Things You'll Need:
- Access to a library or bookstore.
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Step 1
Locate potential books. Do a search at your library or bookstore website for terms like "children's books autism," "children's books disabilities," or "children's books special needs." Some bookstores will also have a section about disabilities or special needs.
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Step 2
Read the books you are thinking about using. Note how you felt about the child in the story. Did you feel sorry for him or her, or did you feel informed? The point of using these books with children is to increase understanding, not pity.
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Step 3
Look at the plot. Is the story just about the disability itself or is there a story as well? Choose some of each type of book.
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Step 4
Look at how the child with a disability is portrayed. The book should feature positive things about the child, such as interests and talents, and not only challenges.
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Step 5
Now that you've chosen books, use them as a natural part of your curriculum. For example, the book, "Russ and the Firehouse" by Janet Elizabeth Rickert is about a boy with Down Syndrome who visits a firehouse and learns what goes on there. This book could be used in a study of community helpers, community service, or jobs.
