Benefits of Early Childhood AT Training
- Sam Shepherd
- Jul 30, 2024
- 4 min read
By Kayla Lindsay
Introduction
Developmental disabilities encompass a broad spectrum of conditions that affect a child's physical, cognitive, and emotional development. These disabilities can present challenges in communication, learning, and other daily activities. Assistive technology (AT) has become an essential tool in addressing these challenges. Early training in AT can significantly benefit young children with developmental disabilities versus those who have not received early AT intervention, by supporting diverse learning styles and providing them with opportunities to learn how to better navigate their daily lives as they grow into adolescence and adulthood [8, 9, 13].
Enhanced Communication Skills
One of the most critical areas, where assistive technology has proven beneficial is in communication. Children with developmental disabilities, such as autism spectrum disorder or cerebral palsy, may experience difficulties with verbal communication. Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices, including text-to-speech software and communication boards, can provide these children with the means to express their needs and interact with others [1, 2, 3, 4, 7, 8]. Training in these technologies ensures that children can use them effectively, leading to improved social interactions [4].
Improved Learning and Academic Achievement
Assistive technology can also play a crucial role in supporting academic learning. Tools such as interactive educational applications, and specialized computer programs can cater to various learning needs and styles with the assistance of special education teachers, speech therapists and classroom paraprofessionals [1, 2]. Previous research done by ALSO [6] has shown that about 22% of individuals with developmental disabilities have received less than a high school education. Evidence such as this shows the importance of early AT intervention in education to help increase academic improvement. Early AT intervention can significantly impact a child’s literacy development [2]. The use of AT within the classroom allows students with developmental disabilities to acquire their literacy skills such as reading and writing skills, at a rate that matches their typically-developing peers rather than falling behind. For instance, a non-verbal child with autism might benefit from text-to-speech technology, which helps them access written material in an auditory format. By incorporating AT into the educational environment and training children to use these tools early on, educators can help bridge gaps in learning and provide a more inclusive educational experience, as well as strive with academic progress at an early age [5, 6, 7, 8, 9].
Increased Independence and Self-Esteem
The use of assistive technology can significantly enhance a child's independence. Devices that aid with mobility, daily living skills, and organization can empower children to perform tasks on their own. For example, a range of both low- and high-tech AT such as adaptive keyboards, mouse devices or pencil grips can help children with fine motor difficulties [6 ,11, 12]. Time management software, assistive listening devices, and others can help assist a child in their unique needs. According to the World Bank in 2018, many individuals reach their young adulthood lacking the basic life skills to carry out their daily activities; this is in part due to poor access to tools as well as lack of early intervention [6]. Early intervention of different assistive tools can help a child form stability in their own self-care. This increased independence fosters a sense of accomplishment and self-esteem, as children experience success and autonomy in their daily lives.
Support for Social Interaction and Inclusion
Social skills development is another vital aspect of childhood, and AT can support this by facilitating better interaction with peers. Social skills training programs that incorporate AT can help children understand social cues, practice communication, and engage in group activities. Technologies that enable interactive play or collaborative tasks can promote inclusion and help children build meaningful relationships with their peers as they grow older.
Early Intervention and Long-Term Benefits
The benefits of AT training are maximized when introduced early in a child's development, as it can help them reach their fullest potential in all areas of their life from education, employment, self-care and social activities. Early intervention allows for the gradual integration of technology into the child's routine, making it a natural part of their learning and development. Long-term, this early exposure can lead to better outcomes in terms of academic success, social integration, and personal independence [3, 5, 6]. By investing in AT training at a young age, families and educators can guide the continued growth and development throughout the child's life.
It is important to note that for early AT training to occur and be successful, educators need to be trained effectively before leading the children in the use of these technologies [1, 2, 10]. There is an array of resources and opportunities to consider when considering early intervention. It can take shape in specialized support groups, facilitate peer-to-peer activities with different technologies, computer lab sessions that showcase tools to use for different purposes and more. The opportunities are limitless and it shows the importance for equity in access to the different technological tools as well as the quality of these tools in order for intervention to be successful [6]. Here are some AT training resources to explore: Training Resources on AT - Assistive Technology and Education and Training.
Sources:
Introduction to Assistive Technology (AT) for Young Learners
Benefits of Assistive Technology for Students With Disabilities
Assistive Technology in Education: Tools for Disabled Students in the Classroom
How Can Technology Assist Children with Developmental Disabilities?
How Assistive Technology Can Help Children with Communication Difficulties
