Sadao low tech AT tools.pdf

LOW- OR NO-TECH ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY OPTIONS

Assistive technology doesn’t have to be high-tech! Here are 5 great examples of easy-to-use, low-tech or no-tech AT tools that help build children’s communication skills.

AT TOOL

Communication photographs

WHAT IT IS
Individual digital photos of actual items, people, actions, places, and feelings of child’s environment.

HOW TO USE IT
Select the appropriate number and size of photos for the child.
Position photo in front of object to link symbol and object.

HOW IT HELPS

Links to objects in environment to build communicative intent.
Reinforces familiar receptive vocabulary and introduces novel words.

AT TOOL

Visual scene

WHAT IT IS
Large photograph of a familiar environment (laminated or preserved with page protector)

HOW TO USE IT
Introduce the photo prior to an activity.
Preview what the child will see, do, and experience.
Review after the activity.

HOW IT HELPS

Depicts actions, people, and interactions in context, to help the child build vocabulary beyond nouns.

AT TOOL

Communication icons with printed label

WHAT IT IS
Individual icons printed on single laminated cards.

HOW TO USE IT
Select the appropriate icon cards for the child.
Position card in front of object to link icon and object.

HOW IT HELPS

Represents objects, actions, people, and other vocabulary in a higher level of symbolic representation.

AT TOOL

Activity board

WHAT IT IS
Various sizes and numbers of photos and icons displayed on a board.

HOW TO USE IT
Position core words in the same place on repeated boards to show steps of activities in sequence.
Use aided language stimulation to highlight words.
Wait for child’s response.

HOW IT HELPS

Child controls the pointer with the touch of a switch until the desired symbol is reached.

HOW IT HELPS

Great way to communicate choices and desires, supports comprehension and expressive language.