Low Tech and High Tech Here is the link that should answer a lot of our questions as to what is out there that can be used to help our kids reach their potential. A lot of times what we do is so routine that we don't think about it being "Assistive Technology". When we cut a folder to slide the worksheet into it, we are helping the kids focus on one problem at a time. When we white out the directions we are not just getting rid of the clutter we are making the world less confusing.
Sometimes our modifications are big (re-writing the text book). Sometimes they are small (tape on the edge of the heart so it gets cut before unfolded). Always, the modification is key in helping kids find success.
We use accomidations when we make sure that the door buttons are on and we rearrange a classroom so that a wheelchair fits. We accomidate by lifting tables and enlarging copies. We use CCTV's and we make sure that the glare from the window isn't blurring the screen.
There are new apps for iPods that would be wonderful to obtain. The backlighting on the new iPad could be a great asset for our vision kids. We could increase our use of computers and switches could be eye gaze. All of our kids could benefit from an Assistive Technology assessment. Until that time, keep doing what we do best. Look for ways to help build success by making the world a little easier.
Access Fire Fox Here is a link that can be used to make searching the web more user friendly. You can eliminate text, make things bigger and a thousand more applications that I would love to explore. This is going to help all our kids and family members who get lost while using the net. The plan is, see what the studnets issues appear to be and then, go to this site and see if we can elliminate the problem while they are learning to use the computer. There are plenty of other places our kids can be confused.
RJ Cooper This is the site that has all the switches, adaptive equipment and other valuable knick-knacks that show up in the car of our beloved OT!
Onion Mountain Technology Another great site for supplies and gadgets!
