What does it mean to be a good friend to someone who is different from you?

This is a discussion prompt for Friends with Special Needs by Fred Rogers. Use it to spark conversation with your child after reading.

Can you think of ways we can help everyone feel included and welcome?

This is a discussion prompt for Friends with Special Needs by Fred Rogers. Use it to spark conversation with your child after reading.

What are some special things about you that make you unique?

This is a discussion prompt for Friends with Special Needs by Fred Rogers. Use it to spark conversation with your child after reading.

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Friends with Special Needs

Name: Friends with Special Needs
ISBN: 9780399231476

by Fred Rogers

Fred Rogers helps children understand and embrace physical and mental differences, fostering empathy and friendship toward peers with special needs.

About This Book

Discusses ways to get to know more about people who are different because of various handicaps.

Concepts

Empathy & Kindness Friendship & Loyalty Loneliness & Belonging Self-Confidence & Identity Curiosity & Wonder Justice & Fairness Being Different Making Friends Friendship & Social

Wonderlit Review

Fred Rogers, with his signature gentle approach, offers a foundational text for discussing disabilities and inclusion with young children. The book aims to demystify differences, encouraging curiosity and understanding rather than fear or avoidance. It provides a warm, accessible entry point for parents and educators to initiate conversations about empathy and how to interact respectfully with peers who have special needs. While the data is sparse, the title and author strongly suggest a focus on kindness and acceptance. This book is ideal for children aged 4-8 who are beginning to notice differences in others or for those who may feel different themselves. It's a perfect read-aloud to foster an inclusive mindset.