I'm not generally one to say, "I told you so," but I really did this time.
When Apple introduced its iPad awhile ago, I told my husband it was a perfect device for kids like our son, Andrew. The screen is bigger than an iPod Touch, which is too small for Andrew to manipulate due to his fine motor limitations from cerebral palsy. And many of its entertaining features go far beyond the capabilities of a PC. Since then, Andrew has obtained an iPad of his own. He uses it to surf the internet, communicate via Facebook, download music and even explore "Romeo & Juliet" with a special application that enhances his homework. He also watches movies and YouTube on it. It is truly amazing technology.
In Andrew's case, the iPad supplements a laptop PC provided by our local school district. The laptop is great for schoolwork and books online. He can also email assignments to his teachers and track homework online. It's a great TOOL. The iPad, on the other hand, is a fabulous TOY that enables our son to access a variety of worlds and interests in an easy-to-use interface that's incredibly accessible. He takes it on vacation, to doctors appointments, to friends' houses and is now using it in the hospital (making our stay much more tolerable). Importantly, the iPad is something that Andrew shares with his non-disabled peers. There's no stigma with it, as is often the case with less mainstream assistive technology. It's just fun!
Nothing is perfect, and our son is still working to master certain aspects of the iPad and its sensitive touchscreen. Still, it's a joy to watch him as he perfects his hand movements to keep up with his passions and brainpower.
Great to hear that Steve Jobs and the folks at Apple are actually excited about the many ways their technology can help children and others with "special needs." Perhaps the best is yet to come.
