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When We Play: Understanding Autism Through the Joy of Play
Where Every Way of Playing Belongs
When We Play is a heartwarming children’s picture book that follows two neurodivergent siblings as they explore the different ways they engage with the world through play.
From lining up trains and spinning in chairs to sharing quiet time side by side, this story celebrates all the ways children express themselves, especially when those ways don’t always look the same. With joyful illustrations, sensory-aware moments, and a strong message of acceptance, When We Play reminds readers that connection doesn’t require sameness—it just involves acceptance.
Perfect for parents, educators, therapists, and caregivers, this inclusive book opens the door to meaningful conversations about neurodiversity, sensory differences, and sibling bonds.
Neurodiversity & inclusionSensory play and emotional expressionSibling relationshipsAcceptance and understandingIdeal for children aged 2-6, When We Play is perfect for classroom read-alouds or bedtime reflection.
When We Play is a heartwarming children’s picture book that follows two neurodivergent siblings as they explore the different ways they engage with the world through play.
From lining up trains and spinning in chairs to sharing quiet time side by side, this story celebrates all the ways children express themselves, especially when those ways don’t always look the same. With joyful illustrations, sensory-aware moments, and a strong message of acceptance, When We Play reminds readers that connection doesn’t require sameness—it just involves acceptance.
Perfect for parents, educators, therapists, and caregivers, this inclusive book opens the door to meaningful conversations about neurodiversity, sensory differences, and sibling bonds.
Neurodiversity & inclusionSensory play and emotional expressionSibling relationshipsAcceptance and understandingIdeal for children aged 2-6, When We Play is perfect for classroom read-alouds or bedtime reflection.
- GenresChildrens
33 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 9, 2025
3 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
February 15, 2026
I thought the book was an average read. There were some key examples in the book that pointed towards dealing with neuodiversity but for the most part it just highlighted differences between two siblings which could just as easily be differences between neurotypical siblings.
Although there is advice for carers a the end, I think the book might have done more to celebrate the differences rather than just listing them to highlight that there is no right or wrong way to be.
Although there is advice for carers a the end, I think the book might have done more to celebrate the differences rather than just listing them to highlight that there is no right or wrong way to be.
February 10, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ A Joyful Celebration of Connection Through Play
When We Play is a picture book that immediately feels like a gift to families who value connection, understanding, and the magic of childhood play. I was so happy to discover it, because it captures something I believe with my whole heart: play is how children learn, grow, and truly connect with one another. Vanessa Guevara shows this beautifully, especially for families who love a child who experiences the world through a neurodivergent lens.
Reading this with my own kids was incredibly meaningful. My son, who is 6 and autistic, lit up every time he recognized something that felt like him—spinning, running, quiet moments, side‑by‑side play, the comfort of being understood. My daughter, who is 3, connected just as easily, pointing out the ways she plays with her brother. Seeing them both reflected in these pages felt like such a tender affirmation of their bond.
The illustrations bring everything to life with warmth and movement. You can feel the love between the siblings, the joy in their shared moments, and the gentle reminder that there is no “right” way to play. Loud or quiet, active or still—every way of being together is valid.
What I appreciate most is how encouraging this story is. It shows families, friends, and classmates that connecting with neurodivergent children doesn’t require complicated strategies—it begins with play, patience, and presence. Even families without a neurodivergent child will find this book incredibly helpful for understanding how to meet kids where they are.
This is a treasure for early childhood classrooms, homeschools, therapists’ offices, and every home library. A million stars from our family.
A huge thank you to the publishers and NetGalley for letting us enjoy this beautiful book. We’ll be rushing to get a physical copy for our shelves.
When We Play is a picture book that immediately feels like a gift to families who value connection, understanding, and the magic of childhood play. I was so happy to discover it, because it captures something I believe with my whole heart: play is how children learn, grow, and truly connect with one another. Vanessa Guevara shows this beautifully, especially for families who love a child who experiences the world through a neurodivergent lens.
Reading this with my own kids was incredibly meaningful. My son, who is 6 and autistic, lit up every time he recognized something that felt like him—spinning, running, quiet moments, side‑by‑side play, the comfort of being understood. My daughter, who is 3, connected just as easily, pointing out the ways she plays with her brother. Seeing them both reflected in these pages felt like such a tender affirmation of their bond.
The illustrations bring everything to life with warmth and movement. You can feel the love between the siblings, the joy in their shared moments, and the gentle reminder that there is no “right” way to play. Loud or quiet, active or still—every way of being together is valid.
What I appreciate most is how encouraging this story is. It shows families, friends, and classmates that connecting with neurodivergent children doesn’t require complicated strategies—it begins with play, patience, and presence. Even families without a neurodivergent child will find this book incredibly helpful for understanding how to meet kids where they are.
This is a treasure for early childhood classrooms, homeschools, therapists’ offices, and every home library. A million stars from our family.
