What does Assistive Technology mean for a prekindergarten student?

AT devices commonly used for young learners include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Adapted toys, books and educational materials
• Adapted tools for writing, eating, painting, etc.
• Adaptive positioning equipment
• Low to high tech augmentative communication including speech generating devices, picture communication systems, eye gaze boards
• Positive behavioral supports such as individual picture schedules, task cards, timers, seat cushions, individual work systems and specialized classroom strategies/instruction (Conscious Discipline, Social Skills)
• Switch access to toys, electronic devices and computers
• Adaptive positioning and mobility devices

What Needs To Be Considered by the Child's Family and School Team?

The first and most important question to answer is:

"What do we want this student to be able to do that he/she is not currently able to do because of his/her disability?"

Other things to consider include:

• What has been tried to meet this need? Is it working? Why or why not?
• What devices or strategies can be utilized to meet this need?
• How can these devices/strategies be integrated into the classroom curriculum?
• What training and/or follow up will be required?

The Assistive Technology Implementation Plan (ATIP) is the core document used in our program to choose, implement and document results of assistive technology for a student.