndrome babies with older siblings. Emma is a six year old girl who has been eagerly anticipating the arrival of her baby brother. Leading up to his birth, she has developed a long list of all the fun things they will do together. She envisions everything from playing ball to going on a safari in Africa together. But when Isaac finally makes his entry into the world, Emma's father explains that he has an extra chromosome. At first she is disappointed that she won't get to do all of the fun things with her brother. Her father gently explains that Isaac can, in fact, do everything on Emma's list, even if he requires a little help from time to time.
My Friend Has Down Syndrome
This story is an introduction to children about Down Syndrome. It is expressly written for kids who are starting school and will meet new friends with a variety of developmental abilities. The author covers some sensitive that children answers a lot of questions and opens up a more in-depth discussion. The prevailing message is that these kids have many more similarities than differences from others. Once children have a better understanding and comfort level, they will be better equipped to embrace, include, and enjoy special friendships.
My Friend Isabelle
A sweet and easy-to-understand picture book about a special friendship between Charlie and Isabelle, who has Down Syndrome. The story is told from the perspective of Charlie, who shares all of the things the two have in common. They love to snack on Cheerios, play in the park, read books, and dance. Charlie mentions some subtle differences about Isabelle, like the fact that she does not run fast and is a bit on the short side. But never does the story actually mention the disability until a short paragraph at the very end. Recommended for preschoolers, this book is an excellent choice for teaching kids to embrace others, including their differences.
My Friend Has Down Syndrome
This helpful book can really broken down into two parts. The main story focuses on the special friendship between Sarah and Carmen. They go to the same school and enjoy taking ballet class together. Certain topics come up throughout the story, like the fact that Carmen has some distinct physical characteristics and learns differently. But Sarah is quick to point out that every single person is unique. Alongside the story, there are information boxes that provide scientific and medical facts about Down Syndrome. Kids will find valuable information about what causes this disorder and some of the more common traits associated with it.
Taking Down Syndrome to School
his book is part of a series written for children to develop more empathy and understanding. Kids with special needs may learn and behave differently in school. Readers will learn about what causes this disorder, and all the ways they can accept, include, and support their classmates. The author offers terms that should never be used and provides suggestions for teachers to keep all students engaged, even those with learning disabilities.
Be Good to Eddie Lee
Christy loves to go out and play with all the kids in the neighborhood. The long summer days are carefree and fun for Christy. But whenever she heads out the door, her mother reminds her to be good to Eddie Lee. He lives close by and likes to tag along with the others. Christy find him to be a nuisance until he takes her to a special place in the woods. When Eddie Lee shows her something remarkable, Christy learns that he sees the world in a beautiful light and she's lucky to have him as a friend.
Why Are You Looking At Me? I Just Have Down Syndrome
It is a fairy common occurrence for young children to stare at other people who look a little different. There are a lot of distinguishing features that are shared by kids with Down Syndrome. The helpful story is told from the perspective of a little girl who is tired of others staring at her. She is here to tell readers that her appearance doesn't define her. In fact, she has a lot more in common with other children than they realize. So please stop staring and just say hello!
Can I Tell You About Down Syndrome?
David is a young boy who is here to tell readers all about himself. In a refreshing voice, he assures kids that he has a lot of things in common with them. David goes on to explain that sometimes he needs a little extra help at school and identifies all the ways his friends can support him. This story, geared toward kids age 7+, expertly squashes the many myths.
Different: A Great Thing to Be!
A best-selling picture book about Macy, a little girl who celebrates and embraces her differences. Written in rhyme, the story follows Macy as she moves throughout her day. She meets up with all of her friends in the neighborhood and this diverse group enjoys playing together. Although Macy's condition is not explicitly mentioned in the book, the overall message is one of inclusion no matter what.
I Have Down Syndrome and God Made Me Just Right!
Children with Down Syndrome have an extra chromosome- exactly as God wanted! In this joyful picture book, a group of children learns that they are perfect no matter their differences. A happy, upbeat tone with charming pictures celebrates all kids who learn that God never makes mistakes.
Katie Can: A Story About Special Needs
Rather than focus on what she can't do, this sunny book emphasizes all the tasks and activities Katie can perform independently. Vibrant pictures paired with simple text work well for preschool-aged readers. There are reading comprehension questions in the back which help open a conversation with your child about Down Syndrome. This book is part of the Challenges and Changed in My Life series for kids.
The Lollipop Book Club is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com.
Explore Additional Children's Books on Disabilities
|
Supportive Kids' Books With Autistic Characters |