Early Childhood Special Education and Assistive Technology Blog

By: Kimberly Chouinard, ECSEAT Scholar Over the past few years I have taken a few courses in Assistive Technology though my program here at the University of New Hampshire. I have learned to “use what you have” for support or to make things accessible for learners. This semester I had a great experience with a student in my class that I would like to share. A student in my class who experiences motor delays started to grow.  That’s great!  We love growth!  But, this growth caused seating issues and it takes time to fit, order and receive new equipment. He seemed to be growing out of his supportive chair and tray. His legs had grown and his feet where not well positioned on the foot support any longer. This growth caused his feet to slide off the foot support, kick out and limit accessibility to table activities with peers. I took my concerns to our team. His nurse, Physical Therapist and I were able to identify the problem (i.e., the foot plate was now too short for his g...

By: Lindsay LaFleur, EC-SEAT Scholar and Early Supports and Services certified educator Certain Proof is a 60-minute documentary that follows three children experiencing cerebral palsy.  Under the Individual with Disabilities Education Act of 1975, children with disabilities have the opportunity to receive a free and appropriate education.  Although, this is the law many interrupt it differently. Throughout the video, the children are proving to their educators that they deserve to be in an inclusive classroom with their peers.  Also seen throughout the video is the struggle families face as they prove their child’s potential and advocate for their futures.     “ At the heart of Certain Proof are complex questions: Is the education system forcing parents to scale back their expectations and dreams for their children? Are educators, parents, governments and citizens willing to demand a system that ensures every child – no matter his or her situation – ca...

Lauren Pasquazzi , EC-SEAT Scholar and Assistant Preschool Teacher The first adaptation I created is a pen for the iPad. This pen is specifically designed for young children because one of the materials that was used was a child's utensil. This helps a child to have a better grip when using it. I also used conductive foam and ez fuse tape.  The second adaptation I created is a glove with the finger cut off. This can help children who may have a difficult time using a touch screen and end up putting all of their hand on the screen. The screen won't detect the glove only the skin which is where the fingers will be. Meg Foehl , EC-SEAT Scholar and Preschool Teacher The first adaptation is used to help a child isolate the use of his or her pointer finger. It is made from a child's cotton winter glove with the tip of the pointer finger cut off. The second adaptation is a low cost simple to make diy stylus. It is made out of an old pen, a q-tip, ...