Assistive technology in the classroom — your child might be eligible for tools you didn't know existed

Assistive technology (AT) isn't just wheelchairs and hearing aids. In schools, it includes any device or tool that helps a child access their education. And if it's written into your child's IEP, the school must provide it at no cost to you. Many parents don't realize how broad the options are.

For reading difficulties, there are text-to-speech tools that read digital text aloud, audiobook access, reading rulers that highlight one line at a time, and software that adjusts font size and spacing. For writing challenges, speech-to-text software, word prediction tools, graphic organizers, and adapted keyboards can transform a child's ability to express their ideas.

For attention and organization, digital timers, noise-canceling headphones, fidget tools, and apps that break assignments into steps can make a typical school day manageable. For communication, the school should provide and maintain AAC devices during the school day if specified in the IEP.

Here's what many parents miss: IDEA requires that AT be considered for every child who has an IEP. If the IEP team hasn't discussed assistive technology for your child, ask why. You can request an assistive technology evaluation, which should be conducted by someone with AT expertise — not just the classroom teacher trying out an app. The right tool can be the difference between a child who is struggling and one who is thriving.