Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) is an alternative way to help students and adults with language disorders use expressive language or receptive language. Augmentative communication can be accomplished through assistive technology devices such as computers or hand held devices.
Twenty years ago if your child was non-verbal your resources where very limited. Advanced communication was limited to low technology such as picture communication systems and sign language.
Since 2011 the iPad has revolutionized the assistive communication world. At an affordable price, the easy to use iPad has become the most recommended device when an assistive communication device is needed. In the app store there are numerous applications available for individuals with special needs.
Twenty years ago if your child was non-verbal your resources where very limited. Advanced communication was limited to low technology such as picture communication systems and sign language.
Since 2011 the iPad has revolutionized the assistive communication world. At an affordable price, the easy to use iPad has become the most recommended device when an assistive communication device is needed. In the app store there are numerous applications available for individuals with special needs.
Here are some Assistive Technology apps for the iPad that you may find useful:

Articulate it! Pro is an application designed to help children practice their pronunciation skills.
- Articulate it! contains over 1 thousand images in all sounds of the English language.
- 150 new words, phrases & sentences have been added.
- Note taking capability for SLPs and parents.
- Ability to track multiple students at the same time with separate goals.
- Contains ALL phonemes of the English language.
- Cost is $38.99

TextMinder SMS allows you to schedule SMS text reminders to be sent to you at the times you specify.
- Remind yourself of your medication, diet, exercise or financial goals, shopping, errands, bills, household chores, and other todo tasks
- Create unlimited SMS text reminders to be sent to you on your iPhone or other primary phone.
- This app requires either a cellular data (3G, EDGE) or WiFi connection to manage reminders. Check with your carrier's standard text messaging policies and rates.
- Cost is $1.99

iHomework keeps you up-to-date with your school work, grades, to-do's, teacher's information, and almost everything else you need during the school year.
- The only syncable school organizer that can be with you anywhere you go.
- Allows you to set alarms for Assignments and Reminders.
- Works great with IPhone/IPod, IPad, and Mac.Make sure your technology has an IOS 4 and up to get maximum usage.
- Cost is $1.99.

Behavior Tracker Pro for Autism is an iPhone, iTouch and iPad application that allows BCBAs, behavioral therapists, aides, teachers or parents to track behaviors and automatically graph them.
- Data and frequency collecting app.
- Dramatically improves the process of teaching and treating children with Autism.
- Supports unlimited number of children and observers and with no monthly fee.
- Fully customizable to meet your child or clients needs. Use built in behaviors or add your own.
- Cost Is $29.99

Dragon Dictation is an easy-to-use voice recognition application powered by Dragon NaturallySpeaking that allows you to easily speak and instantly see your text or email messages.
- 5 times faster than typing on the keyboard.
- Easy to use.
- Multiple languages.
- Absolutely free!
iPad and useful applications to better understanding the specific application of these apps before you buy them!
- The Special Needs iPad & App Series: Welcome
- 7 Assistive communication (AAC) apps for the iPad, iPhone and iPod touch
- 7 Scheduling and Behavioral Apps to help with transitions and more
- 11 Social Skills & Life Skills Apps in iPad App Store
- 10 Websites to Find Special Needs Apps for the iPad & iPhone
- 7 Special Needs Apps in the Google Android Market
- On a tight budget? 7 ways to get an ipad for your child with special needs
- 6 steps to get the iPad into your child’s special education classroom
- 4 Special Needs iPad/iPhone Apps for the Future
Still looking for more special needs apps? Check out the Special Needs App Review!