Wonderfully Wired Brains: An Introduction to the World of Neurodiversity
What’s inside...
Wonderfully Wired Brains: An Introduction to the World of Neurodiversity by Louise Gooding provides an informative and compassionate exploration into the world of neurodiversity. It covers conditions like autism, ADHD, and dyslexia, explaining their strengths and challenges. Targeted at children aged 7-9, the book promotes acceptance and understanding of neurodiverse individuals by showcasing their unique abilities, introducing advocates who challenge stereotypes, and debunking myths. The book uses accurate explanations, colorful illustrations, and an inclusive approach to make neurodiversity accessible to a broad audience. It emphasizes the importance of embracing everyone's unique qualities through a combination of experiences, science, and facts.
Age
7-9
Length
96 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think makes everyone's brain unique?
How did learning about different kinds of brains make you feel about yourself and others?
Can you think of a time when understanding someone else's perspective helped you get along better?
Why do you think it's important to learn about neurodiversity?
Which character’s story did you find most interesting, and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use personal stories to connect with the themes in the book. Share your own experiences or observations about how different people can think and learn.
Encourage empathy by asking your child to consider how they would feel in the situations presented in the book.
Highlight the strengths of various characters in the book, discussing how diverse abilities can be a source of innovation and creativity.
Validate your child’s feelings and thoughts as they express them, showing that all perspectives are valuable in a discussion about diversity.
Relate the content of the book to real-life situations or current events to make the concepts more tangible and relevant.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding and embracing differences
Explanation: The book introduces the concept of neurodiversity, illustrating how every brain is unique and functions differently.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and respect their own abilities as well as those of their peers, promoting inclusivity in everyday interactions.
Example Lesson: Empathy and compassion
Explanation: Through stories and examples of various neurodiverse individuals, children are taught to understand and empathize with people who may think or behave differently.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to be kind and supportive, improving their social skills and relationships at school and in other social settings.
Example Lesson: Self-acceptance
Explanation: The book highlights the importance of self-awareness and acceptance, showing that everyone has their own strengths and challenges.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by recognizing their unique qualities and feeling confident in their self-identity, contributing to healthier self-esteem.
Example Lesson: Resilience
Explanation: Characters in the book encounter challenges due to their neurological differences but learn to navigate them successfully.
Real-World Application: Children learn that facing difficulties is a part of life and that perseverance and resilience are key to overcoming obstacles.
Example Lesson: Importance of support systems
Explanation: The narrative showcases how friends, family, and educators play a vital role in supporting neurodiverse individuals.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of seeking help and supporting others, fostering a sense of community and teamwork.