Parents, we know you’re always searching for tools and strategies to help your child thrive, especially if they’re neurodivergent. Low tech assistive technology can be a game-changer, offering simple yet effective solutions to support your child’s learning and development. In this post, we’ll explore three affordable and easy-to-implement low tech assistive technology options that can make a significant difference in your child’s life: visual schedules, weighted blankets, and pencil grips. So, let’s get started!
Table of Contents
1. Visual Schedules: A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words
For many kids, especially those with thinking and learning differences, understanding and following routines can be challenging. That’s where visual schedules come in handy. These low tech assistive technology tools use pictures, symbols, or words to represent daily activities, helping kids to grasp the sequence of events, transition smoothly between tasks, and develop independence and self-regulation.
Creating a visual schedule is simple and cost-effective. You can use a whiteboard, poster board, or even a notebook. Add images or words to represent each activity, and arrange them in the order they occur. To make it more interactive, consider using Velcro or magnets so your child can move the items as they complete each task. Remember to keep it clear, concise, and visually appealing. Goally’s learning tablet, for example, offers a customizable visual schedule app that can be just for your child’s needs.
Customize visual schedules that teach kids independence. No more nagging, no more stress.
2. Weighted Blankets: A Hug for the Senses
Many neurodivergent kids experience sensory sensitivities, which can make it difficult for them to relax and focus. Weighted blankets, a popular low tech assistive technology, can provide a calming effect by simulating the feeling of a gentle hug. This deep pressure stimulation can help kids reduce anxiety and stress, improve sleep quality, and enhance focus and attention.
When choosing a weighted blanket, aim for one that’s approximately 10% of your child’s body weight. Be sure to consult with a healthcare professional before using a weighted blanket, especially for younger kids or those with specific medical conditions. With various sizes, weights, and materials available, you can find the perfect option to suit your child’s needs. Goally also offers a range of sensory tools, including weighted blankets, to support your child’s sensory needs.
3. Pencil Grips: A Steady Hand for Writing Success
Writing can be a struggle for many kids, particularly those with fine motor challenges or sensory issues. Pencil grips, a low tech assistive technology solution, can make a world of difference by improving hand positioning and grip, reducing hand fatigue and discomfort, and enhancing writing control and legibility.
Read more: Kids Learning Toys
There’s a wide variety of pencil grips on the market, from simple foam sleeves to more specialized ergonomic designs. To find the best fit for your child, experiment with different styles and materials. Don’t forget to involve your kid in the selection process, as their comfort and preferences are crucial for success. In addition to pencil grips, Goally’s learning tablet offers apps designed to help kids with fine motor skills and handwriting practice.
Goally | Apps To Support Child Development
Looking for fun ways to help your child learn life skills? Try Goally! The Goally tablet comes with award-winning learning apps and video classes to help kids develop the skills they need to become independent with FUN & evidence-based practices.
Our apps teach executive function, language, emotional regulation, finger dexterity skills, and more.
As your child develops new skills, you can increase the difficulty level of the tasks in the app to challenge and motivate them even further. This helps your child grow and progress at their own pace, while also keeping them engaged and excited about their development.
Unlock Your Child’s Potential with Low Tech Assistive Technology
Low tech assistive technology isn’t complicated or expensive to make a significant impact on your child’s life. By incorporating tools like visual schedules, weighted blankets, and pencil grips, you can support your neurodivergent child’s learning and development in meaningful ways. Remember, every child is unique, so it’s essential to tailor these solutions to their specific needs and preferences. With a little creativity and persistence, you can help your child overcome challenges and unlock their full potential. Explore Goally’s range of products and apps to find the perfect low tech assistive technology solutions for your child.
This post was originally published on 05/24/2023. It was updated on 09/05/2023.
Goally
We help parents teach their kids life skills, like doing bedtime and morning independently. Backed by science, we incorporate evidence-based practices and expert-informed designs in all of our apps and content.
