15 Empowering Resources for Persons of ALL Ages with Autism

As many of our blog readers may know, April is World Autism Month. It is a dedicated time to help raise awareness for autism and the 1 in 68 children as well as the many adults challenged with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD). You may also know that when provided with appropriate resources and family as well as community support, persons challenged with the symptoms of autism spectrum disorders can live productive lives and in many cases thrive within their supportive communities.

It is important to also keep in mind that the right tools, strategies and resources can significantly improve one’s learning success, too, especially when reading and learning can be difficult for someone with autism, ADHD, dyslexia or other issues. If you or someone you know is challenged with an ASD, however, the significance of those tools, strategies and resources may be even more important in efforts to improve the quality of life. You may already know about physical and digital tools that effectively help challenged, unfocused readers with autism and sensory issues. A FREE list of reading and learning strategies to help persons of any age with autism (and other issues, too) can be found here.

For this article, we wanted to address the third component---resources that can actually help to EMPOWER children and adults with autism to become more confident, more socially interactive and better able to overcome their obstacles. In our efforts to write this article, we have received the assistance of Ms. Kathleen Carter, a high-school student with autism who has been a volunteer-intern-extraordinaire at EducatorLabs. She assisted the organization with its research and outreach activities.

Ms. Carter kindly provided the first six empowering resources in our list included here. We want to thank her for these good resources for autism. We have added a few more links to the list and hope that because of our combined efforts, these resources may help you or others you know in the autism community to feel empowered to become more confident, more comfortable in social situations and more independent in overcoming the challenges of autism---each and every day!

Empowering Resources for Persons with Autism

1. Autism Speaks Resource Guide
http://www.autismspeaks.org/family-services/resource-guide

2. Career Assistance for People with Autism
http://www.hloom.com/career-assistance-for-people-with-autism/

3. National Center for Autism Resources & Education
https://www.nationalautismresources.com/?utm_source=bing&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=Brand&utm_term=%2Bnational%20%2Bautism%20%2Bresources&utm_content=Trademark%20-%20Brand

4. AutismNOW Transition Planning
http://autismnow.org/in-the-classroom/transition-planning-for-students/

5. Aquatic Therapy for Children with Autism
http://www.saveonpoolsupplies.com/landing/aquatic-therapy-for-children-with-autism.aspx

6. Autism Services
http://healthfinder.gov/FindServices/SearchContext.aspx?topic=81

7. Equine Therapy Programs for Children with Autism
https://www.equestriantherapy.com/equine-therapy-children-aspergers-autism/

8. Autism Resources from Easter Seals
http://www.easterseals.com/explore-resources/living-with-autism/autism-resources.html

9. Family Grant Opportunities (for Therapy, Assistive Technology, etc.)
https://www.autismspeaks.org/family-services/resource-library/family-grant-opportunities

10. Resources - Solutions to Problems in the Autism Community-US Autism & Asperger Association
http://www.usautism.org/resources.html

11. BEST Apps for Sensory Processing Issues (iPad, Android and Desktop Apps)
http://helpforstrugglingreaders.blogspot.com/2015/04/best-apps-for-sensory-processing-issues.html

12. BEST Apps for Autism(iPad, Android and Desktop Apps)
http://helpforstrugglingreaders.blogspot.com/2015/01/best-apps-for-autism-2015.html

13. NEW Reading Focus Cards App for Windows 10 PCs (via Windows Store)
https://www.microsoft.com/store/apps/9WZDNCRDF33D

14. NEW Reading Focus Cards App for Windows XP, 7, 8 & 10 PCs (via Gumroad.com)
Click on drop down to version preferred.
https://gumroad.com/l/ReadingFocusCards

15. Physical Reading Focus Cards Tools for Challenged Readers
(For Reading Actual Books & Documents)
http://www.focusandread.com/products

For more information on customizable tools for challenged readers with autism:
www.FocusandRead.com Tools for struggling readers of all ages!
www.BrennanInnovators.com Info & support for struggling readers
314-892-3897

Image courtesy of: Brennan Innovators, LLC: www.FocusandRead.com and Pixabay: https://pixabay.com

25 Helpful LD Transition Resources: From High School to College

Part 1 of a two-part series

Many of our readers may be aware that it can be more than a little challenging to access the resources needed and the support required to significantly help students with LD (learning disabilities). As a student with special needs progresses through the educational system, more than a few parents discover that they must wear many hats. At times, these parents are compelled to both research and navigate various channels to locate much-needed LD resources and then advocate for their children so that they can actually access those resources. Sometimes after wearing the hats of researchers and legal professionals among others, these parents must also become persistent "warriors" who battle with school districts and their officials to provide their children with the resources deserved.

Later, when these same students with LD approach the ages of 17 or 18 and prepare to "make the leap" from high school to college or even a vocational school, the challenges become even more daunting for them and their parents. The resources available for assisting challenged students with this transitioning (as it is often called) at this level are too often limited. In addition with the current decreases in funding for these needs, those programs or resources that do exist are falling in number and/or experiencing a lower level of funding. This is particularly noteworthy when approximately 11.1% of all U.S. college undergraduates enrolled, had a disability in the 2011-2012 school year.

