Hot Topics
Hot topics are categorized according to the topics listed in the "Table of Contents" below. Either scroll down the page or click the links to go straight to the desired heading for information on a specific topic.
Please feel free to send comments, requests, or additions to the advisory committee in care of Maureen Melonis.
Table of Contents:
Topic of Discussion:
Early Childhood and Assistive Technology
When people hear the word technology, they often think of computers, but, assistive technology includes many simple adaptations and modifications that are beneficial for infants and toddlers too. For example, something as simple as a rolled towel can help a child with motor difficulties to prop up on their elbows. A large weighted spoon may make it easier to eat. Teaching young children gestures or sign language can help them learn to communicate. All these are examples of assistive technology for early childhood. This “Hot Topics” will explore various resources, web sites and assistive technology solutions for early childhood. Some of the many benefits of using AT with young children include improving self esteem, reducing child and adult frustration, and enabling independence in daily life. In addition, AT can change the expectations of others for a child's abilities and enable active play, rather than passive, which is crucial to child development.
Cool Ideas and Resources:
The highlights below feature useful resources to increase use of assistive technology for young children ages birth to three years. These are just a few ideas and resources which may be helpful.
Library Backpacks
Through a relationship between the Colorado Department of Education Early Childhood Connections of Douglas and Arapahoe Counties, the Douglas County Library and Assistive Technology Partners, at UCD, adapted backpacks are available for loan to families in local libraries.
The backpacks became available in mid-2005 for short-term loans in four Arapahoe and Douglas libraries. They proved so valuable, that libraries cannot keep them on the shelves. The backpacks contain books and toys relevant to a particular theme (farms, music, all about me, bugs). Parents can check out the backpacks from the library and use them to interact with their children at home. The backpacks contain resource cards with ideas for play with children with various disabilities.
AT Early Childhood Specialists- This link takes you to the list of early childhood resource specialists throughout Colorado.
Training and Professional Development Opportunities
Training Resources
Last Updated: October 12, 2009
