Inclusion? That's a story for all of us. In the words of Simon Wiggle, "I just love the concept of different brains because it normalises everything".
The Brain Forest is a fun and engaging children's book written by neurodivergent child psychologist Sandhya Menon that teaches children about neurodiversity, including neurotypical brains, autism, ADHD, dyslexia, anxiety, and more-in language that builds understanding without pathologizing difference. Unlike books that focus only on "acceptance," The Brain Forest acknowledges real challenges while centering strengths, helping children develop positive neurodivergent identity from an early age.
Parents report that this made starting a conversation about diagnosis so much easier due to the neutrality of this book, where children self identify and go "THAT'S ME!".
The Brain Forest has become an integral conversation-starter all around the world on building awareness of differences and building an inclusive, strengths-based society from a young age.
Through gentle storytelling and stunning illustrations, follow a mother and son as they discover the many ways brains can grow: some fast, some slow, some that love routine, and some that say NO!
Ideal for:
- Parents explaining their neurodivergence to children (ages 5-10)
- Parents talking about neurodiversity to build awareness in children (aged 5 to 10)
- Educators building inclusive classrooms
- Therapists and psychologists working with neurodivergent kids
- Families seeking positive identity-building resources
- Anyone wanting to teach children about brain differences with compassion and accuracy
About the Author :
Sandhya Menon (she/her) is a neurodivergent paediatric psychologist of the Autistic/ADHDer/Synesthete flavour. She has worked with autistic children and their families for over 14 years across a range of presentations and support needs. Sandhya longs to bring high-quality, neuroaffirming narratives into the conversation, that help children - and adults alike! - have a simple way of accessing positive identity in ways that don't dismiss their co-occurring challenges.Aaaand what better way to do this than with books? So very apt given she used to be the kind of girl who would sneak away from a party to read a book in a quiet corner somewhere.
Review :
"I love this book. It's such a simple and positive introduction to neurodivergence. I was struggling to figure out how to talk to my son about his diagnosis that would create understanding and not trigger shame or a sense of being problematically different. As we read he was calmer than he had been in any other conversation that we've had around the subject.I was struggling to figure out how to talk to my son about his diagnosis without triggering shame. At some point I pointed to a tree and said 'this is my kind of brain.' Without anxiety he pointed to another and said 'this is mine.' It was so heartwarming." - Jamiz
"What an incredible resource! A beautifully written and illustrated book that made it a joy to share with the young people I work with!" - Loren. W
"Wonderful! Love the language used/my 7 yo could understand and thoroughly enjoy this book! Great that dual diagnosis was included. Sandhya is a treasure I have learnt so much from her" - Bec. F
"Highly recommended! This is one of the best books I've ever seen for explaining this to kids in a way that is clear, embracing of all, and neurodiversity-affirming. Thank you for writing this incredible resource! I want every child in the world to read it!" - Lauren D.
