Read About It The following is a list of books about Down syndrome. The list is by no means inclusive, but is a sample of what is available to parents. These books can be found at most bookstores in the Special Needs or in the Children’s section. ODSPN has partnered with Barnes & Noble. A portion of sale price of all books that are purchased from Barnes & Noble through our website will be given back to ODSPN. Additionally, all of these books are available to be borrowed by our families from our Lending Library. Please email info@odspn.org with the name of the book you would like to borrow. These books will be helpful when working on the development of speech and language for children with Down syndrome. Social skills and behavior issues in a school setting are discussed in these books and will be helpful to parents and educators. The many components of the inclusive education process are explored in these books. They will appeal to both parents and educators. These books will explore the adolescent school years for children with Down syndrome who attend an inclusive school. The learning building blocks for children with Down syndrome are discussed in these books. Planning for the financial future for individuals with Down syndrome. These books discuss some of the health concerns that concern individuals with Down syndrome. These books provide instructional tips for developing a child’s movement skills. These books are geared toward parents of an unborn or recently born child with Down syndrome. They will help educate, appeal to their apprehension and discuss early intervention. These books will provide support and advice for siblings of individuals with Down syndrome. Individuals with direct experience with a person with Down syndrome have authored these books. These books are about children with Down syndrome and are appropriate for children with Down syndrome. These books portray people with Down syndrome in everyday activities. The fact they have Down syndrome is not discussed. These books do have pictures or illustrations showing children with Ds going about their lives, just like everyone else. The books are for all different ages with the majority in the 4-8 year old group. These books are available in Spanish. Classroom Language Skills for Children with Down Syndrome Kumin, L. (2001). Woodbine House. The next communication book to be used for children with Down syndrome starting in Kindergarten. This book gives many practical examples and ideas about how to help our children speak and communicate. Provides information for teachers and caregivers. Communication Skills in Children With Down Syndrome Kumin, L. (1994). Woodbine House. The next communication book to be used for children with Down syndrome starting in Kindergarten. This book gives many practical examples and ideas about how to help our children speak and communicate. Provides information for teachers and caregivers. The New Language of Toys: Teaching Communication Skills to Children with Special Needs Schwartz, Sue. (2004). Woodbine House. Good resource for teaching, along with pictures and updated examples for using toys as communication tools for children with disabilities. ^Back to Top Behavioral Support: Teachers’ Guides to Inclusive Practices Janney, Rachel and Martha E. Snell. (2000). Paul H. Brookes Publishing Co. Proactive ideas for teachers, counselors and parents to use when developing appropriate behavioral skills for children with behavior issues. From Emotions to Advocacy Wright, Pete & Pam. (2001). Harbor House Law Press. Excellent resource for navigating through the special education process. Promoting Social Success: A Curriculum for Children with Special Needs Siperstein, Gary N. & Emily Paige Rickards. (2004). Paul H Brookes Publishing Company. This guide has activity-based lessons on social skills, organized around topics that build on each other. This guide addresses a goal of improving the social skills of students with disabilities and their peers. The Bully, the Bullied and the Bystander Coloroso, Barbara. (2003). Quill. A practical book written by an educator outlining the three kinds of bullying and steps parents can take to stop this type of activity. As parents of children with disabilities, our children in all likelihood will be subject to this at some time in their lives. It is helpful reading so that a parent can decide how they will assist their child in dealing with this. ^Back to Top Creativity & Collaborative Learning: The Practical Guide to Empowering Students & Teachers Thousand, Jacqueline S. Richard A. Villa and Ann I. Nevine. (2002). Paul H. Brookes Publishing Company. Guide for education professionals on using the collaborative learning model when working with children in special education. Strategies, case studies and lesson plans are also included. Choosing Outcomes and Accommodations for Children: A Guide to Educational Planning for Students with Disabilities Giangrecco, Michael F, Chigee J. Cloninger and Virginia Salce Iverson. (1998). Paul H Brookes Publishing Company. Practical guide for making the accommodations for children in special education to be successful in general education classrooms. Real life examples, explicit instructions, and helpful hints are some of the features of this guide. Inclusion. 