How to introduce books to children with SPD
My youngest son, Tom, was born at 28 weeks. He has recently been diagnosed with Sensory Processing Disorder. He doesn't play well with others, he doesn't watch TV and he doesn't read books. As a picture book author, this just about breaks my heart. So, I have been working with his OT and his daycare to find some age appropriate, sensory friendly ways to help him discover and embrace the magic of books.
Firstly, the size of the book bothers him, bigger is not always better. He will open the book to a page but won't allow or initiate page turning. He doesn't like being read to with the book in front of him, but will listen if I am behind.
The best thing I have found is making small flash cards using illustrations from books about things he recognises. Although photocopies of books are illegal, being its my book and I asked the illustrator for permission, it should be ok. They are small enough for him to hold in one hand, mounted on black cardboard and without much white space. He picks them up and I turn to the corresponding page of the book. Our record reading time is 2 minutes 40 seconds, we are working on it.
Flash cards have been used for non-verbal children for a long time and I feel they also have a place for children with SPD. I hope publishers can offer more books with corresponding flash cards for special needs children so they can also develop a life long love of reading.
If you would like any flash cards for my books, please contact me and I will be sure to pass on our request to my publishers. It only takes a small movement of like minded people to make the world a better place.
Talk soonX Michelle www.michelleworthington.com www.michelleworthington.com
Firstly, the size of the book bothers him, bigger is not always better. He will open the book to a page but won't allow or initiate page turning. He doesn't like being read to with the book in front of him, but will listen if I am behind.
The best thing I have found is making small flash cards using illustrations from books about things he recognises. Although photocopies of books are illegal, being its my book and I asked the illustrator for permission, it should be ok. They are small enough for him to hold in one hand, mounted on black cardboard and without much white space. He picks them up and I turn to the corresponding page of the book. Our record reading time is 2 minutes 40 seconds, we are working on it.
Flash cards have been used for non-verbal children for a long time and I feel they also have a place for children with SPD. I hope publishers can offer more books with corresponding flash cards for special needs children so they can also develop a life long love of reading.
If you would like any flash cards for my books, please contact me and I will be sure to pass on our request to my publishers. It only takes a small movement of like minded people to make the world a better place.
Talk soonX Michelle www.michelleworthington.com www.michelleworthington.com
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