Representation on screen is crucial for children with disabilities because it fosters a sense of belonging and validation. When children see characters who share similar experiences or challenges, it can help them understand that they are not alone. This visibility also contributes to breaking down stereotypes and misconceptions, promoting empathy and acceptance among all viewers. Positive portrayals can inspire children with disabilities by showing them a diverse range of possibilities and role models, reinforcing that they can achieve their goals and be themselves. Moreover, accurate and respectful representation helps educate others, creating a more inclusive society where differences are embraced rather than stigmatized. Ultimately, seeing themselves reflected in media can enhance self-esteem, encourage resilience, and support the mental and emotional well-being of children with disabilities.
All the more reason why a curated list of on screen representation of children with disabilities is important!
TV Shows
Show Title: Sesame Street
Recommended Age: Preschoolers (Ages 2-5)
Where to Watch: Available on HBO Max, PBS Kids, and the Sesame Street website. *Episodes featuring Julia can also be found on YouTube.
Features a character named Julia, who has autism. Her inclusion aims to promote understanding and acceptance among young viewers.
Show Title: Blue’s Clues
Recommended Age: Preschoolers (Ages 2-5)
Where to Watch: Streaming on Paramount+ and available on various DVD collections. Some episodes are also available on YouTube.
Although not explicitly about disabilities, the show sometimes includes episodes and characters that promote understanding and empathy, including those with diverse abilities.
Show Title: Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood”
Recommended Age: Preschoolers and early elementary (Ages 3-7)
Where to Watch: Available on PBS Kids, and the entire series can be found on the PBS website. Some episodes are also available on Amazon Prime Video.
Has featured various episodes that address disabilities and differences, helping young viewers understand and appreciate diversity.
Show Title: The Lion Guard
Recommended Age: Preschoolers to early elementary (Ages 3-7)
Where to Watch: Available on Disney+ and various episodes can be found on DVD collections.
Includes a character named Fuli who is depicted as being differently-abled in various episodes, fostering inclusion and empathy.
Show Title: Everything’s Rosie
Recommended Age: Preschoolers (Ages 2-5)
Where to Watch: Available on Amazon Prime Video and various DVD collections. Some episodes may also be found on YouTube.
This animated series features diverse characters and occasionally includes those with different needs and abilities. By depicting characters with a range of abilities, it helps young children understand and accept differences in a playful, engaging way.
Show Title: Speechless
Recommended Age: Ages 10 and up (due to some mature themes)
Where to Watch: Hulu, ABC’s official website, and Disney+
JJ DiMeo, a teenager with cerebral palsy who uses a communication device in this comedy-drama series provides a nuanced look at the life of a teenager with cerebral palsy and his family’s journey to advocate for his needs.
Show Title: Atypical
Recommended Age: 12+ due to mature themes
Where to watch: Netflix
Sam, an 18 year old with Autism, exploring his life as a young man on the autism spectrum and the impact of his family and social interactions.
Movies
Movie Title: A Little Princess
Recommended Age: Ages 7 and up (due to some emotional themes)
Where to Watch: Available for rent or purchase on Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and YouTube. Sometimes available on Disney+.
Features a character named Miss Minchin’s niece who has a physical disability. The film sensitively portrays her experience and interactions with others.
Movie Title: My Brother Charlie
Recommended Age: Ages 5-10 (as it is often used in educational settings)
Where to Watch: This film may not be widely available on major streaming platforms. It is worth checking educational or special needs resource libraries or contacting organizations focused on autism. Some clips available on youtube.
Based on the book by Holly Robinson Peete and Ryan Peete, this film tells the story of a young boy with autism from the perspective of his twin sister.
Movie Title: Temple Grandin
Recommended Age: Ages 12 and up (due to some mature themes)
Where to Watch: Available on HBO Max. It may also be available for rent or purchase on Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and other digital platforms.
This HBO biopic includes scenes from Temple Grandin’s childhood and provides a look into the experiences of a young girl with autism.
Movie Title: Wonder
Recommended Age: Ages 8 and up (due to some emotional and social themes)
Where to Watch: Available on Disney+ and can be rented or purchased on Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and YouTube.
Although the main character, Auggie Pullman, has a facial difference rather than a developmental disability, the film addresses themes of acceptance and kindness in a way that is accessible for younger audiences.
Other Recommendations:
The below collection of TV shows and movies provides a range of representations that support the understanding and acceptance of disabilities among young audiences. By featuring characters with diverse abilities and challenges, these media offerings help to normalize disability, promote empathy, and provide role models. Whether through fictional storytelling or real-life interviews, these resources are designed to educate, inspire, and encourage inclusivity, making a significant impact on both children with disabilities and their peers.
TV Shows
Title: Special Books by Special Kids
Recommended Age: All ages (educational content, suitable for older children as well)
Where to Watch: Available on YouTube. This channel features interviews with individuals with a range of disabilities, including children.
This YouTube channel features real-life interviews with individuals of all ages who have various disabilities, including children.
Relevance: Provides real-world insights and authentic stories, promoting awareness and empathy through personal narratives.
Title: Doc McStuffins
Recommended Age: Preschoolers (Ages 2-5)
Where to Watch: Available on Disney+ and various DVD collections. Some episodes are also available on YouTube.
Overview: An animated series featuring a young girl who aspires to be a doctor and helps her toy patients. Though the show primarily focuses on healthcare, it includes diverse characters and promotes problem-solving and empathy, beneficial for children learning about different needs.
Movies
Title: Finding Dory
Recommended Age: Ages 4 and up
Where to Watch: Available on Disney+ and can be rented or purchased on Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and YouTube.
Overview: This film features Dory, a fish with short-term memory loss, on a quest to find her family. The portrayal of Dory’s memory loss helps normalize cognitive differences and encourages understanding and acceptance of disabilities.
Title: The Good Dinosaur
Recommended Age: Ages 4 and up
Where to Watch: Available on Disney+ and can be rented or purchased on Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and YouTube. An animated film about a young dinosaur’s journey of self-discovery.
Relevance: While not explicitly about disabilities, it addresses themes of overcoming personal challenges and understanding one’s unique strengths, which can resonate with children facing their own difficulties.
Title: Up
Recommended Age: Ages 6 and up (due to some emotional themes)
Where to Watch: Available on Disney+ and can be rented or purchased on Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and YouTube.
Overview: An animated adventure about an elderly man and a young boy on a quest to fulfill a lifelong dream. Includes themes of loss, resilience, and the importance of fulfilling dreams, which can provide valuable life lessons for children with disabilities.
Title: Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time
Recommended Age: Ages 12 and up (based on the book, more suitable for older children and teens)
Where to Watch: As of now, the film adaptation hasn’t been released, but the stage adaptation can be a good resource. The book is available for purchase or at libraries.
These selections are geared towards younger audiences and offer various insights and positive representations of disabilities, supporting both the children who experience these challenges and their peers.
Based on the book, this story revolves around a young boy with autism solving a mystery. The story offers insight into the life of a young person with autism, helping to foster understanding and empathy among viewers.
We are committed to curating the best and most up to date resources, if there’s a show, episode or movie we missed please feel free to submit to our START HERE team so we can add it!