Books for Kids Prenatal Substance Exposure, Autism, or ADHD

Neurodiversity, FASD, ADHD, Autism, and more

Featured Books


My FASD Feelings: A Guide to Children’s Experience with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders

In this fully illustrated children’s book, young Henry learns about his FASD diagnosis and the challenges he faces at school. Through conversations with his parents, Henry also discovers his strengths and abilities. Designed to spark FASD-specific dialogue, the book helps children and families talk openly about struggles, resilience, and hope. A discussion guide with FAQs, tips, and resources makes this a valuable tool for parents, caregivers, and educators supporting children with FASD.


The Way I Am is Different

Told from the perspective of a third grader with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder, this illustrated story shares his school struggles and the ways support from family, friends, and teachers helps him succeed. The message is clear: being “different” is okay, and no one is alone. Written by an adoptee diagnosed with FASD at age 11, the book offers a rare personal perspective and reflects the author’s mission to educate and empower others living with FASD.


A Walk in the Rain with a Brain

In this colorfully illustrated story, Lucy meets Fred the brain, who shows her that every brain is unique. Together they discover that kids learn and think in different ways—and each has special talents. Written by ADHD expert Dr. Edward Hallowell, this engaging book reassures children that being different is okay. A parent and educator discussion guide is included, making it a great tool to support neurodiverse kids. Best for ages 4–9.


More Great Books


Be Different, Dare to Be

Written by an adoptee diagnosed with FASD, this uplifting book celebrates the many ways brains work and learn, including those with FASD, Autism, or ADHD. With warmth and encouragement, it reminds readers that different brains are beautiful brains. A great resource to help kids embrace neurodiversity and see their strengths.


Hugs for Teens with FASD: A Book of Encouragement

Written by a mother and advocate for her children with FASD, this book speaks directly to teens and young adults living with the disorder. It’s filled with relatable quotes, encouragement, and practical ideas to help them process emotions and navigate daily challenges. A supportive guide to remind young people with FASD that they are not alone.


They Call Me CAT

This 3-part story follows Joshua, a transracial adoptee prenatally exposed to alcohol, as he and his family navigate the lifelong impacts of undiagnosed FASD. Joshua wrestles with identity, relationships, and the challenges of adolescence, while his family builds a circle of support around him. A moving story of survival, love, and hope, it’s an honest look at adoption and FASD, recommended for both adults and young adult readers.


The Kids’ Guide to Staying Awesome and In Control

This engaging children’s book helps kids with emotional or sensory processing challenges learn self-regulation skills—whether from prenatal substance exposure or other neurodiverse conditions. With cartoon-style illustrations, it introduces calming strategies like breathing exercises, pressure holds, fidgets, and noise-reducing headphones. Parents and teachers will find helpful tips, charts, and checklists to track progress. Designed for ages 5–12 (with adult guidance), it’s a fun, practical resource to help kids feel calm, confident, and in control.


Impulsive Ninja

This fun, elementary-age book follows Impulsive Ninja as he learns to manage blurting out, interrupting, risk-taking, and other impulsive behaviors. With the help of his “superpower,” he discovers healthy ways to respond to frustration, anger, and criticism. Part of a social-emotional learning series, it’s a practical, kid-friendly tool to build self-control and essential life skills.


Little Heroes

Suzie’s Story is the first comic in a series about a little girl living with FASD after prenatal alcohol exposure. Geared for ages four and up, it uses everyday examples to show brain-based struggles and includes activity pages for kids. A parent guide offers background on FASD, making this a great resource to start conversations with children and to inform siblings, family, educators, and friends.


Learning To Slow Down and Pay Attention: A Book for Kids About ADHD

This friendly guide helps kids and teens make sense of their ADHD. It’s full of simple tips for focusing, remembering, getting along with friends, and even calming down when things feel overwhelming. Written with kids in mind, it explains why they might act or feel different and shows them ways to feel more in control. A great tool for parents to read alongside their child to spark conversations and build confidence.


Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder: Understanding Mental Health

This teen-friendly book explains FASD in clear, easy-to-understand language with illustrations and graphics that make it relatable. It covers the mental, behavioral, and physical challenges of FASD, along with the latest research and strategies for managing tough behaviors. A great resource for teens living with an FASD diagnosis—or for siblings and foster siblings who want to better understand and support a loved one.


Riley the Brave

Riley, the cape-wearing bear cub, helps kids face fears, manage big feelings, and handle tough transitions. This engaging series is perfect for elementary-aged children who’ve had a hard start in life or struggle with sensory and emotional challenges. Each book includes helpful tips for grown-ups, and activity books are also available for parents, counselors, and educators. Spanish editions also available!


FASD Is My Super Power

Written by self-advocate Emily Hargrove, diagnosed with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome at age one, this booklet is a hopeful and practical resource for kids ages eight and up to read with a parent or caregiver. It combines information, journal prompts, and reflection activities to encourage social-emotional growth. Highlighting strengths and setting goals, it helps children better understand their diagnosis while looking toward the future with confidence and hope.


Masterpiece: An Inclusive Kids’ Book Celebrating a Child on the Autism Spectrum

Masterpiece tells the story of Samuel, a boy on the autism spectrum whose unique way of seeing the world shines through an art project. With colorful illustrations—including details like noise-cancelling headphones—this award-winning picture book teaches empathy, inclusion, and self-acceptance. A wonderful read-aloud for classrooms or families, it celebrates every child’s gifts and encourages kids to embrace what makes them special. Suitable for all ages, Masterpiece is both inspiring and beautifully illustrated.


All My Stripes: A Story for Children with Autism

Zane the zebra sometimes feels different, worried his classmates only see his “autism stripe” instead of his curiosity, honesty, or kindness. With gentle guidance from his mama, Zane learns to embrace all of his stripes—including autism—as part of what makes him special. This award-winning story helps kids on the spectrum (and their peers) celebrate differences, while offering parents and caregivers a helpful reading guide, background on autism, and practical tips for support.


Neurodivergent Ninja: A Children’s Book About the GIfts of Neurodiversity

Neurodivergent Ninja introduces kids to the challenges and strengths of neurodiversity in a way that’s both fun and empowering. Part of the Ninja Life Hacks series, this book uses pint-sized, witty characters to help children ages 4–10 learn valuable life skills while embracing differences. With humor that appeals to kids and adults alike, it’s a great tool for parents, teachers, and counselors to spark conversations about acceptance, resilience, and understanding.


The Abilities in Me: Autism

This colorful picture book introduces young readers to life with autism through the everyday experiences of a young girl and boy. Designed for children ages 3–8, it encourages kindness, understanding, and inclusion. As part of The Abilities in Me series, the story celebrates each child’s strengths while building awareness and acceptance. A warm, engaging resource for parents and teachers alike. Also in this series are “The Abilities in Me: ADHD,” “The Abilities in Me: Sensory Processing Disorder,” and more.

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