Give kids a voice: iPads for Autism

Summer is sizzling here in Pensacola! Like the past 9 summers, many of our kids are busy and learning at our Summer Learning Lab. This summer, in response to the needs of many of our children, we are happy to announce that Give Kids a Voice has expanded. At our Summer Learning Lab Camp, we have realized that some families have an iPad, provided by another program or perhaps a generous grandparent. Other families save and save to purchase the iPad, only to discover they don't have the funds needed for apps that will support communication.

As a result of this need, Autism Pensacola recently expanded our program to offer support for families recommended by our Summer Learning Lab staff who were in need of either an iPad for communication or a communication app to go on a device they already own. All families were required to have individualized training to ensure they understood how to use the iPad for communication.  This usually means blocking other uses of the device, at least until the child understands the value of the communication tool.  We have just awarded 2 new iPads as well as provided 5 families with communications apps and training on their use.

"We are ecstatic to receive this app for our children" state Angela O., mother of two children on the autism spectrum as well as a new baby.  "Both our children need to work on conversation skills. We've tried the free communication apps, but they don't provide the tools we need.  We plan to have their teachers help with the ProLoQuo App and are confident we will see a burst of communication.  Thank you, Autism Pensacola and Global Giving donors, for providing this opportunity!"

Autumn W. is so excited to add a communication app to the iPad she already received after taking our Parent Empowerment Program.  "I know this is going to be the tool that truly makes the iPad our son's voice. We are so grateful!"

We are looking forward to sharing even more success stories in the next few months as these families put these tools to use. Thank you for your support of 'Give Kids a Voice'! You are the reason these families have so much hope this summer!