📚 Top Picks Thursday: Children's Book Recommendations

At NEST, we love stories that spark conversations, build understanding, and reflect the diversity of young minds.

This Top Picks Thursday, our team is sharing a few of their favourite children’s books that celebrate and explore neurodiversity, emotions, and how young people experience the world.

These picks come from personal experience — stories we’ve loved, shared, and seen resonate with the families we support.

🌳 The Brain Forest by Sandhya Menon

Celine’s Pick: A beautifully illustrated book that introduces children to the brain's many "trees" — each representing different ways of thinking and feeling. It's gentle, inclusive, and perfect for sparking early conversations about how all brains grow in their own way.

🧠 Neurodiversity! What’s That? by Nadne Ramina Arthur

Clare’s Pick: A bright and engaging introduction to the concept of neurodiversity for younger children. It’s ideal for classrooms and families looking to build understanding and acceptance from the start.

🐶 All Dogs Have ADHD by Kathy Hoopmann

David’s Pick: Using adorable dog photography and relatable language, this book makes ADHD accessible and affirming for kids and adults alike. Funny, warm, and validating — a great conversation starter.

🎒 The Huge Bag of Worries by Virginia Ironside

Carla’s Pick: This classic picture book gently explores anxiety and emotional overwhelm. A helpful tool for kids learning to name and manage their worries, and for grown-ups wanting to support them.

🐉 A Dragon With ADHD by Steve Herman

Alison’s Pick: This fun and lively story helps children understand the ups and downs of ADHD through the eyes of a dragon learning to manage his energy and focus. It’s reassuring, empowering, and full of heart.

📌 For full details, previews, or to listen to some of these books read aloud, please visit the link in our description.

🔹 Disclaimer: These recommendations are based on our team’s personal experiences and insights. They are not officially endorsed by NHS Ayrshire & Arran.