450 Strategies For Success: A Practical Guide For All Educators Who Teach Students with Disabilities Hammeken, Peggy A. (2000). Peytral Publications, Inc. A practical resource guide for educators about how to implement or expand the inclusive education program. Has examples of realistic schedules for educators for increasing skills of all. Has worksheets that could be adapted for any classroom setting. Inclusive Middle Schools Kennedy, Graig H. & Douglas Fisher. (2001). Paul H Brookes Publishing Company. Strategies and techniques for working with your school administrators and teachers so that your child is fully included in their middle school. Inclusive Urban Schools Fisher, Douglas and Nancy Frey. (2003). Paul H Brookes Publishing Company. This guide details inclusive practices in large urban schools. Gives real life examples on how this can and should work. Has practical ideas and lessons that are ready to use by all. Modifying Schoolwork: Teachers’ Guides to Inclusive Practices Janney, Rachel and Martha E. Snell. (2000). Paul H Brookes Publishing Company. This guide has examples, strategies and models for teachers about how to adapt the class and curriculum and to provide individualized instruction for a child in special education. More Than Shared Classrooms: Educating Kids With and Without Disabilities Together Successfully Remus, Michael and Bev Adcock. (1998). Possibilities Inc. A great primer about how to make an inclusive educational environment work. Gives real life examples of adaptation, modification and what IDEA really means. Negotiating the Special Education Maze: A Guide for Parents and Teachers Anderson, Winnifred, Stephen Chitwood, and Deidre Hayden. (1997). Woodbine House Resource guide for all involved for obtaining appropriate instruction and therapy designed to meet the unique educational needs of every child in special education. Guide is for preschool to age 21. No Child Left Behind Wright, Peter W.D. Esq. and Pamela Darr Wright and Suzanne Whitney Heath. (2004). Harbor House Law Press, Inc. Provides an easy to understand guide of what this bill means to children in special education. Quick-Guides To Inclusion 2: Ideas for Educating Students with Disabilities Giangreco, Michael F. (1998). Paul H. Brookes Publishing Company. A step-by-step guide on how to include children with disabilities in a variety of classroom settings. It includes how to adapt the curriculum, communications systems and other topics for our children. Meant to be used for all ages. Schooling Children With Down Syndrome: Toward An Understanding of Possibility Kliewer, Christopher. (1998). Teachers College. This book talks about the struggle for children with Down syndrome to be integrated into the classroom and what happens when the child is in a regular classroom. Social Relationships and Peer Support (Teachers’ Guides to Inclusive Practices) Snell, Martha E. and Rachel Hanney. (2000). Paul H. Brookes Publishing Company. This handbook guides educators to assimilate students with disabilities into class activities and enhance social relationships. A Teacher’s Guide to Including Students with Disabilities in General Physical Education Block, Marting E. (2000). Paul H. Brookes Publishing Company. Resource guide with strategies and ideas about how to include students with disabilities in the general physical education classes. Forms and real life examples, along with tips on behavior managements, classroom safety, adapted aquatics and the social aspects of inclusion are a part of this guide. Teachers’ Guides to Inclusive Practices for Student Directed Learning Agran, Martin and Margaret E King Sears, Michael L Wehmeyer and Susan R Copeland. (2003). Paul H. Brookes Publishing Company. Step-by-step instructions for helping students with disabilities learn self-monitoring, self-evaluation, self-instruction, problem-solving and other student-directed learning strategies. It includes specific activities for implementing the strategies. The Paraprofessional’s Guide to the Inclusive Classroom: Working as a Team Doyle, Mary Beth. (2002). Paul H. Brookes Publishing Company. Excellent resource for paraprofessionals to use when working with a child in special education. Activities, new case studies, how to communicate with the parents and the teacher and examples of forms to use are included in this guide. What You Need to Know About Special Education Remus, Michael L. and Bev Adcock. (2002). Possibilities Inc. A short primer about how special education works and your rights as a parent. Written in easy to understand language. ^Back to Top Adventures In The Mainstream: Coming of Age with Down Syndrome Palmer, Greg. (2005). Woodbine House. This book chronicles the transition