At a time when the number of individuals with diagnoses of ADHD, dyslexia and autism is markedly on the rise, it is a real concern for parents (as well as society) that needed resources are increasingly more difficult to locate and access for these students with additional needs. For this reason, we wanted to provide a list of LD Transition Resources for our readers, a list intended particularly for students making the transition from high school to college or a vocational school. This list is a general one that includes special needs study resources, names if colleges that accommodate students with additional needs, helpful apps for LD students at this educational level and more. We hope you will discover at least a few resources here to help a teen with learning challenges more easily make the leap from high school to to college.

Study Skills & Test-Prep Resources for Older Students w/ LD

1. Study Skills for Students
Proven tips and techniques for studying smarter... not harder. This article also includes an extensive list of links to General Study Skills Guides, Text-Taking Guides, Study Skills Resources by Subject and more!
http://www.educationcorner.com/study-skills.html

2. Organization and Study Tips and Ideas to Prepare for College
This web page provides ideas and information pertaining to organizational ideas and study tips that can be used in a college environment. Each individual students learns, processes, and retains information differently. As a result, it is recommended that students adapt the organizational and study ideas on this page to fit their own needs and strengths.
http://www.collegeacademicsupport.com/studytools.html

3. Helpful Focusing Tools for Books, Technology & More!
To study effectively---whether offline or online, it does matter which tools and strategies you use consistently.
http://www.focusandread.com/blog/post/3649064

4. 10 Helpful Steps for Test-Taking Success
Whether it's a unit test, mid-term or final exam that's looming, you'll experience much more success if you plan for it. Here are ten of the most helpful steps to improve your test-taking success (presented in a bulleted format for your convenience and ease of use).
http://helpforstrugglingreaders.blogspot.com/2015/12/10-helpful-steps-for-test-taking-success.html

5. Test-Taking Tips for Students with Dyslexia & Other Reading Challenges
Now is the time to prepare WELL for tests. Here are a few tips to share that could make your next testing session much more successful (AND even less stressful!), especially if you are a student with dyslexia or other reading challenge. We hope you will read and review these tips, making plans to follow through on their use.
http://helpforstrugglingreaders.blogspot.com/2014/10/test-taking-tips-for-students-with.html

6. How to Get Your Student Accommodations on College Entry Exams (for High School Students w/ Dyslexia)
by Marianne Sunderland, author of Abundant Life blog
This is one article in a 10-article series entitled Preparing Your Student with Dyslexia for College Success. Includes information about how to get accommodations on ACT and SAT tests for students with this LD.
http://www.mariannesunderland.com/2013/10/22/dyslexia-accommodations-sat-act/

Colleges & Vocational Schools for Students w/ LD

1. The 18 Best Colleges for Students with Learning Disabilities
by Francesca Fulciniti, PrepScholar
http://blog.prepscholar.com/the-18-best-colleges-for-students-with-learning-disabilities

2. Colleges with Structured, Fee-For-Service Learning Disability or ADD Support Programs
A state-by-state list of colleges that provide fee-for-service programs for LD and ADHD. Special note: Remember to check admissions procedures for each college. In most cases, you must get admitted to the college through regular channels before you can apply to the special program.
http://www.ldadvisory.com/colleges_fee_for_service/

3. 10 Impressive Special College Programs for Students with Autism
http://www.bestcollegesonline.com/blog/10-impressive-special-college-programs-for-students-with-autism/

4. 15 College Programs for Kids With Learning and Attention Issues
https://www.understood.org/en/school-learning/choosing-starting-school/leaving-high-school/15-college-programs-for-kids-with-learning-and-attention-issues

5. Overview of College Resources for Students with Disabilities
Prospective college students with disabilities will find that many campuses are equipped with offices and services that address accessibility, accommodation, and assistive technology for a diverse range of needs. Student services offices and disability coordinators at many colleges work to make campuses inclusive environments through specialized advocacy, support & academic services.
http://www.bestcolleges.com/resources/disabled-students/

6. Online and Local Vocational Schools Locator Tool
This online tool can help you locate trade schools and vocational programs. Please contact those considered for special needs or LD accommodations and provisions. An online degree may also be an option for you. Online learning may be great for people who have busy lives. Many online students have children, demanding jobs, or both. If this sounds like you, it's possible that studying at an online trade school or vocational school may be right for you.
http://www.educationconnection.com/landingpages/vocational-generic/?trackid=58468742-d861-4e89-b09c-98fad73db000&key=go_vocational+school&v=google&a=mscansaroli.mobile%40gmail.com&c=vocational-new&cat=vocational+school&mt=search&ad=53866617177&est=vocational%20school&emt=p&device=c&aid=ec_google_degree-vocational_ads_desktop&mkwid=[distribution][uniq_id]_dc&pcrid=[creative_id]&pkw=[keyword_text]&pmt=[matchtype]&gclid=CPH3ksyj2swCFdM2gQodLMYAjw

