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Using Assistive Technology in the Early Childhood Classroom

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

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Using Assistive Technology in the Early Childhood Classroom

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  1. Using Assistive Technology in the Early Childhood Classroom Kristine Jenkins

  2. 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.

  3. 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?

  4. 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?

  5. 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.

  6. Categories of AT for Young Children • Adapted & Universally Designed Toys • Daily Living Aids • Communication Tools • Computer Access • Educational Aids • Mobility Aids • Sensory Aids

  7. Types of Assistive Technology (AT) No Tech Simple changes made to environment or equipment. “Homemade”, or created. No cost Low Tech Modest 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

  8. Adapted & UD ToysDaily Living Aids Large push button switch. Lowered, slanted easel. Open grip utensils Cut out cup Key chain zipper pull

  9. Communication SkillsMobility Aids Pediatric Walker Microphone & Amplifier Positioning / Mobility Chair Picture Board Communication Board

  10. Educational AidsComputer Access Writing prompts Variety of computer aids Swivel stick mouse Fine Motor Writing Aids Flexible touch pad

  11. Sensory Aids Sensory Sit-upon Sand Table Oral Stimulators Hammock swing Scratch & sniff book

  12. 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

  13. 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.

  14. 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

  15. 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/

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