Teaching about disabilities can help in the development of a child by promoting empathy and understanding. Encouraging kindness and compassion and building awareness also helps reduce stigma. The goal is to foster a sense of inclusion while developing critical thinking skills.
By exposing children to different experiences and challenges faced by individuals with disabilities, it helps them develop empathy and understanding. It also teaching them the importance of being kind and compassionate towards others.
Learning about disabilities also raises awareness and reduces stigma, challenging stereotypes and misconceptions. It fosters a sense of inclusion by highlighting the value of treating everyone with respect and dignity, regardless of their abilities.
Additionally, teaching about disabilities encourages critical thinking about diversity, equality, and inclusion, challenging children to question stereotypes and biases, and consider different perspectives and experiences.
Below are a few books written about (dis)abilities for ages 9 to 12. A short synopsis and why it is good reading material are offered below, along with links to buy the book(s).
“Rules” by Cynthia Lord (Published 2008)
“Rules” by Cynthia Lord is a touching story about a girl named Catherine, whose life revolves around her brother, David, who has autism. Catherine creates a list of rules to help David navigate social situations, but as she befriends a nonverbal boy named Jason, she starts to question her rules and what it means to be “normal.”
This book is great teaching material because it promotes empathy, understanding, and acceptance of people with disabilities. Through Catherine’s experiences, readers learn about the challenges faced by families with a member who has a disability and the importance of treating everyone with kindness and respect.
Adding on, “Rules” teaches valuable lessons about friendship and acceptance. As Catherine befriends Jason, she learns to see beyond his differences and appreciate him for who he is, showing readers the value of accepting others for who they are.
The book also encourages readers to think critically about societal norms and expectations. By questioning her own rules and beliefs, Catherine challenges readers to consider the limitations of labels and stereotypes, encouraging them to see people as individuals with unique strengths and challenges.
Overall, “Rules” is a valuable learning tool that promotes empathy, acceptance, and understanding. Its engaging story and relatable characters make it a great resource for teaching children about disabilities and the importance of inclusion and acceptance in society.
“Me and Mister P.” by Maria Farrer (Published 2017)
“Me and Mister P.” by Maria Farrer is a heartwarming story about an unlikely friendship between Arthur, a young boy struggling with life’s challenges, and Mister P, a polar bear who mysteriously appears in Arthur’s life. Together, they embark on adventures and learn valuable lessons about friendship, courage, and acceptance.
This book is brilliant teaching material because it promotes empathy, resilience, and the power of imagination. Through Arthur’s friendship with Mister P, readers learn about the importance of compassion and understanding towards others, especially those who may be different from us.
“Me and Mister P.” also teaches valuable lessons about dealing with difficult emotions and situations. As Arthur navigates his challenges with the help of Mister P, readers learn about the importance of facing adversity with courage and finding strength in unlikely places.
Adding on, the book encourages readers to think creatively and explore the power of imagination. Through Arthur’s adventures with Mister P, readers are inspired to see the world with wonder and curiosity, and to appreciate the magic that can be found in everyday life.
In conclusion, “Me and Mister P.” is a valuable learning tool that promotes empathy, resilience, and creativity. Its heartwarming story and engaging characters make it a great resource for teaching children about friendship, courage, and the importance of seeing the world through a lens of kindness and understanding.
“Tenacious: Fifteen Adventures Alongside Disabled Athletes” by Patty Cisneros Prevo (Published 2023)
“Tenacious: Fifteen Adventures Alongside Disabled Athletes” by Patty Cisneros Prevo is a captivating collection of stories that follows the journeys of disabled athletes as they overcome obstacles and achieve remarkable feats in various sports. Each chapter highlights a different athlete and their inspiring story of resilience, determination, and triumph.
This book is excellent teaching material because it promotes empathy, inclusion, and the celebration of diversity. Through the stories of disabled athletes, readers learn about the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities and the importance of providing equal opportunities and support for all.
Additionally, “Tenacious” teaches valuable lessons about perseverance and the power of the human spirit. As readers follow the athletes’ journeys, they learn about the determination and grit required to overcome obstacles and achieve success, inspiring them to persevere in the face of challenges in their own lives.
Furthermore, the book encourages readers to think critically about stereotypes and prejudices towards people with disabilities. By showcasing the talents and achievements of these athletes, “Tenacious” challenges readers to reconsider their assumptions and to approach disability with empathy and understanding.
Overall, “Tenacious” is a valuable learning tool that promotes empathy, inclusion, and the celebration of diversity. Its inspiring stories and powerful messages make it a great resource for teaching children about disability rights, perseverance, and the importance of embracing differences.
“Marshmallow & Jordan” by Alina Chau (Published 2021)
“Marshmallow & Jordan” by Alina Chau is a heartwarming story about friendship, courage, and the power of imagination. The book follows the adventures of Marshmallow, a shy rabbit, and Jordan, a spirited little girl, as they embark on a magical journey through a mysterious forest.
This book is good teaching material because it promotes empathy, creativity, and resilience. Through Marshmallow and Jordan’s friendship, readers learn about the importance of kindness and understanding towards others, especially those who may be different from us.
Moreover, “Marshmallow & Jordan” teaches valuable lessons about overcoming fears and embracing new experiences. As Marshmallow and Jordan encounter challenges in the forest, they learn to face their fears and discover the courage within themselves, inspiring readers to do the same in their own lives.
Adding on, the book encourages readers to think creatively and explore the power of imagination. Through Marshmallow and Jordan’s imaginative adventures, readers are inspired to see the world with wonder and curiosity, and to appreciate the magic that can be found in everyday life.
All in all, “Marshmallow & Jordan” is a valuable learning tool that promotes empathy, creativity, and resilience. Its engaging story and colorful illustrations make it a great resource for teaching children about friendship, courage, and the importance of embracing new experiences.
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