Apps & Other Assistive Technologies for Students w/ LD

1. iPad Apps for Students & Adults with Learning Disabilities, ADHD & Autism Spectrum Disorders
This PDF file provides a list of all kinds of iPad apps to help older students and adults with LD. The list includes timer apps, life-skills apps, file-sharing apps, handwriting apps, math apps and more for use both in and outside the classroom (prices and direct links also included).
https://www.ldas.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/ldapps.pdf

2. Low-tech & High-tech Reading Tools to Help Students & Adults with LD
Research-based and sensory-appealing tools for MORE focus and BETTER reading comprehension/retention. The physical and digital tools provided via this site are customizable and teacher-designed yet inexpensive.
http://www.focusandread.com/products

3. BEST ADHD Apps for Better Focus
List of PC, Mac, iPhone & Android apps (with links) that help promote more focus & attention for students with these challenges.
http://helpforstrugglingreaders.blogspot.com/2015/04/best-adhd-apps-for-better-focus.html

4. Reading & Spelling Programs for Students with Dyslexia
from DyslexiaHelp at the University of Michigan
The following is a list of some programs that have been developed for struggling readers and writers. Some were created specifically for dyslexia, like Orton-Gillingham.
http://dyslexiahelp.umich.edu/tools/reading-programs

5. Center for Assistive Technology and Environmental Access (CATEA)
CATEA is an established interdisciplinary research and design center devoted to applications of technology to alleviate problems of human need, providing service, research and education under the auspices of a world-class academic institution. Multiple Web resources, teleconferencing and new media production allow Center staff to provide technical assistance and information dissemination across the globe.
http://www.catea.org/

6. Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America (RESNA)
RESNA is an interdisciplinary association of people with a common interest in technology and disability. Their purpose is to improve the potential of people with disabilities to achieve their goals through the use of technology. They serve that purpose by promoting research, development, education, advocacy and provision of technology; and by supporting the people engaged in these activities.
http://www.resna.org/

7. Abledata
ABLEDATA provides objective information about assistive technology products and rehabilitation equipment available from domestic and international sources. Although ABLEDATA does not sell any products, they can help you locate the companies that do.
http://www.abledata.com

Other Secondary Transition Resources for Students w/ LD

1. Advice for the College Student (w/Dyslexia)
This article provides a good overview of "the system" and what students w/ dyslexia and other reading/learning challenges can expect with a secondary transition.
by Judy York, Director,Resource Office on Disabilities, Yale University
http://dyslexia.yale.edu/Stu_college.html

2. LD Transitions: High School to College
Pinterest board with a variety of resources for secondary transitioning with LD (ADHD, dyslexia, autism and other challenges)
https://www.pinterest.com/brennajn2000/ld-transitions-high-school-to-college/

3. Helpful Links from the LDadvisory.com's Blog
by Elizabeth C. Hamblet, LDT-C, M.S. Ed., M.A.T.
A collection of various links to help LD students successfully navigate the transition from high school to college.
http://www.ldadvisory.com/links/

4. Secondary Transition Resources for Students with Learning Disabilities
by Joan Azarva, Ms.ED, Conquer College with LD
Here are 60+ articles with resources to help high school students who transition to college, finding themselves facing a whole new set of challenges. Unfamiliar with the college system, they are prone to making poor judgments. Because college proceeds so rapidly (a typical semester is fifteen weeks), a few poor decisions can produce dire consequences. This significant collection of articles by a well-known college transition counselor and author should help students with LD make better decisions that result in a much more successful college experience.
http://ezinearticles.com/expert/Joan_Azarva/110963

5. Vocational and Trade Financial Aid Options
http://www.accreditedschoolsonline.org/vocational-trade-school/financial-aid-scholarships/

6. Online Colleges Scholarships and Financial Aid
http://www.accreditedschoolsonline.org/financial-aid/

Next week's article: LD Transition Resources: From High School to Employment---Part 2

For more information on customizable reading tools to improve focus and attention, please visit:
www.FocusandRead.com Tools for struggling readers of all ages!
www.BrennanInnovators.com Info & support for struggling readers
314-892-3897

Image courtesy of:
Brennan Innovators, LLC at www.focusandread.com

15 Resources and Tools to Help Challenged Kids Build Self-Esteem

Most parents and teachers know that a child's self-esteem level plays a significant part in learning and life success---both in and outside the classroom. When a child has reading or learning challenges, it is even more important to ensure the child develops a healthy level of self-esteem to see him through "the tough times" that can present themselves all too often.

For this article, we wanted to provide our readers with tools and resources to help parents and teachers with this sometimes-daunting task of helping a child or student with additional needs to develop a healthy level of confidence and self-esteem. Below, you may discover just the right resource, tool or combination of both to assist you in helping a child who needs just a bit more self-confidence in the classroom or simply in his day-to-day activities outside the classroom. We hope you will find that these resources will enhance the quality of life for a child or student you care about or serve.

