Ipad/Ipod Apps for Autism

Ipad/Ipod Apps for Autism

Our family has just donated an Ipad to my youngest son's school.

We are currently in the process of transferring all his picture exchange cards (pecs), sign language cards (Auslan), photographs, schedules, social stories, books, video stories and many other visuals cues he uses every day onto his Ipad. I have met with the school to discuss the planning involved; which Apps would be suitable ? How we are going to implement them ? and Which educational objectives we want to use the the Ipad for?  

Even though this will be an invaluable resource for my son, it is a resource (a learning tool).  The Ipad will be something he will be able to use to help communicate his needs, like adaptive technology, but one that relates specifically to him. His teacher and teacher aides can use to visual scheduling to help with changes throughout the day. My boy struggles with emotional regulation. This means he will become frustrated when he has to stop an activity he likes, or make a change within the classroom. He also has difficulties when he doesn't know what to expect.  When he attend Autism Queensland, at the age of 4, he was introduced to the format of reading a visual schedule. Like a list of photographs, showing him, what was happening throughout the day. This helps to relieve any frustration, anxiety and stressful meltdowns.

The other area of use for the Ipad, is for his sensory intolerances. We can help him block out the noise of the classroom, by using earphones. This in turn, will give him a mental break from all the demands and expectations throughout the day. It will also help to calm him, when consumed by a "sensory melt-down,"  ....usually when he is over-loaded, sensory-wise.  Both the school and I have seen his body physically, shut down to the point were he cannot be touched. He will not make eye-contact, he becomes incredibly hot and drifts in and out of absent stares. There is no communication at this point.

I am extremely blessed that the school and I have the same philosophy when it comes to using the Ipad. It is an educational resource. It is not a baby-sitter. We envision my son and  other children, involved in "experience-sharing" activities. We want to record and program social scenarios for my son to watch, either with his class or individually. We can use photographs demonstrating appropriate conduct in particular situations; like the classroom, playground, church, assembly and the library. This will help to reinforce positive his behaviour. Videos of emotions, songs, taking turns, sharing, yoga, meditation, what to do at the library, the tuckshop and activities with his older buddy in Year 6 etc.... the list could really go on and on. Along with all these ideas, another door of possibilities opens with the installation of a Smartboard in my son's classroom. SMART combines a whiteboard, computer and projector to deliver interactive images at the touch of a finger. It engages students and holds their attention with its ability to combine Music, Art, English, Math and Science into a learning moment.  Teaching in the 21st century is amazing!
I have received and listened to a lot of information about using the Ipad within the classroom and guidance on how to determine the most appropriate Apps available.

I felt it would be beneficial to discuss some of these ideas and would also welcome any other recommendations.

We have found some Important things to remember when purchasing or using an Ipad.
(Experiences based on my family situation and my children.)

The Ipad will not cure Autism.   

Take your time and plan how to use the Ipad with your child.

Set time limits with exposure to the Ipad.

Slow down and share the experience together.

Spend your money on Apps wisely... do the research first. 

Get creative in your thinking.

It should not be used as a babysitter.

I have included some PAGES of news articles relating to the use of the Ipad, App and Autism.