For most of us, communication is as simple as a thought turned into a word or gesture. But for severely autistic people attempts to communicate what they want or need often leads to frustration and anger.  It wasn’t until the invention of touch-screen apps designed for tablet computers such as the iPad, that autistic people found new ways to express themselves.  This breakthrough technology from Apple is seen as heaven-sent from teachers and parents because it is allowing those trapped behind a wall of silence to finally express knowledge and emotion.

    It’s not overstated to say that the iPad changed lives. Among the most passionate supporters are parents of children with severe forms of autism, especially those who can't speak and appear hopelessly locked inside themselves.  For years, these parents knew that their kids understood more and knew more than they were able to communicate. Now, with the iPad being used throughout the autism community they know for sure. 

    Prior to the iPad’s “touch and swipe” screen, many who suffered from autism had to poke out words on a piece of paper – one letter at a time. Now, the Apple iPad has become a “voice” allowing those with severe autism to convey their wants and needs. There are also special language apps, pictures, video and symbols that can be downloaded to help with expression.

    In addition to providing a means of communication for those who can’t speak or have language delays, there are apps that help children learn social skills and develop fine-motor skills for writing and manipulating small objects.  But finding the right apps can be daunting. According to experts in the field, here are a few websites that can help:

iPad Apps for Autism: http://www.squidalicious.com/2011/01/ipad-apps-for-autism-spreadsheet-of.html  These apps are categorized into interests such as art, language and music.

Among the developers recommended are: Injini, Toca Boca, Duck Duck Moose and Oceanhouse Media 

Other sites recommended for app listings include: http://techinspecialed.com/ and  http://slpsharing.com/

http://www.snapps4kids.com/, is an excellent program of the Easter Seals and lists more than 700 apps

http://www.a4cwsn.com stands for Apps for Children With Special Needs, and features 500 endorsed apps.

http://www.iAutism.info This database contains over 400 apps for iPad/iPhone and nearly 70 for Android.  The site also includes Spanish and other foreign language apps.

See Disaboom related story: http://www.disaboom.com/houston-tx/snapps4kids-cutting-edge-program-for-kids-with-special-needs