Many kids with disabilities enjoy reading graphic novels. Here are some of the top reasons why.
Are you looking for books to boost your child’s interest in reading? Of course, many kinds, or genres, are on the book shelves. Some people love to read mysteries; some love to read history. Many children and teens with disabilities love graphic novels.
- Graphic novels provide lots of picture prompts.
- The pictures show step by step what is happening.
- The text in graphic novels is short and sweet.
- It is clear from the dialog balloons exactly who is speaking.
- The slap stick humor in many graphic novels appeals to the sense of humor.
- Graphic novels look cool.
What kind of graphic novels are available?
- Beginning readers (such as those published in the Phonics Comics series by Innovative Kids)
- Picture storybooks in graphic novel format
- True comic books
- Classics and other books rewritten into graphic novel format
What other kinds of books are good reads for children with reading disabilities?
- Any of the numerous learn-to-read series that are on the market
- Books with repeating text
- Books with a strong connection between the pictures and the words
- Beginning chapter books
- Hi/lo books (high interest level/low reading skill required)
Activities to Encourage Disabled Children to Read
- Listen to parents read
- Read with a parent (taking turns for every other page)
- Joining a library book club
- Reading books for prizes at school (theme park tickets, free fast food, school prizes)
- Reading to a younger sibling, a doll, a pet, etc.
And . . . the number one way to encourage children with disabilities to read is to let them see YOU reading!
