Tuesday, June 28, 2011

Clinic Notes: iPad Apps for Children with Autism Redux

At the Children's Treatment Center I see 40 plus kids per week. Most of these children, 89-90%, have autism or some related disorder. The age range is 18 months to 12 years of age and ABA, behavior management; touch screen computer drills are the therapies we have employed. But, as I mentioned in a previous blog, the iPad has beena game changer. All children, but especially children on the spectrum, are drawn to the iPad and work better on the apps that they do live or with the touch screen computer. We just put out DDT Sight Words app in the store after testing it in our clinic for weeks. Just like DTT Colors, DTT Shapes, DTT, Letters, and DTT Numbers, the kids learned much quicker, stayed on task without being prompted, (most did not want to take a play break). If I had a wish for children with autism it would be their very own iPad loaded with apps--ours--amd the many other great apps that are out there. If you are a parent, teacher, or therapists check out this amazing technology. If you have an iPad and would like recommendations for apps let me know.