Tools and Resources to Help Challenged Kids Build Self-Esteem

How to Boost Your Child's Self-Esteem: ADHD Parenting Advice---by Larry Silver, M.D. & ADDitude
Many kids with ADHD and learning disabilities also struggle with poor self-esteem. Here's how parents can help.
http://www.additudemag.com/adhd/article/1465.html

The Importance of Self-Esteem for Kids with Learning and Attention Issues---by Bob Cunningham & Understood
Children develop self-esteem by experiencing repeated successes. Children with learning and attention issues are at risk for low self-esteem. You can help your child develop positive self-esteem with some of the tips included in this article.
https://www.understood.org/en/friends-feelings/empowering-your-child/self-esteem/the-importance-of-self-esteem-for-kids-with-learning-and-attention-issues

Building Self-Esteem: The Emotional Needs of the Dyslexic Child---by Pauline Croxall & READyslexics
Good information to help both parents and teachers understand the emotional needs of a child/student with dyslexia. Provides a self-esteem inventory or checklist to assess a child’s needs as well.
http://readyslexics.com/web/about-dyslexia/building-self-esteem

Self-identity and self-esteem for teenagers with autism spectrum disorder---by Raising Children Network
During adolescence, your child with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is forming an independent identity. This is a normal and important part of becoming an adult, and you can do a lot to support your child and build his self-esteem along the way.
http://raisingchildren.net.au/articles/autism_spectrum_disorder_self_esteem_teenagers.html

12 Booster Activities for Kids with Down Syndrome---by Vicki Vila & Parents Magazine
These learning activities will help your child with cognitive and educational development as he grows.
http://www.parents.com/health/down-syndrome/booster-activities-for-kids-with-down-syndrome/

7 Ways to Build Confidence in Kids with Speech Disorders---by Chris O & speech buddies
Speech disorders and delays can not only effect how children are able to communicate, but also their confidence and self-esteem. When this happens, their behavior, learning, and relationships can be affected to various degrees. In fact, some researchers propose that kids with speech delays can be more at risk for things such as bullying because they can seem more reclusive. Here are a few ways, however, that parents, teachers, and caregivers can help build confidence and ease frustrations.
https://www.speechbuddy.com/blog/speech-disorders/7-ways-to-build-confidence-in-kids-with-speech-disorders/

Building Self-Esteem in Children with Special Needs---from the Special Education Guide
Self-esteem is always a concern for students with special needs. In a mainstreamed classroom, it’s not difficult to see students divide into groups. If you as a teacher are aware of this, you can take steps to ensure that the entire class is cohesive. For instance, there may not be a real peer group for the only student in class with visual impairment; therefore, you need to make certain that the entire class is a peer group. This is can be accomplished with help from this article.
http://www.specialeducationguide.com/pre-k-12/behavior-and-classroom-management/building-self-esteem-in-children-with-special-needs/

How to build your child’s self-esteem---by Randi Chapnik Myers & Today’s Parent
Simply praising your child can actually do more harm than good. Here’s a comprehensive guide to building self-esteem in children.
http://www.todaysparent.com/family/parenting/how-to-build-your-childs-self-esteem/

How to Build Healthy Self-Esteem in Children---by Sasha Emmons & Scholastic’s Parent & Child
In trying to boost kids’ self-esteem, we may be tearing it down. Learn how to build a healthy sense of confidence in children.
http://www.scholastic.com/parents/resources/article/praise-discipline/how-to-build-healthy-self-esteem-children

10 Ways to Help Your Child Build Self-Esteem---by Ivan Dimitrijevic & Lifehack
If you want to help your child build self-esteem, try out some of these strategies.
http://www.lifehack.org/articles/lifestyle/10-ways-help-your-child-build-self-esteem.html

7 Ways to Bring Out the Best in Special-Needs Students---by Thomas Armstrong & Education Week TEACHER
Here are seven ways that you can activate the strengths of your students with special needs, whether you run a full-inclusion classroom, a self-contained special ed classroom, or anything in between.
http://www.edweek.org/tm/articles/2013/04/08/fp_armstrong.html

Helping Your Child Build Self-Esteem---from family lives
Building self-esteem in children is an ongoing process and starts early. You can help to build your child’s self-esteem by letting them know how well they have done and how proud you are of them. The tips in this article can help.
http://www.familylives.org.uk/advice/primary/health-and-development/helping-your-child-build-self-esteem/

Tools to Help Build Self-Esteem in Kids with Reading & Learning Challenges

Dyslexia Toolkit---by Dr. Linda Silbert
Get your Dyslexia Toolkit here in one simple step (requires online registration). Extensive research has shown that children learn best when they are engaged and having fun. That’s why every activity in this guide is designed for children to have fun while learning to read. This is especially important for the child with dyslexia! In this FREE downloadable book from Dr. Silbert, you’ll find activities to use again and again to help improve reading skills at all levels.
http://drlindasblog.com/dyslexia-toolkit/ and http://drlindasblog.com/ty-dyslexia/

Reading Focus Cards Low-Tech & Digital Desktop Tools (Patents 7,565,759 & 8,360,779)---from Brennan Innovators, LLC
Inexpensive yet innovative tools to help improve focus, tracking, comprehension and retention when reading either physical or digital media (for Macs & PCs). This comprehensive reading tools system can make all the difference in reading success for children and adults with ADHD, dyslexia, autism, stroke, brain injury and other conditions that often impact reading ability.
Physical Tools: http://www.focusandread.com/products
Digital Desktop App: http://www.focusandread.com/page/488513590

