April 2 marks World Autism Awareness Day, continuing into Autism Awareness Month. Research shows that early intervention and technologies can significantly help children with autism, helping to enhance communication and social skills.
iPads are essential tools for such therapy with apps and online resources encouraging independence, allowing kids to express their desires and better connect with others. One in 50 school-aged children in the U.S. are diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders, a 72% increase from 2007, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
iOS devices and other digital tools have significantly impacted developmental interactions in children with autism, says Joanne Lara, founder and president of Autism Movement Therapy. Most kids are automatically drawn to the computer, but those with autism often take to the devices because of the focus provided — they may not be as confused by where to look, as compared with other environments.
"Children with autism can communicate in amazing ways through iPads, they say amazing things that otherwise we'd have no way of knowing their thought process," Lara tells Mashable. "It gives those with limited communication skills a platform to let us know not just his wants and needs, but who he is."
Augmentative and Alternative Communication apps like Proloquo2Golet users tap symbols or icons to produce speech. Others, like Social Skills, help children learn to express emotions and understand what others are feeling.
Personalized tools aren't the only valuable resources. In time for World Autism Awareness Day, interactive Q&A platform ShareCare released its top 10 autism bloggers who lead online conversations with shared advice, tips and and support for the disorder.
We've gathered recommended apps and resources for Autism Awareness Month. Check out the gallery above and let us know if you know of any other useful apps or tools.
Image courtesy of Flickr,
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