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Filipino Children’s Books on Disability, Neurodiversity & Aging (3/3)

These Filipino children’s books clearly center disability and neurodiversity, helping young readers recognize difference not as deficit, but as part of human diversity.

1. Made Perfect in Weakness

by Didith Rodrigo

This is the story of Rosel Ambubuyog who triumphs despite being blind. Grounded in faith and perseverance, the book affirms that disability does not diminish worth or potential, and that strength can emerge through vulnerability.

2. Kiko Kitikiti

by Lauren Macaraeg

Kiko is a boy with ADHD whose hyperactive body becomes a source of help rather than trouble. The story reframes movement, energy, and impulsivity as strengths when guided with understanding and compassion.

3. Tara na, Itok

by Cora Dandan Albano

Itok is a fish with half a tail, navigating the world differently from others. Through gentle metaphor, the book speaks about physical disability, self-belief, and the courage to keep moving forward.

4. There’s a Dwende in My Brother’s Soup

by Lara Saguisag

A child uses folklore and imagination to explain a sibling’s autism. Beneath the playful premise is a thoughtful portrayal of confusion, fear, and growing empathy within a family learning to understand neurodivergence.

5. Federico by Eugene Evasco

A poetic and tender story about living with a sibling who has Down syndrome. Federico focuses on relationship and care, inviting readers to slow down and recognize beauty in difference and interdependence.

These stories do something powerful:

They name disability openly, without reducing children to it. They invite understanding, not pity. They make space for care, dignity, and belonging.

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Filipino Children’s Books on Disability, Neurodiversity & Aging (2/2)

Here is part 2 of my growing list of inclusive Filipino reads. These titles open gentle, meaningful conversations about emotions, different ways of thinking, and the realities of aging. Perfect for homes, classrooms, and libraries.

1. Pitong Tsinelas (Seven Slippers) by Divine Gil Reyes & Benjor Catindig

A playful, bilingual story where each slipper represents a feeling. A wonderful tool for social-emotional learning and for supporting children who express emotions in diverse or nonverbal ways.

2. Inside Daniel’s Head by Joji Reynes-Santos

A tender peek into the inner world of a child who processes thoughts, sensations, and interests differently. A powerful starting point for conversations about neurodiversity, perspective-taking, and acceptance.

3. Sixty Six (Book 1 & 2) by Russell Molina, Ian Sta. Maria & Mikey Marchan

A graphic novel series that reframes aging and physical limitation through humor, heart, and heroism. Not a children’s book, but a meaningful addition to discussions on inclusion—showing that age is part of our diversity story too.

These stories remind us that every mind, body, and journey matters.

Let’s keep building bookshelves that reflect empathy, dignity, and the many ways we move through the world.

#Bibliotherapy #readingmatters #phchildrensliterature #InternationalDayofPersonswithDisabilities