Opening New Worlds for Those with Autism: Technology Is Creating Great New Possibilities for Those on Every Part of the Spectrum

For several years now - especially since the introduction of the iPad and the subsequent explosion of tablets and specialized apps for communication and other skills - electronic devices, which for most people function as just entertainment or convenience, have had profound and transformative effects on the lives of people on the autism spectrum. It has meant the difference between almost utter isolation and an inability to communicate and a life of interaction, learning, and expressiveness. Apps to assist with communication for those who have limitations of speech due to autism-spectrum conditions or other special needs span a wide gamut, and they continue to improve rapidly. Some are designed to help young children or those who lack reading and writing skills to communicate basic needs or requests. They use basic picture tiles the nonreading user can rearrange to express simple sentences, which the device speaks aloud. For others, who can read and write but are unable to speak or have a conversation, being able to type out sentences that reread aloud in a user-selectable voice makes it possible to have very natural real-time conversations with friends, family, and teachers. The potential for improvement in the lives of people across the spectrum of autism disorders continues to expand. New tools are helping enhance the lives of those who have mastered the basics of communication and interaction and hope to develop further skills in schools, the workplace, and in social relationships.