~Introducing Children to Down Syndrome~
Discussing Down Syndrome with young children doesn’t have to be difficult. Start by laying a framework of valuing differences and fostering empathy for all people no matter how they look or how they are different from others. Many of TPN’s Great Books and Empathy Activities are a great place to start.
Next read some of the following children’s pictures books to your child or students.
47 Strings: Tessa’s Special Code by Becky Carey
This book talks in a child friendly way about how genetic influences the development of Down Syndrome. It is a loving, caring book that helps not only children but also families come to understand Down Syndrome.
Down on the Farm by Dawn Alsept
A perfect book for the youngest children, this book is about a trip to the farm told through photographs and simple text. What makes it unique is that every child on the trip has Down Syndrome.
In My World by Gabriella Llano
Told in first person by a nine-year-old girl with Downs Syndrome, this book gives a detailed picture of a Down Syndrome child’s life. A wonderful book for developing empathy by putting yourself in the shoes of another.
My Sister: Alicia May by Nancy Tupper Ling
Illustrated with fantastic pencil drawings of two sisters, one of whom has Down Syndrome, this book reflects both the joys and frustrations of having a sibling with Down Syndrome.
We’ll Paint the Octopus Red by Stephanie Stuve-Bodeen
A girl and her father talk about her baby brother and that he has Down Syndrome. They get ready for his arrival and learn together to anticipate his arrival with joy.
My Sister, Alicia May, was not illustrated with photographs. Those are actual original colored pencil drawings by me, Shennen Bersani. It was a work of love, my own younger sister has Down Syndrome.
Thank you for correcting me. I really appreciate it. The pictures are truly wonderful and you deserve all the credit. I have fixed the reference in the blog post.