Finding, Selecting, and Using Children's Books to Promote Inclusion and Equity for Students with Disabilities

Teachers, school psychologists, parents, and students often read books featuring characters with autism and other developmental disabilities—sometimes without considering authentic portrayals. Participants will have hands-on opportunities to read, evaluate, and discuss several picture books considered for the 2026 Dolly Gray Award. A drawing for free books will be held.Participants will be able to: 1. Navigate the new Dolly Gray Award website to identify books being considered for the 2026 Dolly Gray Children’s Literature Award. 2. Select titles relevant to their experiences, such as those featuring characters with diverse developmental disabilities, gender identities, and racial or cultural backgrounds. 3. While using the Quality Characterizations Rating Scale, evaluate key considerations for selecting—or rejecting—books for use in classrooms and homes.