A huge thank you to the publishers and NetGalley for letting us enjoy this beautiful book. We’ll be rushing to get a physical copy for our shelves.
February 10, 2026
When We Play: Understanding Autism Through the Joy of Play by Vanessa Guevara is an essential, inclusive picture book that celebrates the unique ways children connect. Told through the perspective of a loving sibling, it beautifully illustrates that play has no single "correct" form.
Why it’s a 5-star read:
Neuro-Affirming Message: The story validates all types of expression—whether it’s spinning, lining up toys, or playing side-by-side in comfortable silence. It moves away from "deficit" views of autism to highlight the genuine joy and connection in neurodivergent experiences.
Relatable Family Dynamics: The bond between the two siblings is the heart of the book. It reflects real-world family warmth and the simple, shared moments that build unconditional love.
Engaging Visuals: Bright, cheerful illustrations by Ratu Megawangi perfectly complement the text, making the routines and sensory-friendly scenes accessible for children aged 3–8.
Educational Tool: It includes helpful notes for parents and caregivers, making it a perfect resource for classrooms and therapy settings to spark conversations about empathy and acceptance.
This is a kind, affirming book that helps every child feel seen and understood.
Why it’s a 5-star read:
Neuro-Affirming Message: The story validates all types of expression—whether it’s spinning, lining up toys, or playing side-by-side in comfortable silence. It moves away from "deficit" views of autism to highlight the genuine joy and connection in neurodivergent experiences.
Relatable Family Dynamics: The bond between the two siblings is the heart of the book. It reflects real-world family warmth and the simple, shared moments that build unconditional love.
Engaging Visuals: Bright, cheerful illustrations by Ratu Megawangi perfectly complement the text, making the routines and sensory-friendly scenes accessible for children aged 3–8.
Educational Tool: It includes helpful notes for parents and caregivers, making it a perfect resource for classrooms and therapy settings to spark conversations about empathy and acceptance.
This is a kind, affirming book that helps every child feel seen and understood.
February 3, 2026
Thank you so much to Purple Diamond Press Inc and Netgalley for the ebook to read and review.
A very sweet book on two neurodivergent children who love to play together, but both have different methods and different needs for both throughout the story. I really enjoyed the way that the facts were shared within the story, highlighting all the different areas within the spectrum.
The illustration that went along with this story were incredibly integral you got to see the visual for each thing the children were doing or the way in which they needed to do it. I really loved seeing everything highlighted in such a perfect way. I loved looking at them.
Sometimes I find books about neurodivergent children not getting it correct but this one did an incredibly good job with it, it took a fun and delicate approach, shared so many different aspects of it and even managed to showcase two children who had very different levels and needs within the spectrum. I loved that so much, a great read if you know a child in the spectrum or your child is, it’s got lots of detail and is also a really sweet read.
A very sweet book on two neurodivergent children who love to play together, but both have different methods and different needs for both throughout the story. I really enjoyed the way that the facts were shared within the story, highlighting all the different areas within the spectrum.
The illustration that went along with this story were incredibly integral you got to see the visual for each thing the children were doing or the way in which they needed to do it. I really loved seeing everything highlighted in such a perfect way. I loved looking at them.
Sometimes I find books about neurodivergent children not getting it correct but this one did an incredibly good job with it, it took a fun and delicate approach, shared so many different aspects of it and even managed to showcase two children who had very different levels and needs within the spectrum. I loved that so much, a great read if you know a child in the spectrum or your child is, it’s got lots of detail and is also a really sweet read.
February 13, 2026
When I was growing up, I do not believe any book I read featured an autistic child. I am not even sure if I knew what autism was until I was much older. Now, especially with an autism diagnosis I gained as an adult, I truly understand how important titles like these are.
When We Play features a sibling duo who love to play. The beautiful illustrations show how these kids enjoy spending time together, even when they are doing different things. Since one child is neurodivergent, they do play in different ways, but that's okay! It is a quick and enjoyable story that can be beneficial for any kid. I can also see this being extremely helpful for neurodivergent families.
This would work well for a library story time too. As the book is read out loud, librarians can ask the kids their favorite ways to play. They will surely have different answers, which ties right back into this book's message.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing a copy!
When We Play features a sibling duo who love to play. The beautiful illustrations show how these kids enjoy spending time together, even when they are doing different things. Since one child is neurodivergent, they do play in different ways, but that's okay! It is a quick and enjoyable story that can be beneficial for any kid. I can also see this being extremely helpful for neurodivergent families.
This would work well for a library story time too. As the book is read out loud, librarians can ask the kids their favorite ways to play. They will surely have different answers, which ties right back into this book's message.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing a copy!
February 12, 2026
I loved sharing When We Play with my kids. It’s really inclusive and gently shows that everyone plays differently, but you can still enjoy playing together, which felt like such a lovely message.
