A fun, uplifting adventure woven with heart, wisdom, and a dash of discovery…
Özra makes a strong debut with a sensitive and deeply relatable story, offering a poignant glimpse into the world of a neurodivergent child. Aydin is a curious, adventurous boy who loves exploring the world with his loyal poodle, Sam. But his excitement sometimes leads him into risky situations. He sees things differently and learns in his own way, sometimes in ways that aren’t always safe. Fortunately, with Sam’s gentle guidance and his parents’ support, Aydin begins to understand what’s safe and why it matters.
Aydin’s boundless curiosity propels him into exciting discoveries but also into potentially dangerous situations—climbing too high, touching hot objects, or darting toward busy streets. In each instance, Sam is a steady presence, stepping in with a reassuring “Ruff!” to gently guide him back to safety. This dynamic presents an empathetic, non-restrictive approach to teaching safety, reinforcing that exploration and caution can coexist. Rather than stifling Aydin’s sense of wonder, Sam’s presence empowers him to engage with the world while learning to recognize risks—an essential balance for children who experience their surroundings with heightened intensity and may struggle with traditional safety lessons.
The narrative is warm and supportive, reinforcing safety concepts through Aydin’s direct experiences. This structure facilitates learning through repetition, allowing children to absorb important lessons naturally. For instance, Aydin’s fascination with cars and fire is met with Sam’s patient guidance, emphasizing the importance of listening to those who care for us. This approach of combining visual storytelling with simple, clear cues—makes the book particularly effective for neurodivergent children who benefit from structured, experience-based learning.
However, the book is more than just a guide to safety rules—it is a deeply empathetic exploration of trust, growth, and the profound bond between a child and his devoted companion. Aydin’s journey is not only about recognizing danger; it’s about understanding that he is never alone in navigating the world. Sam is not there to scold or control but to offer guidance and emotional reassurance, reinforcing the idea that safety isn’t about restriction. It’s about support. This dynamic mirrors the experiences of many neurodivergent children, who often learn best through hands-on experiences, supported by patient and understanding caregivers. The story beautifully captures the trust Aydin places in Sam and Sam’s quiet devotion in return, showing that independence and safety are not opposing forces but can grow together. Vibrant illustrations provide a perfect companion to the creative text.
The book stands apart from other books on the same topic, such as “The Safety Book for Children” by Dr. Karen O’Brien or “I Can Stay Safe” by Julie Aigner-Clark, by focusing on the emotional and relational aspects of learning safety, specifically for neurodivergent children. While the aforementioned books are more general, providing straightforward rules and scenarios for all children, “Aydin Stays Safe” emphasizes the importance of guidance, patience, and emotional support in helping a neurodivergent child understand safety. As a mother of an autistic son, Özra’s personal insights infuse the book with depth and authenticity, offering both reassurance and practical guidance for families navigating similar challenges.
A must-have for families, educators, and therapists working with neurodivergent children. Libraries focused on inclusivity and diverse learning experiences will find this an essential addition to their collections.
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