Practice 

Many individuals with autism are unable to use Assistive Technology or AAC in a functional manner simply because their disability interferes with their ability to focus and to attend.  Special educators, speech and language pathologists,  and assistive technology professionals should strive to find a strategy to help individuals with autism access assistive technology and learn to communicate, despite their difficulties with attention and focusing. 

Supported Typing offers the supports necessary for many individuals with autism to communicate in a meaningful way, often for the very first time.  The goal of Supported Typing is independent typing, but that takes time and practice.  

For some individuals, independent typing can be reached in months, and for others, it might take years.  There is a direct correlation between the amount of practice and the ability to become independent as quickly as possible.  Individuals are encouraged to use Supported Typing in all aspects of their lives, including school and family time, as often as possible.

At STAR, we work 1:1 with individuals and their communication partners to help determine a practice schedule to meet their needs.  We can meet with teams weekly, bi-monthly or monthly for both practice and coaching.  Let us help you get started!