Friday, December 31, 2010

IWow!


The use of IPads is exploding in the disability community. Almost every blog of a parent of a special needs child is talking about wanting one - getting one - using one. It's really amazing the impact the device is having on our day-to-day lives.

Yesterday, I found an article about yet another app for the IPad and IPhone that is designed to benefit people with disabilities. It's a communication app called Verbal Victor. Pictures are paired with recorded words, phrases or sentences and the IPad/IPhone can then be used as a communication device. And the best thing - Verbal Victor costs only $10!

I remember many years ago when I was exploring communication devices for Ashley. She rejected every single one we tested because they were too bulky, too cumbersome, and she just didn't want to be bothered. I bet if the IPad had been available then, she would have liked it. Verbal Victor will be available next week, and you can bet we will be giving it a try!

Have you found apps that you, your child or your family member with disabilities really likes? If so, please share...

6 comments:

Janet said...

Thanks for the app suggestion. I got Luke (8, ASD, non-verbal) an iPad for Christmas. My girls (10, 12) got iTouch's so Steve Jobs came to my house to set them up (NOT). I haven't got his set up yet. But I do have a list of preschool & early elementary apps that I got from my school district. I'll let you know what looks good.

Trish said...

This sounds really neat, especially since you customize it yourself. I am just getting started on looking at apps, and am looking for visual schedules, social stories, that sort of thing.

Azaera said...

It looks really cool, I just wish it were actually in my price range. Though it is waaay cheaper than having to buy a dynavox device and there's the whole "cool" factor associated with it too. So far I think Skyler's communication isn't too bad for a 2 year old, but we shall see what his SLP says next week. If he needs something to help him communicate I just might start setting aside my pennies for the ipad.

Let me know how your kids like it!

Ashley's Mom said...

Azaera, I understand about the cost of the IPad being the challenge for parents. My son, Ronnie, got an IPhone from Make a Wish and the app runs on that also.

As many applications as everyone is finding for people with disabilities, I wish Apple would come up with some sort of program that offers a reduced price for someone with a documented disability.

We got something like that for Ronnie's IPhone. AT+T has a text only plan for the hearing impaired. You just have to submit a letter of certification signed by an audiologist, a speech therapist, or a teacher of the hearing impaired. It makes the monthly cost much much cheaper.

Susan @ Oh My! Creative said...

This sounds interesting...I am going to look into it. We are in need of an effective communication system!

Susan

Sue said...

I will be interested to check that out. Have made myself a note to visit the app store during the week to see if it has been released yet