Ian's Walk: A Story about Autism
What’s inside...
Julie is excited to go to the park and feed the ducks with her big sister, Tara. However, she is hesitant about bringing her little brother, Ian, who has autism. Throughout the day, Ian reacts differently to the surroundings compared to his sisters, and Julie feels embarrassed by his behavior. But when Ian gets lost, Julie is forced to try to understand the world from his perspective in order to find him. In the process, she realizes how much she cares for her brother.
Age
3-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Julie
Ian
Tara
Discussion points
How do you think Ian feels when he reacts differently to the things around him?
What are some ways Julie could help Ian enjoy their walk together?
Why is it important for us to understand and respect how others experience the world?
Can you think of a time when you felt different from others? How did that make you feel?
How can we show kindness and support to people who might experience the world differently than us?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the discussion by reflecting on each character’s feelings and behaviors, encouraging empathy and deeper understanding.
Use real-life examples or situations your child might have encountered that relate to the themes in the book to make the discussion more relatable.
Acknowledge and validate your child’s feelings as they express their thoughts on the book’s themes, fostering a safe environment for open conversation.
Encourage your child to think of ways they can be inclusive and supportive of others, solidifying the book’s messages through actionable ideas.
Highlight the strong bond between the siblings despite their differences, emphasizing the value of acceptance and patience in relationships.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding and acceptance of differences
Explanation: The story portrays Ian, a child with autism, through the eyes of his sister, who learns to appreciate Ian’s unique way of experiencing the world.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to embrace individual differences in their peers, promoting inclusivity and empathy in real-world social interactions.
Example Lesson: Patience and empathy
Explanation: Julie, Ian's sister, exhibits patience and empathy as she tries to see the world from Ian's perspective, especially when he behaves differently from what she expects.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to practice patience and try to understand why others might act differently, fostering a more empathetic approach towards peers with different needs.
Example Lesson: Family bonds and support
Explanation: The book highlights the strength of familial relationships, showing how Julie and her mother adapt their plans to accommodate Ian’s needs during their walk.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of supporting family members, understanding their habits and creating an environment where everyone feels valued and included.
Example Lesson: Observation and discovery
Explanation: Ian’s unique interaction with his surroundings, like listening to the ducks and touching the bricks, helps Julie see details she usually overlooks.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to be more observant and appreciate the smaller details in their environment, enhancing their sensory experiences and cognitive skills.