FREE Printable: CHILDREN'S SELF-ESTEEM---by Kristin Zolten, M.A. & Nicholas Long, Ph.D., Department of Pediatrics, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (Artwork by Scott Snider)
Self-esteem can be defined as how people feel about themselves. Children's levels of self-esteem are evident in their behavior and attitudes. If children feel good about themselves, these good feelings will be reflected in how they relate to friends, teachers, siblings, parents, and others. This article provides some useful facts and tips to assist adults in helping to build a child’s self-esteem.
http://www.parenting-ed.org/handouts/self%20esteem.pdf

For information on customizable low-tech & digital reading tools for challenged readers with ADHD, please visit:
www.FocusandRead.com Tools for struggling readers of all ages!
www.BrennanInnovators.com Info and support for struggling readers
314-892-3897

Images courtesy of:
Brennan Innovators, LLC at www.focusandread.com

BEST Apps for Autism-2015

It's a new year, and with that new year we want to provide the most up-to-date resources and support possible to assist our readers in search of practical help for challenged readers and learners of all ages. Many of those readers are parents, teachers and counselors of children, teens and adults on the autism spectrum.

As you can imagine, it takes a very special individuals to serve the autism community and its families. Patience and compassion can go a long way to soothe the fatigue of a parent who has experienced just too many meltdowns. Encouragement and gentle motivation are other gifts needed to help teachers make a real difference each day in the lives of the children in their classrooms who are on the spectrum. Determination and fortitude are front and center in the social workers who try repeatedly to place adults with ASD (autism spectrum disorder) in appropriate employment situations and/or housing arrangements.

We tip our hats to ALL of them and would like to provide some assistance from our end of of the community. After all, if one is not part of the solution, then there is a possibility that one is part of the problem. So, this week our part is to provide a new crop of resources for the new year---resources in the form of apps and app lists for persons of all ages on the autism spectrum. Since it was back in 2013 when we created our last list of these autism apps, we thought it was the right time for a new list to be presented to our readers.

This past week, we gathered together a collection of autism apps here that we hope will provide some much-needed support for the individuals and their families in the autism community. We also hope that parents, teachers and counselors, who have very little time, will find this list convenient with many of these specialized apps ALL in one place. From organizational apps to social and educational apps, you'll find them all here---here in 2015!

Happy Reading---AND Happy New Year one more time!

BEST Apps for Autism

Autism Apps---current list provided by Autism Speaks
Apps are listed in alphabetical order. You can sort apps by rating by clicking the "Rating" link above that column. You can rate apps by first clicking on the app name to visit the app detail page. Then, below the description of the app, click on the number of stars for your rating of the app.
http://www.autismspeaks.org/autism-apps?page=2

Look At Me---New App to Boost Social Skills of Autistic Kids (Released by Samsung)
This new app aims to train autistic children to maintain eye contact and convey basic emotions.
VIDEO: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=99TL3hGPw5I
Article & VIDEO: http://techcrunch.com/2014/12/22/samsung-lookatme/

13 Best Autism Apps for the iPad
by Michael A. Prospero, LAPTOP Reviews Editor
(NOTE: To access the 13 app titles, click on the yellow arrow buttons in the article's graphics.)
http://blog.laptopmag.com/best-autism-apps-ipad

Android Apps Autism Parenting Magazine 2015
The latest list of Android apps for autism from Autism Parenting Magazine.
http://2015android.com/Android_Autism-Parenting-Magazine_2015.html

Social Skills and Autism Apps List (1/13/15)
original list by Jessica Chase, MA, CCC-SLP
This list contains apps for life skills, conversation starters, conversation maintenance, idioms, non-verbal communication, eye contact, emotions and many more.
http://parentingautismindia.blogspot.com/2015/01/social-skills-and-autism-apps-list.html

9 Great Apps For Kids With Autism---by Patricia-Anne Tom (9/18/14)
Experienced readers with kids on the autism spectrum share nine apps that have helped improve how their kids interact with others.
http://www.popsugar.com/moms/Best-Apps-Autistic-Kids-31793054#photo-31793054

Reading Focus Cards Desktop App (Patent 8,360,779) (for Macs & Windows PCs)
from Brennan Innovators, LLC
This DESKTOP app is the digital version of the physical Reading Focus Cards (Patent 7,565,759), solutions for struggling readers. This app for Windows PCs and Macs provides practical READING SUPPORT for children and adults with ADHD, dyslexia, autism and other conditions that can affect reading success. It promotes more FOCUS, FLUENCY and VISUAL COMFORT for online reading of almost ALL digital media (webpages, PDF files, Word docs, Excel spreadsheets & more.) In addition, the Reading Focus Card app is compatible with and supports touch-screen technology. The application can be moved on the screen over text by the fingers, mouse or arrow keys as needed.
1. For Macs (desktops & notebooks):
Visit the Mac App Store at https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/read-and-focus/id920617853?mt=12 or search for the app called Reading Focus Cards.
2. For Windows PCs (desktops & laptops):
Visit Gumroad at https://gumroad.com/l/ReadingFocusCards OR visit the Microsoft Windows Store and search for the app called Reading Focus Cards. (No URLs are ever provided for apps in the Windows Store.)

