iLove It!

For the past five years, we've used all kinds of gadgets to help Natalie learn new skills.  From the simple, like squeaky toys, to the more complex, like switches...we've tried it all.  Some things she really responds well to, and others are not such a bit hit.

What I've learned in the past five years is that a toy, no matter how simple, when labeled as "medical equipment," becomes incredibly expensive.  

This plastic toy ball?  It can be yours for the low, low price of $63.95!

This "gait trainer," which helps kids with disabilities learn to walk, seems pretty simple.  It's only $1390.00.

This is a switch.  I learned what a switch was early on in Natalie's life.  It's basically a big button that, when pressed, plays a recorded sound.  It can also be hooked into compatible toys and makes the toys start and stop with each press of the button.  It may seem a bit complicated, but it's really a very simple "toy."  It helps Natalie learn cause and effect.  Hopefully, one day she can use a switch to tell us she is hungry, wants to dance, etc.

 It's a great tool, but this small switch costs $136.95.

While all of these toys and tools are good, we have found something that is much better in so many ways.

The iPad!

I can't express to you in words how over-the-moon excited I am about the iPad.  It's great for so many reasons:

1.  The smallest touch from Natalie triggers a response from the iPad.

2.  It's lightweight and can sit on Natalie's lap while she plays with it.

3.  It's small and easy to transport.

4.  There are a MILLION apps, and new apps available every day.  

5.  It's FUN!  

This is an app called "Magic Piano."  Natalie loves music and can make her own music by touching the piano.  There are apps made specifically for kids with disabilities, but we mainly use apps that are used by all.

I like to wait until evening and turn off all of the lights so she just sees the glow of the screen.  She seems to focus best when I do this.

 Of course, Calvin is never far from the iPad, too.  He loves to help her out, even when he's not supposed to help!  He's very sweet about it though, and she loves it.

One of my biggest pet peeves is when toys or equipment for kids (or even adults!) with disabilities look like medical equipment.  They deserve to have nice looking stuff just like the rest of us!  That's why I'm happy that technology for the rest of us is available as a learning device for Natalie.  The possibilities are endless!