from high school to work of his son, Ned, based on journal entries made by Greg during this time. Nice insights into what parents are looking for, fearing and hoping for our children when they leave the educational system. Inclusive High Schools: Learning From Contemporary Classrooms Fisher, Douglas, Carn Sax and Ian Pumpian. (1999). Paul H. Brookes Publishing Company. This book provides a framework for developing inclusive high schools. Good resource for anyone who is thinking about having their child attend an inclusive high school, including building relationships, communicating with officials and all of the steps that are necessary so that the experience is positive and worthwhile for all involved. Regular Class Integration of Middle School Students with Severe Disabilities: Feedback From Teachers and Classmates York, Jennifer, Terri Vandercook, and Cathy MacDonald. (1989). University of MN. Survey and report of educators, special educators and classmates without disabilities at the end of the first year that middle school students with severe disabilities were included into regular education classes. Interesting comments from all parties. Restructuring High Schools for All Students: Taking Inclusion to the Next Level Jorgensen, Cheryl M. (2001). Paul H. Brookes Publishing Company. This resource asserts and demonstrates that all students benefit from the social opportunities and academic expectations of high schools. Strategies and real life examples demonstrate how self-determination, transition planning and other special education practices can work in a general education setting. ^Back to Top Building Blocks for Teaching Preschoolers with Special Needs Sandall, Susan R. and Ilene S. Schwartz. (2002). Paul H. Brookes Publishing Co. A great book that gives real life examples of children with disabilities and how a preschool curriculum can and should be adapted so that all preschoolers are taught together. My Word Book: Words For Writing and Spelling Dale, Marily. (2003). Woodbine House. Great guide to helping children with cognitive disabilities begin to master the concepts of writing and spelling. Teaching Math to People with Down Syndrome and Other Hands On Learners, Book 1 Basic Survival Skills Horstmeier, Deanna, Ph. D. (2004). Woodbine House. Parents and educators can use this guide to teach meaningful math to students. Written by a parent of a child with Down syndrome. Teaching Reading to Children With Down Syndrome Oelwein, Patricia Logan. (1995). Woodbine House. This book outlines techniques and ideas about how to teach reading to children with Down syndrome. It also has pictures to use in the back of the book to give parents a head start on assisting the children. ^Back to Top Special Needs Trust: A Guide for Trustees Jackins, Barbara D. (2004). Great little book about the questions to ask if you are a trustee. The ABC’s of Special Needs Planning…Made Easy Stevens, Bart Chlap, (2002). The Stevens Group LLC. A step-by-step process of how to help parents who have children with disabilities plan for the future, supervision, security, and quality of life. Written as though the author is having a conversation with the parent in easy-to-understand language. ^Back to Top Down Syndrome and Vitamin Therapy McLeod, Kent. (2003). Talks about using vitamin therapy. Not too scientifically based. Much anecdotal information. Incredible Edible Gluten Free Food for Kids Sanderson, Shari. (2002). Woodbine House. Great resource for what to feed a child on a gluten free diet. It’s So Amazing Harris, Robie H. (2002). Candlewick. Easy-to-understand explanations of the facts of life. Kids with Celiac Disease Korn, Danna. (2001). Woodbine House. Practical guide for families who have a child with celiac sprue, including lots of advice and strategies and menu and snack ideas. Sleep Better! A Guide to Improving Sleep for Children With Special Needs V. Mark Duran. (1998). Paul H. Brookes Publishing Company. This book offers step by step instructions for addressing a variety of issues around sleep, including night waking, bedtime tantrums and more. The Down Syndrome Nutrition Handbook Medlen, Joan E. Guthrie. (2002). Woodbine House. Nutrition information for people with Down syndrome. ^Back to Top Down Syndrome: Visions for the 21st Century Edited by William I. Cohen, Lynn Nadel and Myra E. Madnick (2002). Wiley-Liss. This book contains a series of the latest research articles and findings about Down syndrome. The articles cover ages from birth to adult. The book also includes personal stories and articles written by adults with Down syndrome. Fine Motors Skills in Children with Down Syndrome Buni, Mayanne. (1998). Woodbine House. Great resource for working on fine motor skills. Includes photos. Freedom to Move: Movement and Dance for People with Intellectual Disabilities Dunphy, Kim & Jenny Scott. (2003). Maclennan & Petty. Guide for teaching and using dance and movement for people with cognitive disabilities. Ideas and strategies for running a