When we think about helping students thrive in school, we often imagine teachers, classrooms, and lesson plans. But there is another powerful tool that can make a significant difference for children with disabilities: Assistive Technology (AT).
For many families, AT can feel like a confusing or intimidating concept. What is it? How does it help? And most importantly, how do you make sure your child has access to the right tools through their IEP?
At J&J Learning Services LLC, we help parents understand how AT works, what options exist, and how to make sure their child receives the support they need.
What Is Assistive Technology?
Assistive Technology (AT) is any item, device, software, or equipment that helps a student with a disability access the curriculum and participate more fully in school. AT can be something very simple or very high-tech—what matters most is that it meets the unique needs of the child.
Examples of Assistive Technology
AT comes in many forms, including:
- Low-Tech Tools: Pencil grips, slant boards, highlighters, or graphic organizers.
- Mid-Tech Tools: Audio books, speech-to-text software, text-to-speech readers, or electronic spell checkers.
- High-Tech Tools: Communication devices, specialized apps on tablets, screen readers, or advanced computer software.
The key is that AT is not “one-size-fits-all.” What helps one child may not help another. That’s why evaluation and customization are so important.
How AT Benefits Students
The right AT can:
- Support independence in learning and communication.
- Provide access to the general education curriculum.
- Reduce frustration and build confidence.
- Help students demonstrate what they know in ways that work best for them.
Ultimately, AT helps level the playing field, ensuring that students with disabilities have the tools to reach their potential.
Where AT Appears in the IEP
If your child needs Assistive Technology, it should be clearly written into the Individualized Education Program (IEP). Here’s where to look:
- Special Factors Section: The IEP team must consider whether your child needs AT devices or services. This is typically where AT is first addressed.
- Present Levels of Performance: Describes how AT helps your child access learning.
- Accommodations/Modifications: Lists specific AT supports (e.g., “student will use text-to-speech software for reading assignments”).
- Goals and Objectives: AT may be included as a tool to help your child achieve their goals.
- Services/Supports Section: If AT training or ongoing support is required, it should also be written here.
It’s important that AT is not just “talked about” but documented in writing—so the school is required to provide it.
How JJLS Supports Families
At J&J Learning Services LLC, we guide parents through the process of understanding and securing AT for their child. We:
- Help families prepare for IEP meetings with the right questions to ask.
- Ensure AT discussions are thorough and individualized.
- Review IEP documents to confirm AT is properly documented.
- Connect families with resources and training to use AT effectively at home and school.
Final Thoughts
Assistive Technology is not about giving children an unfair advantage—it’s about giving them equal access to learning. Whether it’s a simple tool like a pencil grip or advanced software that gives a child a voice, AT can change the way a student experiences education.
If your child needs Assistive Technology, JJLS is here to help you advocate for it and make sure it’s written into the IEP where it belongs. Together, we can ensure your child has the tools they need to thrive.
👉 JJLS Tip: At your next IEP meeting, ask: “Has the team considered Assistive Technology for my child?” This one question can open doors to powerful supports.
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