I have a classroom of students with multiple delays. So over the years we have used a number of assistive devices in our classroom. Currently, we have two chairs that give back, side and foot support for students that have difficulty supporting their bodies. We have a child who uses a walker. Her first walker this year was one that had a seat for her to sit on while she used her feet to propel herself. She has progressed to a walker that does not have a seat and now she must use her feet along with her arms and upper body to support herself. We have support bars in the bathroom to provide assistance for children when using the bathroom. We have a four button Easy Speak that can be programed with the teacher's voice to make comments. It's easy to change the messages, so the device can be used at meals, or at circle or at a center. We have lots of picture communication systems in the room: picture schedules, task analysis cards, and picture communication boards in the centers. We have adapted scissors and paint brushes. One year we had an adapted tricycle that rode down low like a "Big Wheel" and had straps on the pedals. One year we had a child who was tube fed and needed an adapted chair for positioning during her feeding. One year we had a student who was learning to use a communication computer with a field of 25 buttons and several layers - or pages of buttons that he could access. We have several books in the classroom adapted with velcro pictures.
There are many uses for assistive technology in the classroom. The DEC Recommended Practices textbook lists several of these uses: communication and language, environmental access, social-adaptive skills, mobility and orientation skills, daily life skills, social interaction skills, health, position/handling. In our classroom we most often use assistive tech. for communications needs. But when we have children with cerebral palsy or other physically handicapping conditions, we really depend on assistive technology to help us with fine and gross motor needs.
Resources:
Sandall, Susan, Hemmeter, Mary Louise, Smith, Barbara J., & McLean, Mary E. DEC Recommended Practices. A Comprehensive Guide for Practical Application in Early Intervention/Early Childhood Special Education. Missoula, MT: SOPRIS WEST Educational Services. 2005.
It is amazing that you have used so many assistive technologies in your classroom. It sounds like a wonderfully inclusive environment. The Pre-K teacher next door to me is working with a child who has CP. This has allowed me to see many incredible devices that can be used to support and enhance his development such as adaptive chairs, walkers, writing and feeding utensils, potty seat, etc.
ReplyDeleteYour description of assistive technology in your classroom was educational and interesting. The children in your classroom are fortunate to have all of these devises available and fortunate to have a caring teacher. The acquisition of language is one of the most important events in child development, so I like that you have many things in your classroom for communication needs.
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