session. Also includes photos. Gross Motor Skills in Children with Down Syndrome: A Guide for Parents and Professionals Winders, PC. (1997). Woodbine House. Children with Down syndrome master basic gross motor skills (everything from rolling over to running) just as their peers do, but need help along the way. This book features over 100 easy-to-follow activities that are developmentally appropriate for ages birth through six years. Activities are prefaced by guidelines and tips for successful completion, and accompanying photographs provide further clarification. ^Back to Top Babies with Down Syndrome: A New Parents’ Guide (2nd edition). Stray-Gunderssen, K. (Ed.) (1995). Woodbine Books. Parents and professionals contribute chapters on the medical, emotional, educational and social issues concerning the development of the child and the family. A first book for anyone wishing to learn more about Down syndrome, especially new parents. Little Children, Big Need Weinhouse & Marily Weinhouse. (1994). University of Colorado Press. This book outlines basic steps that parents who have children with disabilities go through when their child is diagnosed. Contains short essays from parents at the end of each section with the experiences. A Parents Guide to Down Syndrome: Toward a Brighter Future Pueschel, S.M. (2001). Paul H. Brookes Publishing Company. A detailed guide for parents and professionals which discusses the nature of the physical, social, mental and emotional development of children with Down syndrome. Emphasis is given to early intervention, with professionals from various disciplines contributing chapters. Pueschel is a parent of a child with Down syndrome. Special Kids Need Special Parents Lavin, Judith Loseff. (2001). Berley Books. An easy-to-read book that addresses many issues and concerns when raising a child with a disability. Written in easy-to-understand language. Addresses all aspects of the family when a child with a disability is involved. Understanding Down Syndrome: An Introduction for Parents Cunningham, Cliff. (1996). Brookline Books. Another guide when dealing with the diagnosis of Down syndrome. The book is divided into chapters going through all of the steps and also has quotes from parents when dealing with the issues in a particular chapter. Keys To Parenting a Child with Down Syndrome Brill, Marlene Targ. (1993). Barrons Educational Series. A step-by-step guide about how to parent a child with Down syndrome. The book contains practical advice for parents and professionals when dealing with children with Down syndrome. Kids Are Worth It! Coloroso, Barbara. (2002). First Harper Resources. Filled with practical suggestions for handling the ordinary and extraordinary trials of growing up, this book gives techniques and tips on helping any child grow and develop. The Parent-to-Parent Handbook: Connecting Families of Children with Special Needs Santelli, Betsy et al. (2001). Paul H. Brookes Publishing Company. This book details what a parent-to-parent program should consist of and the valuable resources it can provide to parents who have a child with a disability. Omaha, Nebraska pioneered the Pilot Parent program, which then was replicated across the United States as the Parent-to-Parent program. Great resource and background information. Parenting on Purpose: Red, Yellow, Green Framework for Respectful Discipline Alden, Ada. (2004). Crane Publishing Company. This guide provides a method to deliver direct and clear messages and routines to all children, centered around the concepts of red, yellow and green zones. Positive Behavior Support Joseph, Glen Dunlap & Richard Albin. (2002). Brookling House. Addressing challenging behaviors for children with disabilities. Special Kids Need Special Parents Lavin, Judith Loseff. (2001). Berley Books. An easy-to-read book that addresses many issues and concerns when raising a child with a disability. Written in easy-to-understand language. Addresses all aspects of the family when a child with a disability is involved. Steps to Independence: Teaching Everyday Skills to Children with Special Needs Baker, Bruce L. and Alan J. Brightman. (2004). Paul H. Brookes Publishing Company. Resource guide with proven strategies for children ages 3 through young adulthood to teach them to live as independently as possible. Breaks down everyday tasks in easy-to-understand segments for teaching and learning. ^Back to Top Being The Other One: Growing Up With A Brother or Sister Who Has Special Needs Strohm, Kate. (2005). Shambhala. Great resource told from a sibling’s perspective about what it is like to grow up with a sibling with a disability. It is not sugar-coated and addresses some tough issues. Brothers & Sisters. A Special Part of Exceptional Families. Powell,Thomas H. & Peggy A. Gallagher. (2005). Paul H. Brookes Publishing Co. A good book exploring all the issues when a sibling has a disability and the impact that has on a family. Good real life stories from siblings- honest in their words