We live in a time when the influx of technology is exponentially growing on a daily basis. Something that was ground-breaking yesterday is old news today. We are constantly building and working off of past achievements, looking toward the future for the newest app or device. As we continue into this ever-growing market of technological development, it is important to use these advancements to help those who need it. Technology should not simply exist for the sake of existing, but should improve the livelihood of those who need it.
Many app developers are seeking to do just that. Below are three app developers who are contributing to the special needs community and seeking to better the communication, motor, and organizational skills of those with disabilities.
Touch Autism
Created by Jenny and Tom Krones, Touch Autism has been building apps to help people with special needs communicate since 2010. These apps help kids learn how to take turns, create social stories to help them know how to interact and behave in social settings, learn to use calming and breathing techniques to exercise self-control, and many other useful tools to help people especially with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Down Syndrome, and intellectual disabilities.
Binary Labs
Binary Labs, Inc is a company that specializes in learning programs and apps. As part of these programs, Binary Labs has created multiple apps under the name “Dexteria” to help kids with learning or fine motor disabilities such as dysgraphia or dyscalculia. With these apps, kids can practice spatial reasoning, fine motor, and visual motor skills through math and writing games.
LearningWorks for Kids
LearningWorks for Kids uses media to help kids with learning disabilities, ADHD, and Autism Spectrum Disorder grow and develop. These apps help with executive functioning, organizational abilities, and intellectual skills. This company believes that video games, when used wisely, can be extremely beneficial to help kids learn and grow.