BOOKS FOR CHILDREN

Here are some books recommended for or about children with Downs Syndrome and other disabilities:

The Summer of the Swans by Betsy Byars. The story of the 14 year old older sister of a boy who has a learning disability. The book recieved an award from the American Library Association

I'm Special by Jen Green. An introduction to the subject of Disability for young children Age range 3-8, but would appeal to children younger and older than this.Excellent pictures and positive text

Nothing Special by Michelline Mason. Probably the best book on inclusion ever written for children ( and adults) describing the ideal inclusive school. Its an eight year old's description of a school where a quarter of the children have disabilities or learning difficulties.Lots of the things that happened at the school are good examples of inclusion and sensitivity. The school itself doesn't exist yet, but all the things in the book have happened somewhere in a school.

Talk to me by Sue Brearley- a book about sign language, lip reading and other forms of communication with good illustrations. Suitable for age 4- 11 , for children with or without speech impairments

Danger-look out by Alison Bridge, Gaynor Baker and Liz Mountford . A book about ordinary dangers on the street, in the home etc for non-readers or those who can read a few words age range anything from 3 to adult. Well illustrated

*****Living with Downs Syndrome byJenny Bryan published by. Hodder Children. A very good book for primary age schoolchildren about Downs Syndrome with positive images of babies , children and adults with Downs Syndrome

Who cares about disabled people by Pam Adams.This is part of a series of four books, the other three being All kinds:who cares about race and colour,Who cares about elderly people and Who cares about Law and Order.They are well illustrated and suitable for 3-8 year olds. The one on disability is compassiionate and clear. NB when checking the on-line catalogue of the Good Book Guide this was listed as "Disabled People" in the Life skills-Who cares? series.