Assistive Technology Options

Assistive technology refers to a wide range of devices, equipment, and simple aids—from visual timers and pencil grips to weighted pads, sensory cushions, protective earmuffs, and tactile learning items—that help make learning easier, more comfortable, and more enjoyable for students. Explore our hand-picked suggestions from the product lists below, or click the "Shop All" buttons in each section to view our complete offerings! These suggestions are grouped by functionality, not grade level.

Time can be an abstract concept for a child, but these timers show time passing in a way that students can process visually. Turn the timer and watch the red disk appear. Students “see” time pass, making it more concrete.

Children who struggle to sit still might benefit from a special seat cushion. Cushions can help a child focus and listen, and they often help kids remember instruction better, too!

These inflatable pods are perfect for children who prefer the sensation of tightness or squeezing. They are inflatable, so you control how firm the squeeze is. Pods can be used to deescalate behavior, as a comfortable place to sit when listening to a lesson, or even as a place to do school work.

Weighted pads and stuffed animals offer comfort to children, especially those who are anxious. The stuffed animals are cute and can be heated in the microwave for warmth. The weighted pad is soft, comfortable, and features tactile sensory elements.

As children are sitting at desks or at screens, they can easily find themselves hunched over. These cute stuffed animals have a particular shape that encourages children to sit up straight by holding the animal between a table and their chest. 

Sensory overload affects many children, but thankfully these noise-cancelling ear coverings can help soften unwanted noise and enhance focus!

The tactile element of these sensory alphabets and numbers provides sensory feedback to a child who may be struggling associating meaning to letters and numbers. Children trace their fingers over the textured surface, say the letter, and make the sound, creating more associations during learning.

An auditory learner often needs to hear themselves talk, as well as listen to others. Maybe they need to hold a Toobaloo like an “old fashioned” phone handset. Or perhaps your child would benefit from watching themselves form words in a mirror to learn how to master the sounds of different phonemes. 

If your child is struggling with letter size and shape formation, handwriting paper that prodivdes guidance is a simple and often effective option to try. Some have boxes you write in, some have space between lines, and some have lines you can feel.

Just like adults have a favorite pen, children often have their favorite pencil. They may like how the triangular-shaped ones feel in their hand or the balance of a tiny pencil. Others might love mechanical pencils or prefer the classic wooden ones!

Many children find that a pencil grip makes handwriting easier or more fun. It may be the texture, the shape, or simply the novelty that makes writing less of a chore!

Putty is often used by therapists to develop fine motor muscles for handwriting skills. We offer a very wide range of colors and textures, scents and sizes!

Not just for gym class! Scooter boards are versatile, wheeled platforms that let children propel themselves while lying on their belly or sitting, providing fun movement that builds core strength.

Help children develop balance and gross motor skills with activities like jumping rope and climbing. Moving their body and being active is essential for a child’s brain development, as well as their overall health.

Contact our friendly consultants for FREE to find further assistance with any curriculum questions you may have on Math, Language Arts, Science, Social Studies, Enrichment, and more!

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