about the good and bad about having a sibling with a disability. Contains strategies for families to use from siblings to help build positive, lifelong relationships. It Isn’t Fair! Siblings of Children with Disabilities Klein, Stanley D. & Maxwell J. Schleifer. (1992). Bergin & Garvey. Stories told from the perspective of siblings of a child with a disability. Brutally honest, it does not sugar-coat feelings of some children. The Sibling Slam Book Meyer, Donald. (2005). Woodbine House. A book written by people who have siblings with disabilities. Has some great comments from these brothers and sisters, along with professional information. Sibshops: Workshops for Siblings of Children with Special Needs Meyer, Donald J. & Patricia F. Vadasy. (2004). Paul H. Brookes Publishing Company. This guide describes how to plan Sibshops for a group. It can be adapted to work with siblings of children with many different needs in the classroom. Special Siblings: Growing Up with Someone with a Disability Mc Hugh, Mary. (2003). Paul H. Brookes Publishing Company. This book is written by a sister whose brother has cerebral palsy and mental retardation, but it has reflections from other siblings about what it is like to have a sibling with a disability. It is an excellent guide for siblings and parents who wonder what their children/siblings feel about having a sibling who is different. ^Back to Top A Certain Kind of Love Wright, Deborah & Jean Joy Crowley. (1999). Versa Press. Stories of families with special needs children. After The Tears Simons, Robin. (1987). Harvest Books. Parents talk about raising a child with a disability. Angel Behind the Rocking Chair: Stories of Hope in Unexpected Places Vredevelt, Pam. (1998). Multnomah Publishing. From a woman who has known deep disappointment in the birth of a handicapped child, glimpses of hope and God’s love coming through. Written with many religious references, Pam tells the story of her son’s birth and her acceptance and love for her child. Another Season: A Coach’s Story of Raising an Exceptional Child. Stallings, Gene. (1998). Broadway Books. The true story of a father, an Alabama football coach, who is the parent of a boy with Down syndrome. Gene Stallings talks about his feelings, frustrations and concerns when his son was born in 1962. Some of the language and thoughts are outdated, considering what is done for children with Down syndrome today, but his feelings are still relevant. A Smile as Big As The Moon Kersjes, Mike & Joe Layden. (2002). St Martins Griffin. True story of a special education teacher who took his students to space camp. A Special Kind of Hero: Chris Burke’s Own Story Burke, Chris & Jo Beth Mc Daniel. (1991). Authors Guild Backinprint.com. The story of Chris Burke’s life as told by Chris and his parents. It details the attitudes and opinions of people with Down syndrome at that time, along with Chris’ desire to be an actor. Bethy and the Mouse: A Father Remembers his Children with Disabilities Blakely, Donald. (1997). Brookline Books. Story of a young girl with Down syndrome from birth to age 5. Changed By A Child: Companion Notes for Parents of a Child With a Disability Gill, Barbara. (1998). Barbara Gill provides brief meditations and passages about the challenges, grief, faith, hope and other feelings and experiences of parents who have a disabled child. Gill’s son has Down syndrome and she writes with the authority and credibility of a parent who has been through it herself. For those parents who do feel alone, this book may serve as a kind of compassionate companion. Choosing Naia: A Family’s Journey Zuckoff, Mitchell. (2002). Beacon Press. An account of an interracial couple who learn during their pregnancy that their child will be born with Down syndrome and with a heart defect. The book chronicles their decision to continue with the pregnancy, the challenges they face from family and friends, their daughter’s heart surgery and ends with her first birthday. Circles Of Friends. Perske, Robert. (1988). Abingdon Press. A collection of true stories and issues around friendships between people with disabilities and typically developing peers. Good read for how important friendships are for all people—with and without disabilities. Common Threads Kidder, Cynthia S. & Brian Skotko. (2001). Band of Angels Press. Collections of essays written about children with Down syndrome and their experiences, along with their parents’. Photographs of all the interviewees are also included in the book. Count Us In: Growing Up with Down Syndrome Kingsley, Jason and Levitz Mitchell. (1994). Harcourt Brace and Company. Written by two young men who have Down syndrome, it details their views on life as they see it. Differences In Common Trainer, Marilyn. (1991). Woodbine House. Series of essays were originally published throughout her son’s life. Her son is now in his twenties. Down Syndrome: One Family’s Journey. Beth’s Successes Blakely, Donald C. (2002). Brookline Books. Takes up where Bethy