In This Issue . . .
October 19, 2010
IDEA requires schools to use assistive technology "to maximize accessibility for children with disabilities."
Your child's IEP team must make decisions about any assistive technology devices and services your child requires based on his unique needs.
This includes training that your child, your family, or your child's teachers may need so they can learn to use a device.
In this issue of the Special Ed Advocate, you'll find a new page at Wrightslaw about Assistive Technology that includes articles and information, FAQs, guides, free publications, and a list of resources.
Next week in Assistive Techology: Part 2, you will find strategies you can use when negotiating with the school for AT services and an updated list of AT Funding Sources.
Please don't hesitate to forward this issue to other friends, families, or colleagues.
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New Resource Page! Assistive Technology
Assistive technology helps your child use her strengths to compensate or "work around" weaknesses caused by the disability. If you think your child needs assistive technology so that she can be more confident and independent, request that the IEP team refer your child for an evaluation by a specialist.
Check out our new page about Assistive Technology devices, services, evaluations, and resources. You will also find information about Universal Design for Learning and NIMAS.
Assistive Technology can be highly effective, but incredibly expensive.
We would like to develop a list of funding resources or loan programs for assistive technology. Our focus is on programs that help families get educational AT for their children with disabilities in learning.
If you are aware of any resources that would help parents in obtaining AT devices or services, please let us know. Send us an email that includes the website link or contact name and number of the resource to atech | at | wrightslaw.com.
As we receive information, we'll add to our list of funding sources on the AT page. Thank you!