Netsmartz: Using Technology with Special Needs Children

	May 2012
These experts say video and computer games help special needs children practice social skills in a controlled environment. Online games, like this one from Do2Learn, can assist special needs children in recognizing facial expressions. iPads offer tremendous benefits to children with special needs. Read this mother's heartwarming story about how the iPad has helped her non-verbal son with autism communicate. There are literally hundreds of learning and productivity apps you can use with special needs children. This website provides reviews and helpful tips so you know which ones to buy. NetSmartz has resources specifically made for special needs children, including safety pledges using Picture Communication Symbols™ and Safety Stories. Articles and comments do not necessarily reflect the views of the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC). Any products or websites mentioned are not necessarily affiliated with, endorsed or licensed by NCMEC. "Last year, I was asked to help a small school that had gone through three kindergarten teachers before Christmas. Over 50% of the class were students with disabilities. One look at the classroom, and it was clear that student engagement was the critical issue, and computers seemed like a place to start customizing. By leveraging the available tools and committing to a student-centered classroom, we used technology to enhance management and individualize learning." Rebecca A. Hines Member, Council for Exceptional Children Associate Professor, University of Central Florida
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