Tappy Tom Visits the Doctor
A TappyTales Book from the TappyTots Awareness Foundation
Written by Dan Sanderson Created to Empower Non-Verbal & Autistic Children
"I feel funny."
When it's time for a checkup, Tappy Tom doesn't know what to expect - and that makes his tummy feel strange. But with his AAC tablet, a kind nurse, and his mom by his side, Tom learns that being brave doesn't mean you're not scared... it just means you show up anyway.
In this warm and gentle story, young readers will walk alongside Tom as he explores a new environment filled with sights, sounds, and questions. Tappy Tom Visits the Doctor is designed to validate a child's emotions while modeling the power of communication, patience, and compassionate care.
Whether your child is preparing for a real-life doctor's visit or simply navigating new experiences, this book helps build confidence, reduce anxiety, and encourage self-expression - especially for those using AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication).
Features a non-verbal autistic main character
Reinforces AAC communication on every page
Illustrates emotional regulation and reassurance
Highlights gentle healthcare interactions
Created with input from real families and educators
Tappy Tom Visits the Doctor is the fifth book in the beloved TappyTales series - a collection of heart-led children's books designed for non-verbal children, autistic learners, and any child who experiences the world a little differently.
Each book features:
Soft, sensory-friendly illustrations
Realistic school or community settings
Relatable social-emotional moments
Powerful visuals of AAC use in action
Parents of autistic or non-verbal children
Speech therapists, educators, and aides
Pediatricians & child life specialists
Inclusive classroom libraries
Anyone teaching empathy, bravery, or self-expression
At the heart of every TappyTales book is a mission:
To give the voiceless a voice.
Proceeds support awareness efforts, inclusive resources, and the development of the free TappyTots AAC app - available on Google Play.
Download the TappyTots App to create custom communication boards
Visit www.TappyTots.com to learn more
Use hashtag #GivingTheVoicelessAVoice to share your story