Neurodiv Story

BOOKS

Selecting the right books for a neurodivergent-inclusive Storytime is important. Librarians should consider choosing books with clear language, large font, and realistic illustrations (Kluth, Chandler-Olcott, n.d, Anderson, 2021). Materials should also be appropriate for the targeted developmental age (Kluth, Chandler-Olcott, n.d). Books with text that are repetitive are beneficial to autistic children as they can increase their understanding and also provide a measure of comfort (TPL, 2011). Multiple copies of books, if feasible, may also be purchased to allow patrons to interact directly with the material (Anderson, 2021).

Another vital element to consider when determining which books to select is representation. According to Dr. Rudine Sims Bishop (1990), “When children cannot find themselves in books, or when they see themselves presented only as laughable stereotypes, they learn a powerful lesson about how much they are undervalued in the society in which they are a part” (p.5). Black, Indigenous, or people of colour (BIPOC) with disabilities are underrepresented in literature and contend with more isolation and negative perceptions than their peers (Anderson, 2021). Often the common conception of an autistic person is that of a young white male (Anderson, 2021). Where possible, librarians/library staff may want to consider selecting books containing diverse characters. Such an intentional act can foster a greater level of inclusion. Below are several books which depict BIPOC individuals with ASD and ADHD. As well, a few organizations are highlighted that provide useful booklists.

Below are several books which depict BIPOC individuals with ASD and ADHD. As well, a few organizations are highlighted below that provide useful booklists.

booklists

Reading Rockets

Reading Rockets is a website dedicated to literacy and providing educators, librarians and parents with information to support young readers. The picture booklist is a helpful resource that features individuals with Autism, Asperger’s and ADHD. The curated books also focus on emotional regulation, social skill building and sensory needs.

The Diverse BookFinder

The Diverse BookFinder is an online resource recognized by the American Association of School Librarians (AASL). The website consists of blog entries, collections and booklists. Searching the term autism generates a list of picture books featuring BIPOC individuals.

Toronto Public Library

The Toronto Public Library curates a booklist focused on neurodiversity with an emphasis on presenting respectful depictions of individuals who are neurodiverse. The titles are arranged by reading level, from picture books to middle grade.

Supplementary Equipment and Stim Toys

Opportunities for movement and singing are crucial within neurodivergent-inclusive Storytime; and a key feature is to integrate sensory elements. Books and activities focusing on taste, touch, smell, sight, and hearing are essential. Anderson (2021) highlights the use of felt boards, felt pieces, bean bags, scarves, play tunnels, parachutes, bubbles and other activities to accompany the selected reading, which enhances the experience. The TPL toolkit (2011.) includes a useful list of equipment and props and potential suppliers of them. A librarian selecting a book about gardening, for instance, can incorporate a sensory activity which involves bringing in plants for the children to interact with utilizing their sense of touch and smell (Anderson, 2021).

Storytime can be an overwhelming experience. A delay in start time or high noise levels can be particularly challenging for patrons with ASD and ADHD. Stim toys (fidget toys) or other devices can help patrons focus and self-regulate (Autistics United Canada n.d). Stress, anxiety, frustration, annoyance and overexcitement are all emotions that can emerge and may require the use of stim toys to mitigate (Anderson, 2021). Best practices may include supplying a variety of fidget toys in an area that is accessible to all or creating a sensory kit(Anderson, 2021).

Image credit: Cottrell, 2016.

Potential kits can consist of five or six stim toys with additional equipment. Suggested kits could include:

To acquire additional information concerning stim toys (fidget toys), other supplies and interventions to facilitate an inclusive and engaging storytime, consult the following resources.

Library Programming for Autistic Children and Teens

The Library Programming for Autistic Children and Teens book is an invaluable resource providing concrete examples of interventions, program plans, and sensory activities which can be altered or reproduced in their entirety to suit the needs of the storytime envisioned.

Neurodiversity Library

The Neurodiversity Library explores the concept of stimming (repetitive self-stimulation) and its relationship to stim toys. Also, it provides information which can increase an individual’s understanding of the value of stim toys.

Scholar’s Choice

Scholar’s Choice is Canada's largest supplier of children’s furniture and educational toys and materials. Through their website, sensory and stim toys are available for purchase along with other equipment.

Dollarama

Dollarama is a discount store with numerous locations throughout Canada. Some smaller equipment and stim toys are available online or in-store. However, creativity or out-of-the-box thinking may be necessary as they may not always sell the exact item.

MATERIALS