.png)
After working closely with families navigating Developmental Language Disorder (DLD), we know how powerful the right book can be. Books can explain DLD in ways children understand, help parents feel less alone, and give clinicians/teachers tools to support learners with language difficulties. That’s why we’ve curated this list of the best DLD books for families — stories and guides that make the journey easier, more hopeful, and deeply connected.
Why DLD Books Matter for Families
DLD affects around 1 in 14 children, yet awareness is still limited. Families often tell us they feel isolated or unsure where to start. Books written for children with DLD, or for families supporting them, are vital because they:
- Help children feel understood and less alone
- Provide relatable role models through stories
- Equip parents and carers with strategies to support their child
- Raise awareness and empathy among peers and educators
At The DLD Project, we are passionate about amplifying resources that make life easier and brighter for children with DLD and their families.
Top DLD Books for Families
Harry’s Story by Kate Kempton
Harry’s journey shows children that they are so much more than their diagnosis. This engaging DLD book highlights strengths and resilience while gently explaining what DLD is. Paired with a user guide for adults, it gives parents, carers, and teachers supportive tools and strategies.
Available on Amazon
DLD: Why Can’t You SEE ME? by Shelbi Annison
Written by author, digital creator, RADLD advocate and person with DLD Shelbi Annison, this DLD book provides a lived-experience perspective on what it’s like to grow up with DLD. Shelbi’s insights help children, families, and educators better understand the invisible struggles behind communication challenges.
Find it on Amazon
DLD and Me by Anna Sowerbutts & Amanda Finer
This practical 12-week programme helps children and young people explore what DLD is, understand their own communication strengths, and develop strategies for everyday life. It includes worksheets, visual resources, and home sheets — making it ideal for families, teachers, and therapists working together.
Learn more at DLD and Me
The Living Life with Developmental Language Disorder Series (by Empowered DLD Parenting)
Including Dan and the Paper Airplane and Dan and Daria Make Friends, this wonderful DLD book series follows Dan and Daria, two children with DLD, as they learn to understand their diagnosis, self-advocate, and raise awareness. These stories explore challenges like:
- Getting words out
- Managing social anxiety
- Friendship struggles
- Keeping up in conversations
Through everyday adventures, the series empowers kids to see that they’re not alone, while giving parents practical insights into how to support them. Learn more: Living Life with DLD
mEET dld by Loren Crisp
A gentle and accessible introduction to DLD, this book is perfect for children who are beginning to understand their diagnosis. With clear explanations and friendly illustrations, it helps children and their peers develop awareness and acceptance.
Oscar finds the Treasure by Julie Alison McDonald
Designed for parents, carers, and teachers to read with children, this DLD book helps young people with language difficulties, including DLD, feel seen and supported. Oscar’s adventure encourages resilience and offers gentle guidance for navigating communication challenges.
How Families Can Use These DLD Books
- Read together: Create moments of connection by reading DLD books with your child.
- Open conversations: Use the books to explain DLD to siblings, friends, or teachers.
- Revisit often: Kids may relate to different parts of a story as they grow and face new challenges.
- Share with schools: Give teachers a copy to raise awareness in the classroom.
Go Beyond Reading
At The DLD Project, we also encourage families to:
- Read this great guest blog by the team at Little Birdie Books on how to maximise reading time with your children.
- Host a Tea for DLD to spread awareness
- Access our online courses for practical learning
- Explore our resources and strategies to complement the books above
DLD books can make a big difference
These DLD books for families are more than just stories — they are lifelines. They help children feel represented, give parents tools and confidence, and raise awareness in schools and communities. From Dan and Daria’s adventures to Harry’s Story and DLD and Me, every book on this list plays a role in empowering families.
If you’re a parent, teacher, or carer, we encourage you to explore these titles, share them widely, and use them as stepping stones to deeper understanding. Together, we can help every child with DLD feel seen, supported, and celebrated.
Did we miss a DLD book that you love?
If you know of a great DLD book that is perfect for families, we would love to hear from you! Please email us at connect@thedldproject.com with your recommendations.
Let your DLD author shine
One thing we know about many people with DLD is that they can be very creative. Be sure to encourage creative pursuits where possible. Noone tells the story of DLD better than the lived experience of people with DLD and their families.
Discover more resources at The DLD Project
The post Best DLD Books for Families | Support Children with Developmental Language Disorder appeared first on The DLD Project.
Abonnez-vous à l’infolettre
Soyez notifié en temps réel des nouvelles du monde orthophonique.
