Low TechTriangular Crayons or Pencils:
~ These devices are really helpful with coordinating the correct posture for writing. With the triangular shape. They are easy to grip, don't roll away, and teaches the child a proper tripod position. These crayons and pencils promote purposeful and controlled drawing. This tool will be helpful in developing proper writing skills later on. This can be helpful for children with autism because it already creates an easy grip and correct posture for precorrection. Texture Pieces:
~ These pieces can be anything with texture, such as a sample piece of carpeting or even the kicthen shelf liner. This tool can be velcroed to the underside of the student's desk where it won't be a distraction for other students. Students with autism sometimes need that extra sensory stimulation in order to concentrate and get through the day. Having this little texture piece can relieve that need and help them focus on the activites. Velcro Daily Schedule:
~ This a simple and fairly inexpensive way to help maintain structure and routine, which students with autism thrive upon. Through the pictures and words, it allows the child to comprehend what is going on that given day. Lastly, the Velcro and creating Now/Next sections of the daily schedule allows the child to physically move the given class period tab to what is happening now and what class is coming up next. This allows the student to know ahead of time what is coming up next so they can prepare and be ready for the transition. Sand or Glitter Timer:
~ This tool can be bought or made, but either way is pretty inexpensive. This device can help students with autism because the falling sand or glittering can help calm the student. When a student becomes overstimulated or overwhelmed, these timers can give the the time-out they need to calm down and watch the sand or glitter fall slowly. It is a very great calming device for thest students. For instructions on how to make the glitter bottle, click on the image below. |
Mid TechLeap Frog: Tag Reading System:
~ This fairly inexpensive system helps students develop the reading skills necessary for comprehension. The student follows along with their pen and each word is read aloud. The student can press the pin on a story button on each page to hear the whole story. There are also interactive questions that help the student connect with the story and gain comprehension. These systems can range from $30-$50, depending on the bundle of books you want included. Click on the image below to see a demonstration. Infogrip Switch Adapted Mouse:
~ This switch is more simplistic than many of the other switches available. It plugs into the mouse and replaces the function of the clickers on the original mouse. The student will still have to navigate with the mosue, but will use the switch to select. This is great for students with autism because it allows them to easily access and make selections with the touch-sensitive button. This device is about $75-$80. Bubble Seat Cushion:
~ This tool is another great textile piece that will help the student recieve that extra sensory stimluation without disrupting or leaving their desk. This cushion can be placed on their desk chair and stimulate their back and bottom while they work. The cushion has small 'bubble' protrusions that message and relax the body. This tool is also only $15-$20. Social Skills Games:
~ These social skills specific games are a great way for students to understand how to interact with other students and peers in a safe and low risk way. They help reinforce postive behavior traits as well. Players are faced with socially challenging situations and must work together to decide upon the best possible response. These games range from $20-$40. |
High TechMagic Touch Screen:
~ This device can turn any computer into a touch screen, so students no longer have to use the keyboard or mouse. This is a great tool for students with autism because it allows them to have that textile piece of learning my interacting and navigating the computer through touch. This device can range from $200-$300. Ipad:
~ Athough this is quite a broad tool to suggest for students with autism, it is a muti-functional one. The Ipad is touch screen, giving students the tactile necessity and has many educational apps for social skills, educational growth, and even behavior. This tool is a great resources for student with autism, and worth the more expensive pricing. THe Ipad is about $300-$400. |
Autism Spectrum Disorder
-- a group of complex disorders that vary in degrees or severity. These students may exhibit difficulties in social interactions, verbal and nonverbal communication, and repetitive behaviors.