The Zac Browser has been an indispensable tool for our own children as well as numerous children in our programs. The thoughtful and innovative construction of this browser sets an example for all software developed on behalf of children and adults with special needs. The story of its construction is nothing less than inspirational. Here is how the developers describe their effort.
Following the disappointing results obtained with the use of a conventional browser, we designed a software package specifically adapted for him. We designed a “full screen” program that cannot access the task bar, the Start menu and also cancels the right hand function of the mouse. The buttons are limited to essential functions and the browser prevents the child from accessing inappropriate sites. Children suffering from autism are known for being able to adapt easily to PECS (pictograms) so we designed an icon based navigation system like the PECS system.
You can read the rest of the story here, and download the actual browser here. At this point Mac users will have to install Bootcamp or a windows emulator since there isn’t a native Mac version (I would like to see a native Mac version).
One more thing – there appears to be a new application being delivered from the great team that has given us the Zac Browser. This new app is called Zac Picto and you can sign up for the Beta version here.
