Celebrating Families

parents holding newborn

This topical guide will introduce you to important books, videos, and information resources available from the EI Clearinghouse and other sources. Contact us via online form or by phone (1-877-275-3227) to request a resource listed below (or ask your local public librarian). Note that some videos may be viewed online, and journal titles will take you to the publisher’s homepage.

Books for Parents

  • Autism in heels : the untold story of a female life on the spectrum by Jennifer Cook
  • Beyond the diagnosis : the path to thriving as a special needs parent by Amy Mattson
  • Bloom: a memoir by Kelle Hampton
  • The journal of best practices : a memoir of marriage and Asperger syndrome, and one man’s quest to be a better husband by David Finch
  • The perfect child for us by Linda Sprague Pappas
  • The Warner boys: our family’s story of autism and hope by Ana and Curt Warner
  • An uncomplicated life : a father’s memoir of his exceptional daughter by Paul Daugherty

Books for Children

  • Can bears ski? by Raymond Antrobus
  • Meeting Mimi: a story about different abilities by Francie Dolan
  • Rescue & Jessica : a life-changing friendship by Jessica Kensky
  • We’re all wonders by R.J. Palacio

Detailed borrowing information for these books can be found below.

EIC Resources

Family Stories
This collection of short vignettes describe families’ experiences in Illinois early intervention. Readers can learn about the EI team, advocating for your child, and the importance of connecting with the right resources.

EIC Article

  • Family Reading Time
    Infants and toddlers learn so much from being read to. Make it a routine to read to your child every day, if you can.
Publication date: 2023