Our Sensory Family Books & Product Ideas: April 2024

children enjoying looking at books

Every month we put together an assortment of books and sensory product ideas covering all ages. This month’s selection is focused specifically on books and products to help support neurodivergent family members with sensory sensitivities.

We hope you enjoy this month's selection!  

Books

Marching to a Different Beat: A family's journey with autism

This book* by Sarah Ziegel recounts her true story spanning over two decades of how she brought up her four autistic boys - from their diagnosis age two to the thriving young adults they are now.

Everyone with autism is unique. Everyone has their own talents. This book illustrates how this family exceeded all expectations to live their best lives.


The Adventures of Rose and Whizzle

Ideal for children aged 4-10, this book* is a wonderful story, narrated by Katie Simons, a neurodivergent Occupational Therapist who specialises in sensory integration and mental health, to support neurodivergent children and adults. The story follows the journey of Rose and Whizzle as they explore the cosmopolitan town of Diversi Valley. This neuro-affirming story expertly weaves essential strategies into the narrative, empowering children to embrace their uniqueness and imagination while learning to navigate real-world situations.

Square Me, Round World: Stories of growing up in a world not built for you

Written by Chelsea Luker, an autistic/ADHDer psychologist from NSW, Australia and with over 50 illustrations by Eliza Fricker, this book* is an illuminating collection of short stories that delve into the distinctive experiences of those who navigate life feeling like square pegs in a world of round holes. From social challenges to sensory differences, this book aims to foster greater empathy, understanding, and a drive for a more inclusive world. The book also comes with a discussion guide which makes it a useful resource for parents.

Girl Unmasked: How Uncovering My Autism Saved My Life

To the outside world, Emily looks like a typical girl, with a normal family, living an ordinary life. But inside, Emily does not feel typical, and the older she gets, the more she realises that she is different. As she finally discovers when she is 16, Emily is autistic. This book* is the extraordinary story of how she got there - and how she very nearly didn't.

In this simple but powerful memoir, Emily tells her real life story of living in a loving and supportive family, who learn with Emily to understand the difference of being autistic, in a neurotypical world. We also see how post-diagnosis, Emily came to understand her authentic self and began to turn her life around, eventually becoming a mental health nurse with a desire to help others where she herself had once been failed.

A Kind of Spark

This book* by Ellie McNicoll tells the story of 11-year-old Addie as she campaigns for a memorial in memory of the witch trials that took place in her Scottish hometown. Addie knows there's more to the story of these 'witches', just like there is more to hers. Can Addie challenge how the people in her town see her, and her autism, and make her voice heard? 

Products

Sensory Beanbag

These beanbags* are crafted with a random selection of different textured and coloured fabrics, perfect for children who seek out tactile stimulation and sensory input.

Sensory Fidget Tubes

These Sensory Fidget Tubes offer children a soothing visual distraction to help them focus and calm down. They have been specially developed for children and are easy for little hands to grip and the tubes are permanently sealed. Each set contains four tubes that all have a unique mesmerising motion: soothing gravity spinner, fantastic fidget tube, calming glitter tube and magical reverse hourglass.

Wriggle Stool

This wriggle stool is a great seating solution for children who like to wriggle on their seats and who are constantly seeking out movement.

Short Sleeve Sensory Friendly Top

This clothing range available from Sensory Smart Store, a SIE preferred supplier, has been designed by a qualified SENCO and mum with the sensory needs of her son with autism and ADHD in mind, to provide him – and your child - with clothes that are fun and trendy yet sensory friendly. 

This short sleeve top has no labels, adapted comfort seams sewn with soft threads and an image the wearer cannot feel.

*Affiliate link: Sensory Help Now may earn a commission (at zero cost to you) when you purchase by clicking on an affiliate link. 

NB: Sensory Help Now is not responsible for the content on external websites. Sharing a resource does not imply endorsement by Sensory Help Now.