Assistive Technology Portfolio

FOR EARLY EDUCATORS

Defining Assistive Technology

Any type of device that helps a child with a disability perform a skill or participate in an activity is considered an assistive technology (Campbell, Milbourne and Wilcox, 2008).

As defined by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), assistive technologies are required to be provided to children who need them as part of the special education services they receive (Connecticut State Department of Education, 2019).

Assistive Technology can be ...

Low-Tech

Such as pencil grips to support fine motor development, visual timers to support transitions, printed images to communicate feelings and needs, and manipulatives to support learning of math skills.

Mid-Tech

Such as audio recorders to capture ideas for pre-writing, and speech output devices to communicate feelings and needs.

High-Tech

Such as hearing aids, computer equipment and software apps that support reading and communication, and noise-blocking headphones to reduce sensory stimulation.

This website is designed to provide early educators with an understanding of the types of assistive technologies that are available, and how they can be used effectively to support the growth and development of the young children in their care.

Use the navigation links at the top of the website to learn about universal design for learning (UDL), the SETT framework tool, and quick tips to AT tools and resources you can use with young children for different developmental areas and needs.

For more resources to support early educators, visit The SEEDS Network, LLC

The SEEDS Network, LLC was created to support early childhood educators, administrators, care providers, advocates, supporters and parents of young children with online resources and professional development training.

REFERENCES

Campbell, P., Milbourne, S., and Wilcox, J. (2008). Adaptations interventions to promote participation in natural settings. Infants and Young Children, 21, 94-106.

Connecticut State Department of Education. (2019). Section 1: Connecticut assistive technology guidelines for ages 3-21. Retrieved from: https://portal.ct.gov/-/media/SDE/Publications/atguide/at-guide_march-2019.pdf

Judge, S. L. (2000). Accessing and Funding Assistive Technology for Young Children with Disabilities. Early Childhood Education Journal, 28(2), 125–131.

Simon Technology Center (2015). Examples of Assistive Technology for Young Children.Technology to Improve Kids’ Educational Success (TIKES), Minneapolis, MN, PACER Center.

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