Using Assistive Technology in the Early Childhood Classroom

Kristine Jenkins

What is Assistive Technology?

Services

Any service to the child with a disability, family or educator, that helps with selection, acquisition and use of the device.

Devices

Any equipment or software, purchased, modified or created that improves the access, functionality, understanding and participation of a child with disabilities.

How is the need for AT determined?

Observe the child in the classroom.

Is the child having difficulty completing certain tasks or communicating?

Discuss routines and activities with parents, gather feedback.

What does the child do well?

How is the need for AT determined?

What does the child like or dislike doing in the class, and at home?

What do the teacher and parents want the child to participate in?

Are these activities developmentally appropriate for the child?

How much assistance does the child need?

One of the main goals is to provide an environment that is accessible to all children.

Encourage independence.

Provide support, scaffold learning, encouragement, then step back.

Observe, evaluate effectiveness, adjust, repeat.

Categories of AT for Young Children

Adapted & Universally Designed Toys

Daily Living Aids

Communication Tools

Computer Access

Educational Aids

Mobility Aids

Sensory Aids

Types of Assistive Technology (AT)

No TechSimple changes made to environment or equipment. “Homemade”, or created.

No cost

Low TechModest changes, more involved mechanics, “McGyver-ish” changes to equipment.

Low Cost or no cost

Medium Tech

More complicated mechanical or software modifications. May need “expert” assistance.

Modest cost

High Tech

Very advanced computer software, hardware, or digital devices. Equipment purchased from manufacturer.

High Cost

Adapted & UD ToysDaily Living Aids

Large push button switch.

Lowered, slanted easel.

Open grip utensils

Cut out cup

Key chain zipper pull

Communication Skills

Mobility Aids

Microphone & Amplifier

Picture Board

Communication Board

Pediatric Walker

Positioning / Mobility Chair

Educational Aids

Computer Access

Writing prompts

Fine Motor Writing Aids

Variety of computer aidsSwivel stick mouse

Flexible touch pad

Sensory Aids

Sensory Sit-upon

Hammock swing

Scratch & sniff book

Sand Table

Oral Stimulators

Low Tech Assistive Technology

Many types of “no-tech” or “low-tech” assistive technologies are actually adaptations to a device, to the instructional method or to the environment.

Through creating this change or adaptation you provide the individual more ease of use, ease of participation or ease of access.

Some examples of adaptations may include:

* Adjustable height table & chairs * Non-slip seat surface

* Adjustable lighting * Pencil grip

* Pictures of objects/actions * Variety of textures

How does AT support inclusion?

Technology can provide a bridge for students to Communicate, Participate, and Learn along with their typically developing peers.

Communicate: Through augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices and methods.

Participate: Through inclusive playtime.

Learn: Through adapted

curriculum and materials.

Making it happen in your class Observe, communicate

Is there a need?

Can you create a way to meet the need?

Does it help the child participate?

Do you need information or help?

Resources

Implementation

Observe, communicate, adjust, repeat

Resources Assistivetech.net -

www.assistivetech.net

Center for Early Literacy Learning - www.earlyliteracylearning.org

Family Center on Technology and Disability (FCTD) – www.fctd.info

SC Assistive Technology Program - www.sc.edu/scatp/index.htm

Division for Early Childhood – Special Needs - http://www.dec-sped.org/

National Assistive Technology Technology Assistance Partnership (NATTAP) - http://resnaprojects.org/nattap/

Tots-n-Tech – http://tnt.asu.edu

Frank Porter Graham Institute -http://community.fpg.unc.edu/