Autism Apps---by Special Needs App Review (Some FREE apps)
Autism Apps is simply a comprehensive list of apps that are being used with and by people diagnosed with autism, Down syndrome and other special needs. It also includes links to any available information that can be found for each app. The Apps are also separated into over 30 categories, and the descriptions are all searchable, so any type of app is easy to find and download.
http://www.friendshipcircle.org/apps/browse/autism-apps/

Top 10 Apps and Software for Autism---by Autism Today
These apps and software became widely known throughout the world not only because of their features but also their abilities to manage autism behavior.
http://www.autismtoday.com/top-10-apps-and-software-for-autism/

For more information on customizable low-tech & digital reading tools for all kinds of challenged readers, please visit:
www.FocusandRead.com Tools for struggling readers of all ages!
www.BrennanInnovators.com Info & support for struggling readers
314-892-3897

Image courtesy of:
Autism Mix at http://www.autismmix.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/fabric.jpg
Brennan Innovators, LLC at www.focusandread.com

Helpful Literacy Tools & Resources for Autism

This past weekend, we had the great privilege of attending the 2014 World U.S. Asperger and Autism Association Conference in Kansas City, MO. What an outstanding event it was with 30 of the top autism speakers and experts in the world---all in one place!

Many parents, educators, occupational therapists and numerous other medical professionals from the Midwest and around the globe came to this one metropolitan center to hear these excellent speakers and authorities in order to return home better informed, re-energized and ready to help even more children and adults on the autism spectrum. The attendees were very dedicated individuals with exceptional patience and a unique commitment to teach and care for the growing numbers of individuals on the autism spectrum.

For this reason, we are honoring these special autism care givers with an article dedicated just to them. For the parents who have spent far too many sleepless nights caring for a sensory-challenged child with ASD, for the teachers who work tirelessly each day to help children with autism read with more success, for the medical professionals who treat these children, teens and adults and many other special care givers, we salute you ALL.

In their honor, we have written this article that includes many literacy tools and resources to help with the challenging work they do each day. We hope at least one item on the list here will help even in a small way to lighten their workload just a bit---if only for a little while.

Literacy Tools & Resources for Autism

Literacy Resources for Children on the Autism Spectrum
Compiled by Wendy J. Schroder, M.Ed.
A listing of books, curricula and programs, websites, software and iPad applications that can be used to promote literacy among children on the autism spectrum. This extensive listing can help practitioners or family members involved in teaching reading and enhancing comprehension.
http://www.iidc.indiana.edu/styles/iidc/defiles/IRCA/Literacy11final.pdf

The Virtues of the “Whisper Phone” for Independent Reading
Posted by Colleen Cadieux
Take a look at the “whisper phone” as an important tool for early and struggling readers. If you haven’t seen one yet, you should check out the simple instructions below, for making your own. The whisper phone supports the acquisition of phonemic awareness by allowing the student to hear his/her own voice while reading. Students are also able to focus on blending, proper sound use, and fluency in the text.
http://info.marygrove.edu/MATblog/bid/79584/The-Virtues-of-the-Whisper-Phone-for-Independent-Reading

Adapting Books (for Children on the Autism Spectrum)
It is important for children with autism to have early exposure to literacy (reading and writing) activities. It can be beneficial to use books that are interactive. For best results books should be about something your child is interested in and can relate to. If the child is interested, he will be motivated. Repetition is key; reading the books over and over again reinforces learning. The activities presented here can help children to develop their communication abilities. Also,there are examples of how interactive literacy activities can be created.
https://sites.google.com/site/speaking4autism/tools-for-literacy/adapting-books

Positively Autism---Teaching Literacy to the Student with Autism
This is a web page with a short list of links to literacy resources for autism.
http://www.positivelyautism.com/volume3_issue05/

Sites for Autistic Support Teachers
This large list of educational links for ASD educators includes literacy as well as some math resources.
http://www.angelfire.com/pa5/as/asteachersites.html

The Reading Focus Cards (Patent 7,565,759)
From Brennan Innovators, LLC
Sensory-appealing and customizable reading tools and solutions for challenged readers of all ages.
www.FocusandRead.com/products

APP---Overlays! (for OS X 10.8 or later---Price: $6.99)
Created by Abbie Gonzalez
Use to help with reading or sometimes to help following large tables and lists of data. Battle the wall of text, eyestrain and distractions with this on screen overlay to help you keep your place!
- Keep your place in huge walls of text, tables and lists.
- Pick the color, height and transparency that helps you read better.
- Use a lightly colored overlay or a completely solid line to help you keep focused. Pick what works for you!
- Easily access preferences from the menu bar icon.
- Works in full screen applications, and even over virtual machines.
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/overlays!/id868499627?mt=12

