Technology helps disabled kids find their voice

By John M Grohol PsyD

For all the naysayers of technology and computers, here’s another example of how computers can enrich children’s lives, specifically those with learning disabilities. It’s amazing what they’re doing nowadays with those danged things!

Laptop computers that combine features from popular toys with innovative technology have rapidly accelerated the learning and communication ability of disabled children, Penn State researchers say. The technology could in the future be adapted to victims of major accidents and the elderly as well.

According to Janice Light, distinguished professor of communication sciences and disorders at Penn State, more than 2 million Americans are unable to use speech to communicate, and children are a major component of this population. “Kids learn and communicate through speech by trying out new words and forming sentences,” says Light. “f they can’t do that due to problems such as autism, Down syndrome, and cerebral palsy, then it is going to be difficult to learn how to read and write, make friends, and communicate their needs.”

Dr. John Grohol is the CEO and founder of Psych Central. He has been writing about online behavior, mental health and psychology issues, and the intersection of technology and psychology since 1992.