Using Assistive Technology as a Behavior Support
Visual scripts can be helpful
to reinforce calming-down strategies
to reinforce calming-down strategies
Vision boards are another great low-tech option to help students keep track of goals!
These are great low-tech options that can be used at school and in-home to support a child's emotional growth. Behavior consequence charts can also be beneficial to help children visualize, and therefore better understand the consequences that come with certain behaviors.
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Mid-Tech Supports
Talk Light is a sensory management system. It works as an automated traffic light "that can monitor noise, manage time, control production, and much more." Talk Light Inc. offers multiple different Talk Lights. One is a very large version, perfect for hanging up in classrooms and school cafeterias. There is also the Talk Light Too, which is a small, portable version that the user can bring with them anywhere
Reminder devices can also be a useful mid-tech tool. With a reminder device, you can set multiple alarms or timers that will vibrate silently to alert you to do whatever you decide you need reminding of. For example, a reminder device might be useful for a student who may have accidents because they forget or don't realize they need to use the bathroom. A small vibration set every couple hours or so can give them the reminder they need to go to the bathroom. Reminder devices are also used with students with ADHD or other attention issues. The vibration from the device reminds them to keep their focus.
One specific example is the WatchMinder, invented by a child psychologist. This reminder device is designed to look as a wrist-watch, so it is more discrete and appealing. The WatchMinder can be used for children and students to self-monitor and reinforce positive behaviors, cue themselves to participate in class discussions, manage medication, and many others. |
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Other Easy A.T. Supports
- Ear plugs or ear muffs to limit distraction
- Word processing programs and speech-to-text may be helpful for students that have trouble getting their thoughts onto paper