and the Mouse left off. Details Beth’s life, both in and out of school, after age 5 up to her early 20’s. Don’t Sing Any Sad Songs Icenhower, Rasalie. (2000). America House Book Publishers. Personal account of a mother whose daughter was born in 1964. The book is a good example of how much attitudes and ideas have changed when dealing with a child with Down syndrome. Expecting Adam: A True Story of Birth, Rebirth and Everyday Magic Beck, Martha. (1999). Times Books. An autobiographical tale of a family, Harvard educated, who discover they are having a baby with Down syndrome. Martha kept a journal throughout her pregnancy and this book details the journey of that pregnancy and beyond. For the Love of Matthew Houska, Janice Credit. (2002). Trafford. A short novel about life in North Dakota written by a parent of a child with Down syndrome. The story ends at 8th grade, with a short epilogue. Written from a parent’s point of view. From the Heart: On Being the Mother of a Child with Special Needs Edited by Jayne D.B. Marsh. (1995). Woodbine House. Collection of essays about what it is like to parent a child with a disability and how important it is to realize that you are a parent and a person and not perfect. Easy read. Jackie Junot, Dan. (2001). Center for Special Success. A father’s story about raising a daughter born in 1972 with Down syndrome. Attitudes and opinions have changed since then, but this story has a different slant as there is a moral at the end of each chapter. Karina Has Down Syndrome Rogers, Cheryl & Gun Dolva. (1998). Jessica Kingsley Publishers Story of an English family who has a daughter with Down syndrome. Life As We Know it: A Father, A Family and an Exceptional Child Berube, M. (1996). Pantheon Books. This book is a father’s compelling story of his attempt to make the world a better place for his son who has Down syndrome. The author tells of his son’s development during his first four years of life and addresses a number of issues including IQ testing, the politics of education, disability,law, social services, health care and entitlements. Berube frames these issues within the larger concepts of social justice, what it means to be human, and ultimately, what kind of society we value and by what means we determine it. Mummy, Why Have I got Down Syndrome? Philips, Caroline. (1991). Lion Paperback. Story of an English family with a daughter with Down syndrome. Nobody’s Perfect: Living and Growing with Children Who Have Special Needs Miller, Nancy B. (1994). Paul H. Brookes Publishing Company. Excellent resource book going through the steps and concerns that parents have when their child has a disability. Each chapter has a set of turning points to help the reader put things into perspective and also gives the reader some things to think about. Reflections from a Different Journey Klein, Stanley D. & John D. Kemp. (2004). McGraw Hill. Stories from adults with disabilities. Retarded Isn’t Stupid, Mom! Kaufman, Sandra Z. (1999). Paul H. Brookes Publishing Company. A mother’s story about raising a daughter with mental retardation. The story goes through all of the stages that a parent deals with when faced with a diagnosis of a child’s disability. Nicole was born in 1955 and there is a postscript to this story since attitudes, opinions and educational opportunities have changed. Sometimes Miracles Hide Carroll, Bruce. (1999). Howard Publishing Company Reflections and letters from parents who are raising a child with a disability. Included with the book is a CD as there is a song “Sometimes Miracles Hide” that the book is centered around. The book has biblical verses and reading included within it. Special Children, Challenged Parents: The Struggles and Rewards of Raising a Child with a Disability Naseef, Robert A. (2001). Paul H. Brookes Publishing Company. Told from a father’s perspective, the book asks and answers those questions that parents who have a child with a disability struggle with on a daily basis. It is a great journal and a good resource guide as well as providing examples for coping, communicating and acknowledging and managing all of those emotions that occur. Tears & Triumphs Dmitriev, Valentine. (1997). Peanut Butter Publishing. The story of an educator who was involved since the late 1950’s in developing strategies for working with children with disabilities. Interesting book in that it details her struggles with her peers to accept the idea that a child with a disability is capable of learning. Uncommon Fathers: Reflections on Raising a Child with a Disability Meyer, Donald J. (1995). Woodbine House. Reflections from fathers who are parents of special needs children. Similar to the experiences and thoughts found in Changed By a Child, but written by fathers. Views From Our Shoes: Growing Up with a Brother or Sister with Special Needs Meyer, Donald, J. (editor) (1997). Woodbine House. Forty-five siblings, ages four to eighteen, share their experiences as the brother or sister of a young person with