APP---Reading Focus Cards (for Macs & Windows PCs---Price: $5.99)
(Patent 8,360,779)
From Brennan Innovators, LLC
This DESKTOP app is the digital version of the physical Reading Focus Cards (Patent 7,565,759), solutions for struggling readers. This app for Windows PCs and Macs provides practical READING SUPPORT for children and adults with ADHD, dyslexia, autism and other conditions that can affect reading success. It promotes more FOCUSED online reading of almost ALL digital media (webpages, PDF files, Word docs, Excel spreadsheets & more.) In addition, the Reading Focus Card app is compatible with and supports touch-screen technology. The application can be moved on the screen over text by the fingers, mouse or arrow keys as needed.
1. For Windows PCs:
Visit Gumroad at https://gumroad.com/l/ReadingFocusCards
2. For Macs:
Visit the Mac App Store and search for "Read and Focus" or go directly to
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/read-and-focus/id920617853?mt=12

For more information on customizable reading tools for all kinds of learners, please visit:
www.FocusandRead.com Tools for struggling readers of all ages!
www.BrennanInnovators.com Info & support for struggling readers
314-892-3897

Image courtesy of:
Pixabay at http://pixabay.com/en/puzzle-puzzle-piece-puzzles-75658/ and
Brennan Innovators, LLC at www.focusandread.com

BEST Special Needs Websites-2014

Our weekly blog article is coming to you a bit later this week, as we have been busy presenting and exhibiting at the 2014 Greater St. Louis Area Home Educators Expo over the past weekend. What a wonderful event it was for homeschooling families---and for us, too!

We always look forward to this event each year and have participated since 2009. Once again this year, we were impressed with the enthusiasm of the many parents (and grandparents!) so motivated to teach their children in the best ways possible and with the best resources.

Over the past several years, we have been noticing a significant increase in the number of families searching for practical resources for their children challenged with special needs. This year was no exception. Again and again, parents visited our exhibit table for consultation about their children's learning struggles, particularly with reading. We provided many with relevant resources and strategies to help. At the same time, more than the usual number of parents and children wanted to interact with our Reading Focus Cards (Patent 7,565,759) to experience firsthand the tools' focusing and sensory features. We were happy to help them and enjoyed doing so.

For those of our readers who were unable to attend the conference but also need helpful resources for special needs, we thought we would provide here our most current list of websites for their children or students. If you are such a parent or teacher, we hope you will find these resources helpful in enriching the life of your child, your family or that of your students as a result.

Happy reading and learning, everyone!

BEST Websites for Special Needs-2014

Tax Strategies for Parents of Kids with Special Needs
https://www.tacanow.org/family-resources/tax-strategies-for-parents-of-kids-with-special-needs/

Top 100 Special Needs Resources on the Web
http://phdinspecialeducation.com/special-needs/

SEN Teacher
Many FREE resources for teachers can be found here. There are numerous downloads and printables for immediate classroom use!
http://www.senteacher.org

Autism Buddy
Aims to provide a FREE user-friendly website that provides high quality pintables and resources for teachers and parents for use with children with special educational needs
http://autismbuddy.com/categories

WatchKnowLearn
FREE life skills videos categorized by age of viewer and content area
http://www.watchknowlearn.org/Category.aspx?CategoryID=640

ADHD Blogs: Meet the ADDitude Bloggers
ADHD blogs from ADD adults, parents of ADHD children, and ADHD experts -- helping you cope with the challenges of and delight in the benefits of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADD/ADHD).
http://www.additudemag.com/adhdblogs/index.html

Do2Learn
FREE resources for teachers and parents of children on the autism spectrum that include thousands of free pages with social skills and behavioral regulation activities and guidance, learning songs and games, communication cards, academic material, and transition guides for employment and life skills.
http://www.do2learn.com/

Free Technology for Teachers by Richard Byrne
FREE resources with lesson plans for teaching with technology
http://www.freetech4teachers.com

Best Free Children's eBooks Online
Link to 233+ sites for FREE children’s e-books
http://www.techsupportalert.com/best-free-ebooks-online.htm

For information on customizable reading tools for ADHD & other reading challenges:
www.FocusandRead.com Tools for struggling readers of all ages!
www.BrennanInnovators.com Info & support for struggling readers
314-892-3897

Image courtesy of:
Brennan Innovators, LLC at www.focusandread.com

Literacy Games for ALL Kinds of Challenged Readers

Most parents and educators know that learning to read is a process, one that involves a variety of specific skills. When these skills are effectively learned and systematically combined, a child should then be able to read with increasing success.

Unfortunately for some children, the ability to read may not always be easy. For children with additional needs, parents and educators may also know that a different approach might be needed. When the approach includes a little fun and enjoyment when learning these needed literacy skills, the result can often be much more successful.

This week, we have gathered together a good list of literacy game resources for ALL kinds of struggling readers and learners. Some links will enable you to access online, interactive reading games while a few will provide ideas for offline literacy activities. For the convenience of our good readers, we have also grouped the links in categories of specific need.

As always, we hope you will find these resources helpful in the work you do. Whether you are a parent of a challenged reader or the teacher of a student who struggles to learn, we want to help. Hopefully, these links will make your job just a little bit easier.

Happy reading---to ALL readers!

