A note about what to look for and what to avoid when looking for books on neurodivergence:

There are more books about neurodivergence than I can count. Look for authors who are ND and/or are experts in neuropsychology or a related field. Look for phrases like "research based" and "best practices." Look for reviews from readers who found the book helpful in their daily lives. Look for practical advice on accommodations, positive reinforcement, validation, and/or reframing common misperceptions.

Avoid books that claim to "fix" or "cure" neurodivergence. Avoid books written for educators on classroom management as many of them are essentially "here is how to get you students to mask better" instead of "here is how to make space for your ND students." Avoid books that refer to sensory meltdowns as "tantrums." A tantrum is about what a kid wants (or wants to avoid). A meltdown is neurological response to overstimulation. You cannot punish a kid out of a meltdown.

Happy reading!

Parenting Beyond Belief and Raising Freethinkers

by Dale McGowan

Raising secular children to be kind and capable critical thinkers. Parenting Beyond Belief introduces the topic, Raising Freethinkers offers practical advice and activites.

The Out of Sync Child Has Fun

by Carol Stock Cranowitz

The first book, The Out of Sync Child, was the first book I came across that accurately described Sensory Processing Disorder, out of the plethora of child development books I read in and after university. However, while it gave a thorough explanation, even I found it dry and lacking in practical advice. This book, The Out of Sync Child Has Fun, is a companion piece and is both more accessible and more practical. It is full of activities and accommodations to help your sensational learner thrive.

How to Talk so Kids Will Listen and Listen so Kids Will Talk

by Adele Faber and Elaine Mazlish

Absurdly long title aside, this book is a must read for any parent or caregiver who feels like their learner is not listening or who feels like miscommunication is getting in the way of a peaceful family life.