The iPad has arrived!

3/17/2013

I have been wanting to add an iPad to my play therapy tools for children with Autism and Asperger's for almost a year. Finally, I am pleased to announce (join me in a happy dance) that the iPad is HERE!!

I'm starting a new series on my blog, App-tastic! Autism & the iPad. to share what apps I am using in therapy, how you can incorporate the use of a tablet at home. Below are six of the apps I am interested in for using in therapy sessions. But first you've got to meet iGuy.

The iPad is Here! App-tastic! Autism & the iPad by Nikki Schwartz at SpectrumPsychological.net

NOTE: I have no affiliation to Speck Products®, Apple®, or any of the app makers and was in no way compensated for this post.

iGuy by Speck

I think this might be the best iPad case ever for kids! iGuy is soft, rubbery, durable, and CUTE! I saw him in a store a few months ago and couldn't wait to have an iPad, so I could take him home with me! iGuy stands on his own for movie watching and his arms function as great little handles. The case fits fairly snug, and I think it could handle a few tumbles. At the same time it's fairly easy to get the iPad in and out of the rubbery frame. You'll definitely see this little guy around my office!

AAC Apps

I haven't settled yet on a AAC (Augmentative Alternative Communication) app. The cost of these apps tends to be a little high. So I feel like it's worth researching before jumping in. I've read really good things about iCommunicate, AutisMate, and Proloquo2Go. I'll post a review once I've made a choice (I'm leaning towards iCommunicate, not because it is the best for voice production, but because it has the best social story maker that I think will work well in session.)

iCommunicate

AutisMate

Proloquo2Go

Games

Without a doubt there are plenty of apps that will keep the attention of a child with special needs, however, I am looking for apps that engage a child without causing them to disengage from everything else. In other words, I am looking for apps that let a client connect with others, not shut them out. Here are a few, that other therapists really like. Furry Friend is one we already use at home and is helpful for encouraging kids to talk. Among other things, the furry monster repeats everything they say back to them. Monkey Preschool Lunchbox is a good app for younger clients that uses puzzles to teach colors, shapes, etc. Touch and Learn Emotions is a free app (love free!) with cute pictures of kids expressing a variety of emotions.