What You Need When Your Child Needs Support From Technologies
What is Assistive Technology?
Assistive technology (AT) is an umbrella term that includes assistive, adaptive, and rehabilitative devices for people with disabilities. AT is any hardware, software, device or tool designed to help a user increase, maintain or improve their functional capacities. AT can be as low-tech as a magnifying glass, or as high-tech as computer software. There are many different types of AT and adaptive equipment available to help people with disabilities participate in the classroom, workplace and in their communities.
Where Can I Learn About the Different Types of Assistive Technology?
There are many different types of AT. It’s important to learn about the different types in order to find out what may be right for you or your loved one.
How Can Assistive Technology Be Added to an Individual's IEP?
Assistive technology enables children with disabilities to participate more fully in all aspects of life (home, school, and community) and helps them access their right to a ―free appropriate, public education, in the least restrictive environment. The IEP team must determine whether an individual child needs an assistive technology device or service. It is possible that an assistive technology evaluation will be required to determine if the child would need an assistive technology service and/or assistive technology device. Any needs identified should be reflected in the content of the IEP, including, as appropriate, the instructional program and services provided to the child.
- Considering Assistive Technology
- Assistive Technology Devices and Services
- Assistive Technology
- Q&A: Assistive Technology & Special Education
State Services
PerformCare (for children under 21):
If your loved one has been found eligible for state services through PerformCare, you may qualify for Developmental Disability Family Support Services. Family Support Services are intended to help provided services to uncompensated caregivers caring for a loved one in their own home. Types of Family Support Services include: Respite, Summer Camp Assistance, Assistive Technology Devices, and Home and Vehicle Modifications.
Resources:
Division of Developmental Disabilities (For adults 21 and over):
The Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) provides public funding for services and supports that assist New Jersey adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities age 21 and older to live as independently as possible. If your loved one has been found eligible for DDD, you may qualify for Family Support Services. Family Support Services are intended to help provided services to uncompensated caregivers caring for a loved one in their own home. Types of Family Support Services include: Respite, Summer Camp Assistance, Assistive Technology Devices, and Home and Vehicle Modifications.
Resources:
New Jersey Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services (18 and over AND school entitlement has ended - does offer some student transition services)
What services does DVRS provide?
The Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services (DVRS) serves any eligible individual with a physical, mental, cognitive, or other disability that has an impairment that prevents the person from finding or maintaining employment. Once such service it may provide is Assistive Technology Evaluations.
Resources:
- DVRS Home Page
- DVRS FAQ
- DVRS Contact Information
- DVRS Referral for Assistive Technology Services Form
- CARTWHEEL Directory:
For a comprehensive list of Assistive Technology devices, apps, and other software/hardware, visit our Website Resources page HERE.
