Finding the right tools to support students with autism spectrum disorder can make a meaningful difference in their learning and development. Today’s technology offers a wide range of apps for children with autism that help them communicate and express themselves, build social skills, and improve motor skills and emotional regulation. Whether it’s an AAC app for nonverbal communication, interactive social stories, or apps that help manage time and routines, these digital tools are designed to meet diverse needs. In this guide, we’ll highlight some of the best apps for kids with autism that not only aid in communication, but also support how children learn through engaging activities and structured support.
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1. Goally
First on our list is Goally, a learning tablet designed with your neurodivergent student in mind. Goally offers a suite of apps that support various aspects of your child’s development. It’s like having a personal learning companion for your child, one that understands their unique needs and strengths.
For example, Goally’s routine management app helps your child navigate their daily routines, from brushing their teeth to packing their school bag. The app uses visual cues and timers to guide your child, fostering independence and self-confidence. Goally also offers apps for behavior management and skill-building, all designed to support your child’s growth in a fun and engaging way.
2. Proloquo2Go
Next up is Proloquo2Go, an app that transforms your child’s tablet into a communication tool. It’s a symbol-based app that enables your child to express their thoughts, needs, and feelings. It’s like giving your child a voice, allowing them to interact with the world around them.
The app is customizable, so it can grow with your child, adapting to their evolving communication skills. Whether your child wants to tell you about their favorite toy or share their feelings, Proloquo2Go supports them.
3. Otsimo
Third on our list is Otsimo, an educational game app designed specifically for students with autism. It offers a variety of fun, interactive games that teach essential skills like math, reading, and social cues. The best part? Your child will be learning while having a blast.
Most importantly, the app uses the principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), a proven therapy for kids with autism. So, while your child is having fun, they also learn crucial skills. It’s a win-win!
4. Choice works
Next, Choiceworks is an app that helps your child understand and follow daily routines. This app is a visual schedule tool that uses images to represent different tasks. For example, your child can see a sequence of pictures illustrating the steps for getting ready for bed.
This app benefits kids who thrive on routine and predictability. It can help reduce anxiety and promote independence, making daily routines a breeze for your child and you.
Read more: Best Tablet for Kids
5. Endless Reader
Finally, we have Endless Reader. This app makes learning to read an engaging and enjoyable experience. It introduces kids to sight words, the most commonly used English word, through interactive puzzles and cute animations.
The app uses visual and auditory cues to help kids remember the words, boosting their reading confidence. With Endless Reader, your child will be reading their favorite storybooks in no time!
Goally is a great tool for kids with ASD who are looking to improve their life and language skills. It can be used in the home or clinic, and it is tailored to the individual needs of each child. Goally is a digital therapy and teaching assistant that can help kiddos with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Goally can help children with a variety of tasks, including:
- Learning New Skills: Goally’s video classes helps children learn new skills, such as: how to follow directions, how to interact with peers, and how to make a sandwich.
- Increased Communication: Goally helps children effectively communicate wants and needs while also teaching them their first 50 words, allowing children to participate in the world around them.
- Behavior Management: Goally helps children manage their behavior, both in the classroom and at home by rewarding positive behaviors created by parents and teachers.
Goally’s distraction-free kid’s tablet can be used as a therapy tool to help teach executive function, language, emotional regulation, finger dexterity skills, and more!
The right apps for students with autism can offer powerful support in areas like communication, social interaction, emotional regulation, and daily routines. Whether your child needs an AAC app to help them speak, tools to identify and regulate emotions, or interactive games that improve fine motor and problem-solving skills, these apps are designed to meet their unique learning needs. With consistent use, many of these apps for kids can help children with autism spectrum disorder build confidence, independence, and essential life skills—at home, in school, and beyond.
Emily is a seasoned blog writer for Goally, leveraging her extensive background in child psychology and special education to provide valuable insights and resources for parents. Her commitment to understanding and addressing the unique needs of these children, combined with her expertise in educational strategies, makes her a credible and empathetic voice for families.