a disability. They write about the good and the bad aspects and make many thoughtful observances. Ages 9-12. You will Dream New Dreams Klein, Stanley D. and Kim Schive. (2001). Kensington Books. A collection of essays written by parents who have a child with a disability. Three of the essays were written by Omaha parents. ^Back to Top A Very Special Critter Mayer, Gina & Mercer. (1992). Golden Books. Great story about a character who is different but is still one of the group. Be Quiet, Marina! DeBear, Kirsten. (2001). Star Bright Books. Story about a girl with Down syndrome and a girl with cerebral palsy who learn to be friends in spite of their differences. Ages 4-8. Big Brother Dustin Carter, Alden R. (1997). Albert Whitman & Company. Big brother Dustin, who has Down syndrome, is excited about the birth of his younger sister. Ages 4-8. Brothers and Sisters. Dwight, Laura. (2005). Star Bright Books. This book shows different sibling groups in which at least one member has a physical disability. It shows that having a sibling with a disability is not so different from having a sibling without a disability. Children 4 – 8 years of age. Don’t Call Me Special Thomas, Pat. (2002). Barron’s Educational Series, Inc. A great little picture book that explores questions and concerns about children with all types of disabilities. It is a good resource when talking to a group of children about the different types of disabilities and how all children need to work and play together. Has a teacher/leader guide for discussion at the end of the book. Ages 4-8. Dustin’s BIG School Day Carter, Alden R. (1999). Albert Whitman & Company. Dustin is excited to go to school and is waiting for some friends to show up at 2:00. The book shows Dustin during his school day, including resource time. Ages 4-8. Friends at School Bunnett, Rochelle. (1995). Star Bright Books. A typical day at school with a classroom composed of many different children. This book doesn’t emphasize the disabilities of the children, but rather tells about what happens at school. Ages 4-8. Hi, I’m Ben! Bouwkamp, Julie A. (1995). Band of Angels Press. Story told from Ben’s point of view, a child with Down syndrome. Written for the 4-8-year-olds to explain what Down syndrome is, according to Ben. How Many Pizzas? Hale, Natalie. (2002). Special Reads for Special Needs. A book of numbers. I Can, Can You? Pitzer, Marjorie. (2004). Woodbine House. A great book to read to toddlers so that your child can see other children with Down syndrome doing things that your child will be doing. Ages 1-6. Leo the Late Bloomer Kruas, Robert. (1971). Windmill Books. A book about Leo, who does things in his own time, and not when his family thinks he should do things. Let’s Talk About It: Extraordinary Friends Rogers, Fred. (2000). Puffin Books. Great book about challenging stereotypes. Celebrates 6 kids with disabilities. Living With Down Syndrome Bryan, Jenny. (1999). Steck Vaughan Company. A short book explaining in simple terms what Down syndrome is. Different individuals with Down syndrome are spotlighted, as are their daily activities written from 6-10 year olds perspective. Would be great for the classroom, or explaining to older siblings what Down syndrome is. Macaroni and Baloney Hale, Natalie. (2002). Special Reads for Special Needs. Step 3 for teaching reading. My Friend Isabelle Woloson, Eliza. (2003). Woodbine House. Story about two friends without referring to the fact that Isabelle has Down syndrome. The book encourages the reader to think about why friendships are special and how our differences can make the world more interesting. Ages 4-8. Oh Brother! Growing Up with A Special Needs Sibling Hale, Natalie. (2004). Magination Press. Story told by a sister who has a brother with a disability. Easy-to-read, a good read and tells Becca’s story, good and bad, about what she feels like having a brother with special needs. Our Brother Has Down Syndrome. An Introduction for Children Cairo, S. (1985). Firefly Books, Ltd. A book of color photos and text to introduce and explain Down syndrome to young children, especially siblings. It is a personalized account of a young boy, Jai, as told by his two sisters. Ages 4-8. Peanut Butter Party Hale, Natalie. (2002). Special Reads for Special Needs. Step 2 for reading. Radiance Descending Fox, Paula. (1997). DK Publishing Inc. A story about a 6-year-old boy, who doesn’t really care for his brother, who has Down syndrome. He tries to pretend that his brother isn’t a part of his life until a birthday party shows him what a difference his brother has made in other people’s lives. Sort of a hard book to read in that the brother is negative and some of his family members are also negative in talking about the child with Down syndrome. Ages 12-16. So Many Colors: A Book of Colors Hale, Natalie. (2002). Special Reads for Special Needs. Someone Special Just Like You Brown, Tricia (1982) Henry Holt and Company. Story told with pictures that show children with disabilities