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

Visual display of communication choices on a clear plastic clock face. 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.