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AT for Infants/Toddlers

Advocacy/Information Links

The section on advocacy and information provides links to both California and nationally-based organizations that provide support for families of young children on assistive technology. Also included is basic information on the uses of assistive technology with very young children with disabilities.

Advocacy

1. AT Network, California Foundation for Independent Living Centers
   From the Web site: "The AT Network was developed by The California Foundation for Independent Living Centers under contract with the California Assistive Technology System (CATS). The network is statewide under the auspices of 29 independent living centers across the State. Services of the AT Network include a free information & referral line, a statewide systems change network, public policy analysis and advocacy and overall advocacy on behalf of the disability community. (AT Network flyer, 2005) 1029 J Street, Suite 120, Sacramento, CA, 95814-2495, (916) 325-1690 (v), (916) 325-1695 (tty), (916) 325-1699 (fax)." The Web site contains information for consumers regarding AT for infants and toddlers in the State of California. Examples of AT that can be provided to infants and toddlers with disabilities include auditory training equipment, computer equipment including software and access devices, communication systems, switches and switch-adapted toys.
   
   
2. Assistive Technology for Infants/Toddlers 108k PDF file
   This Web site provides a four-page overview on AT. It was developed by the Families & Advocates Partnership for Education, an IDEA partnership grant with PACER Center; 8161 Normandale Blvd., Minneapolis, MN, 55437, (952) 838-9000, fape@pacer.org.
   
   
3. Alliance for Technology Access
   From the Web site: "The Alliance for Technology Access (ATA) is a network of community-based Resource Centers, Developers, Vendors and Associates dedicated to providing information and support services to children and adults with disabilities, and increasing their use of standard, assistive, and information technologies. ATA Members can be found all across the country. We hope that this Web site will let you get to know us a little better, make use of our resources, contact one of our members and perhaps consider joining us in achieving our mission of 'connecting children and adults with disabilities to technology tools.'" The technology guide for persons with disabilities has a section on Early Learning that includes Web sites to visit. 1304 Southpoint Blvd., Suite 240, Petaluma, CA 94954, (707) 778-3011 voice, (707) 778-3015 tty, (707) 765-2080, E-mail: ATAinfo@ATAccess.org.
   
   
4. AAC-RERC
   According to the description on the Web site, "The AAC-RERC conducts a comprehensive program of research, development, training, and dissemination activities that address the NIDRR priorities and seek to improve technologies for individuals who rely on augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) technologies." While the focus of the AAC-RERC includes persons of all ages, the sections on funding and report writing to access AAC devices support advocacy by professionals and family members.
   
   
5. The Family Center on Technology and Disabilities Resources
   OSEP-sponsored grant that includes a newsletter, family guide and resources that have been peer reviewed and alphabetized. The site has available a free CD that provides information and resources on AT for young children with disabilities and their families.
   
   

Information

1. Advocacy Topics
   Ruth Ballinger developed this Web site as part of the requirements for completion of her M.Ed. degree in special education at the University of Hawaii. She features resources for families and professionals who work with young children in the development of AT and AAC systems. As stated by Ruth, "The purpose is to provide information and guidance to families, teachers, speech/language pathologists and anyone else who is involved with a child with special communication needs. It is intended to be easy to understand and practical, and to cover a wide range of topics dealing with AAC and AAC-related issues of children at various ages and stages of communication ability, and with different strengths, disabilities and learning characteristics."
   
   

Funding

1. AAC-RERC
   According to the description on the Web site, "The AAC-RERC conducts a comprehensive program of research, development, training, and dissemination activities that address the NIDRR priorities and seek to improve technologies for individuals who rely on augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) technologies." While the focus of the AAC-RERC includes persons of all ages, the sections on funding and report-writing to access AAC devices support advocacy by professionals and family members.
   
   
2. TOTS-n-TECH
   The site has a section on funding AT services.
   
   
3. The Family Center on Technology and Disabilities Resources
   OSEP-sponsored grant that includes a newsletter, family guide and resources that have been peer reviewed and alphabetized. The site has available a free CD that provides information and resources on AT for young children with disabilities and their families. There is information on funding AT services and devices.

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