in everyday settings. Ages 4-8. Spaghetti! Hale, Natalie. (2002). Special Reads for Special Needs. Series of books to guide children into making the association between a concept and a word. Other books include Macaroni and Baloney. Plastic-coated book includes flashcards. A great way to start children reading. Ages 2-10. Special People, Special Ways Maguire, Arlene. (2000). Future Horizons, Inc. Rhyming stories about the differences that children with disabilities have and how important all children are to the world. Ages 4-8. The Magic Violin: A Christmas Gift Mc Spadden, Mary. (2001). Angel Pathways, Inc. The story of a girl with Down syndrome who wants to play the violin whose family doesn’t think she can do so. How she plays a violin and what type of violin it is shows that there are different ways of doing things. Ages 8-12. Veronica’s First Year Rheingrover, Jean Sasso. (1999). Albert Whitman & Co. This book details the first year of life of Veronica, a girl born with Down syndrome. It talks about having sad parents, but all that Veronica is able to do and achieve during her first year, ending the book with her first birthday. Ages 4-8. We’ll Paint the Octopus Red Stuve-Bodeen, Stephanie. (1998). Woodbine House. Told by a young sister who is excited about having a new brother and all of the activities they will do once he is born. When her father comes home sad, with the news that her brother is born with Down syndrome, the girl asks the same questions about what activities they will be able to do. The father states that they will be able to do everything they had planned to do, just at a different time. Ages 4-8. What’s Wrong With Timmy? Shriver, Maria. (2001). Little Brown. Story about an eight-year-old-girl who meets the son of her mother’s friend. Timmy looks different, acts different and talks different. The mother does a good job of explaining what a developmental disability is and how people should focus on what everyone can do, not what the can’t do. The book does a good job, although a bit wordy, when talking about what to do when the young girl’s friends notice a difference. Ages 8-10. ^Back to Top 1,2,3 For you and Me Girnis, Meg. (2001). Albert Whitman & Company. ABC For You and Me Girnis, Meg. (2000). Albert Whitman & Company. Buddy’s Shadow Becker, Shirley. (1992). Jason & Nordic Publisher. Cookie Kneeland, Linda. (1992). Jason & Nordic Publisher. How About A Hug Holcomb, Nana. (1992). Jason & Nordic Publisher. Russ & The Almost Perfect Day Reckert, Janet Elizabeth. (2001). Woodbine House. Russ & The Apple Tree Surprise Reckert, Janet Elizabeth. (1999). Woodbine House. Russ & The Firehouse Reckert, Janet Elizabeth. (2001). Woodbine House. Thumbs Up, Rico! Testa, Maria. (1994). Concept Books. We Can Do It! Dwight, Laura. (1998). Star Bright Books. Where’s Chimpy? Rabe, Bernice. (1998). Albert Whitman and Company. ^Back to Top A Promising Future Together Video Five-minute overview of Down syndrome and the offerings the NDSC can bring to a family. Changing Lives: Down Syndrome & The Health Care Professional Video Ten-minute video geared towards health care professionals and educating them about Down syndrome. Great tool to use for those professionals who are not aware of health concerns, etc. when dealing with a child with Down syndrome. Published by NDSS as a part of their “Changing Lives” curriculum. Down Syndrome the First 18 Months DVD Written, produced and directed by Will Schermerhorn. It is broken up into sections about newborns, health concerns, therapies and new expectations. Included is a series of interviews with parents including Omaha’s own Beth and Dave Hesselink. Great for information and concerns for the new child and parents. Dreams Video Three minute video with different people with Down syndrome talking about their hopes and dreams. Published by NDSS. It would be a great video to use for parents groups, professionals, school administrators, etc. Everyone Counts: Teaching Acceptance & Inclusion Holcomb, Nana. (1992). Jason & Nordic Publisher. Life Goes On. The Complete First Season. Set of DVDs from the first season of this show which had an actor with Down syndrome in one of the lead roles. Russ & The Almost Perfect Day Published: July 20, 2005. The National Down Syndrome Society's new curriculum, Everyone Counts: Teaching Acceptance and Inclusion, is now available for educators in grades K-6 nationwide to teach the values of diversity and the acceptance and inclusion of individuals with Down syndrome and other cognitive disabilities. One Vision, One Voice: The National Down Syndrome Society Video Five-minute overview of Down syndrome and the offerings that NDSS can bring to a family. ^Back to Top Guiandose Por La Intrincada Senda De La Educacion Especial Anderson, Winifred Stephen Chiwrood and Deidre Harden. (1999). Woodbine House. Spanish Edition. Pasps Hacia Una Fida Indsependiete Baker, Brude L. and Alan J. Brightman. (1997). Paul H. Brookes Publishing Company. ^Back to Top Blake Extra Extra!