Literacy Games for ADHD

Reading Games---from PrimaryGames
Play a variety of free online literacy games for kids with a vast collection of learning games for Grades 1-8.
http://www.primarygames.com/reading.php

Reading Games---from PBS
This website provides a collection of interactive reading games for younger children (K-4).
http://pbskids.org/games/reading/

Literacy Games for Dyslexia

Literacy Games---from Dyslexia House Association
This organization provides information and support for dyslexic people, parents, teachers and employers. The reinforcement elements of these games can be very beneficial for many dyslexic students and a very positive way of learning.
http://www.medwaydys.org/html_pages/games/lit_games.html

Fun & Games for Dyslexics---from the University of Michigan DyslexiaHelp Center
If you have dyslexia, there’s no need to avoid hard puzzles and word games any longer. Here is a FREE collection of literacy games for those challenged with dyslexia.
http://dyslexiahelp.umich.edu/tools/fun-games-for-dyslexics

Games to support reading---from the British Dyslexia Association
There are numerous games available on this site to support reading, spelling & memory.
http://www.bdadyslexia.org.uk/about-dyslexia/parents/helping-your-child-at-home.html

Literacy Games for Down Syndrome

Activities and games
The following offline activities and games may be especially suitable for children with Down Syndrome. Playing games with them is a good way to enable them to react to being touched and being moved. As a result they become more conscious of their bodies and their movements. They will then pay more attention to what they are doing and will be better able to react to their environment.
http://www.sensoryprocessing.info/games/choose-8-down.html

Reading Games---from JumpStart
Online reading games (and others) for children ages K-5. (Requires free online registration to access games.)
https://www.jumpstart.com/free-online-game.aspx?pid=googpd&cid=reading%20games&gclid=CP7qxunG27wCFVBk7AodNRkAqw

Literacy Games for Autism & Asperger's

Reading Eggs
Reading Eggs is a great program for ASD students because it's very visual, has a lot of repetition, and all activities are VERY engaging! It makes learning to read interesting and engaging for kids, with online reading games and activities. The program has been developed by a highly experienced team of educational teachers, writers and developers. The Reading Eggs program focuses on a core reading curriculum of phonics and sight words using skills and strategies essential for sustained reading success. It completely supports what children learn at school and will help to improve your child’s results at school. (FREE 14-day trial available)
http://readingeggs.com/

Reading Links---from Free Videos for Autistic Kids
An extensive list of reading & literacy links especially helpful for children with autism or Asperger's
http://www.freevideosforautistickids.com/Reading_Links.html

Learn to Read with Phonics---from Starfall
Starfall.com opened in September of 2002 as a FREE public service to teach children to read with phonics. Their systematic phonics approach, in conjunction with phonemic awareness practice, is perfect for preschool, kindergarten, first grade, second grade, special education, homeschool, and English language development (ELD, ELL, ESL). Starfall is an educational alternative to other entertainment choices for children.
http://www.starfall.com/

Literacy Games for Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD)

Activities and games
A collection of offline games especially helpful for children with sensory processing disorder (SPD)
http://www.sensoryprocessing.info/games/games.html

For information on customizable reading tools for ADHD & other reading challenges:
www.FocusandRead.com Tools for struggling readers of all ages!
www.BrennanInnovators.com Info & support for struggling readers
314-892-3897

Image courtesy of:
Brennan Innovators, LLC at www.focusandread.com

BEST Websites for Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs)

The last in a series of five articles with specific special needs resources

As LD Awareness Month concludes during this last week of October, we are bringing you our final article in a series of five that provides websites and resources for specific special or additional needs.

The most recent data from the CDC (Centers for Disease Control) indicates that in the U.S., about 1 in 88 children have been identified with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Autism spectrum disorders are almost five times more common among boys than girls – with 1 in 54 boys identified.
(Source: CDC's Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring Network, March 2012:
http://www.cdc.gov/media/releases/2012/p0329_autism_disorder.html)

Because of this high level of autism prevalence, we thought it most appropriate to conclude our series here by providing our readers with helpful website resources for that specific need. We hope that this list of autism websites will help you as a parent, teacher or caregiver of a child or adult with autism.

BEST Websites for Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs)

Autism Spectrum Disorders---from the National Center for Learning Disabilities
http://www.ncld.org/types-learning-disabilities/adhd-related-issues/autism-spectrum-disorders?gclid=CI-okIvJr7oCFUkV7AodSj4AUw

National Autism Association
http://nationalautismassociation.org/

Autism NOW---from the National Autism Resource & Information Center
http://autismnow.org/

TeachersFirst Resources on Autism Spectrum Disorders and Asperger’s
http://www.teachersfirst.com/spectopics/autism-asperger.cfm

Websites for Families from Autism Speaks
http://www.autismspeaks.org/family-services/resource-library/websites-families

10 Great iPad Apps for Students on the Autism Spectrum---by Patrick Jordan
http://ipadinsight.com/ipad-in-education-2/10-great-ipad-apps-for-students-on-the-autism-spectrum/

For information on customizable reading tools:
www.FocusandRead.com Tools for struggling readers of all ages!
www.BrennanInnovators.com Info & support for struggling readers
314-892-3897

Image courtesy of: Brennan Innovators, LLC