A Friend Like Simon is a warm and relatable story about friendship, inclusion, and understanding differences. The story is told from the perspective of a child describing their friend Simon, who experiences the world in his own unique way.
- Title: “A Friend Like Simon“
- Written by: Kate Gaynor
- Illustrated by: Caitriona Sweeney
- Age Group: 3 – 6 years
- Links to EYLF
- Principles: Respect for diversity | Equity, inclusion and high expectations
- Practices: Responsiveness to children | Holistic, integrated and interconnected approaches | Inclusive practice
- Outcomes: Children have a strong sense of identity | Children are connected with and contribute to their world | Children have a strong sense of wellbeing
About the Book
A Friend Like Simon is a warm and relatable story about friendship, inclusion and understanding differences. The story is told from the perspective of a child describing their friend Simon, who experiences the world in his own unique way.
Simon sometimes finds it hard to join in group activities, communicate in expected ways, or engage with others but he also brings his own strengths, interests and ways of connecting. Through patience, support and understanding, the children learn how to include Simon in play and friendship.
While the story can be linked to autism, it is written in a way that opens broader conversations about neurodiversity, different ways of thinking, communicating and engaging with the world. It helps children understand that everyone participates differently – and that inclusion means adapting, not expecting everyone to be the same.
This book is ideal for early learning environments to explore inclusion, empathy, and flexible ways of interacting. It supports children to recognise that friendships look different for everyone and that small acts of understanding can make a big difference.
Reflective questions for children might include:
- What makes Simon a good friend?
- How can we include someone who plays or communicates differently?
- What are different ways people like to play or learn?
- How can we be kind and patient with others?
Why We Love It
We love A Friend Like Simon because it gently introduces the idea that everyone experiences the world differently, without labelling or focusing on deficits. It supports children to build empathy, patience and inclusive behaviours in a natural and meaningful way.
The story aligns strongly with the EYLF by promoting a sense of belonging, respect for diversity and positive social interactions.
It encourages educators to reflect on how environments and interactions can be adapted to support all learners, rather than expecting children to fit into one way of being.
This book is a valuable resource for fostering inclusive practice, supporting children to develop respectful relationships, and creating environments where all ways of thinking and being are welcomed.