The story never actually labels anyone, but you can tell that the children are different, and that’s handled in such a warm, natural way. The illustrations and story kept my kids engaged, and they loved spotting games and activities they recognise from their own play. I also really appreciated the parent/carer notes at the back about wording and how to talk through the themes, such a helpful touch. A thoughtful, feelgood book that opens up great conversations and is genuinely lovely to read together
The story never actually labels anyone, but you can tell that the children are different, and that’s handled in such a warm, natural way. The illustrations and story kept my kids engaged, and they loved spotting games and activities they recognise from their own play. I also really appreciated the parent/carer notes at the back about wording and how to talk through the themes, such a helpful touch. A thoughtful, feelgood book that opens up great conversations and is genuinely lovely to read together
January 29, 2026
When We Play by Vanessa Guevara is such a beautiful tribute to children with different play and communication styles! Written from the perspective of two young children, siblings actually, in such a method that the reader is pulled into their own inner worlds so closely that the characters share their secret thoughts and feelings about sharing precious moments with one another. Lessons which can be gleaned from this tribute to not only children with unique personalities, but also children with a sibling with autism, can include respectfulness, patience, compassion, and feeling that it is okay and safe to enjoy spending time with one another.
October 5, 2025
As a reader, I was so touched by this book. Vanessa does a beautiful job at helping us understand neurodiversity through something every child relates to; play. The story feels warm, real, and full of love. It reminded me how important it is to see and celebrate each child’s unique way of connecting. This book left me smiling and thinking, and I’d recommend it to any parent, teacher, or caregiver who wants to nurture empathy and inclusion.
January 30, 2026
When We Play: Understanding Autism Through the Joy of Play (Kindle Edition)
Vanessa Guevara
This book shows students and siblings that inclusion means their are options. Using the resources for autism education children can become familiar with the practices of neurodivergent communication even at a young age. This book shows that Autism is not an end to social interactions or communication. Children can learn, play and socialize on their own level. Acceptance is important.
Vanessa Guevara
This book shows students and siblings that inclusion means their are options. Using the resources for autism education children can become familiar with the practices of neurodivergent communication even at a young age. This book shows that Autism is not an end to social interactions or communication. Children can learn, play and socialize on their own level. Acceptance is important.
January 30, 2026
When We Play is a thoughtful and inclusive book that explores different ways children play. I loved that it included family time and fun adventures both inside and outside of the home. It includes gentle and age appropriate language that is perfect for young children to understand. The illustrations align perfectly with the story and are colorful and engaging.
Thank you to NetGalley and Purple Diamond Press for the advance copy!
Thank you to NetGalley and Purple Diamond Press for the advance copy!
January 30, 2026
I love this book so much! From the beautiful illustrations to the thoughtful, loving, and realistic portrayals of siblings understanding and living with neurodiversity. This book encourages children to be understanding, empathetic, and compassionate. I very much recommend it for families, schools, libraries, parishes, etc.
Thank you to NetGalley for this free, advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley for this free, advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
February 1, 2026
Cute story on the way kids with Autism play differently than others.
It tells that no matter how differently children may play they still enjoy each other and play in different ways but in ways that are special to them as a individual. Be kind and love one another.
Helpful to understand that different is not bad and family come together to enjoy one another no matter what they may be facing together.
Thank you #NetGalley for the read
It tells that no matter how differently children may play they still enjoy each other and play in different ways but in ways that are special to them as a individual. Be kind and love one another.
Helpful to understand that different is not bad and family come together to enjoy one another no matter what they may be facing together.
Thank you #NetGalley for the read
February 14, 2026
Thanks to NetGalley for the eARC!
When We Play is a beautifully illustrated picture book about the bond between two siblings and the different ways they like to play. It validates the ways both children find joy even when they need to play differently.
My three year old daughter was very engaged with the book when I read it to her. It was a great way to talk about respecting everyone's needs and preferences when it comes to play time.
When We Play is a beautifully illustrated picture book about the bond between two siblings and the different ways they like to play. It validates the ways both children find joy even when they need to play differently.
My three year old daughter was very engaged with the book when I read it to her. It was a great way to talk about respecting everyone's needs and preferences when it comes to play time.
January 29, 2026
This is a sweet story told from the perspective of the older brother. He shares different ways that he and his sister play. They play differently but playing with her is his favorite. My 4yo daughter enjoyed the book and I thought it was sweet with the brother being the narrator.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC!
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC!
February 12, 2026
This is an enjoyable read that is not complicated presenting a kid with autism playing along with his older brother. No technical jargons or long explanations on autism. In fact, I feel that their is no difference with the two kids. Just two kids playing and enjoying themselves. The illustration is superbly bright and spot on.
February 3, 2026
I love the illustrations, its pretty good at explaining things for the spectrum for the child AND the parent.
Thx NetGalley and purple press for this book in exchange for an honest review.
Thx NetGalley and purple press for this book in exchange for an honest review.
February 9, 2026
Loved it; it features two siblings, who often see life differently, but who love each other no matter what.
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews