Touch Screen Activities for Autism

Autism is a developmental disorder that occurs before a child reaches the age of three. The Centers for Disease Control and Preventions (CDC) report that one in 110 children born in America has autism, part of a group of developmental problems referred to as autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The disorders vary, but all affect how a child interacts and communicates with others. According to the Mayo Clinic, at this time no cure exist for autism. Assistive technology has been used by children and adults with autism to help boost academic, attention, communication, motivation, language, organization and social skills -- among others. A variety of touch-screen activities exist that have lessened ASD symptoms.

Assistive Technology

• Assistive technology is any product or equipment used to maintain, improve or increase functional capabilities among people with disabilities. An assistive technology service helps a person directly with their disability while using some type of assistive device.

Equipment For Touch Screen Activities

• There are a number of devices that feature touch screens.  The HTC Flyer Tablet, the Apple iPad and the Barnes & Noble Nook are tablet computers and e-readers that feature touch screens. There are also a number of computers and laptops that feature touch screens.

iPad Applications for Touch Screen Activities

• There are a number of touch screen activities for autism that can be used on the iPad. ABA Therapy Images, Communicating Basic Needs, Game Factory and My Healthy Smile are a few of the touch screen activities "Autism Speaks" includes on their list of apps. ABA Therapy Images is used to help autistic individuals with visual stimulation and also a tool for therapists. Communicating Basic Needs is used by children who are non-verbal. The application allows them to easily communicate with those around them. Game Factory is similar to flash cards. The application allows parents to use their own images as a teaching tool. My Healthy Smile, designed by Delta Dental, explains to people what they can expect during a dentist visit. This application offers visuals as well as sound.

Danger

• Autism advocate Areva Martin told Fox News that the iPad is just like other gadgets and these devices should not be overused. Stephen Shore, author of "Understanding Autism for Dummies," noted the iPad was helpful and a way for individuals with autism to explore and communicate with the outside world.