Pennsylvania's Assistive Technology Lending Library NewsLetter
A Monthly Newsletter for Local Branches of Pennsylvania's Assistive Technology
Lending Library
July/August 2000
Volume 3, Issue 1
Product Focus: Assistive Technology in the Early Years
:
Using Assistive Technology in Everyday Routines
By Joanne Watson, Pennsylvania's Initiative on Assistive Technology, Institute
on Disabilities/UAP, Temple University
Assistive technology is an effective tool that helps young children participate
more fully in their everyday routines. The activities listed below are the ideas
of many people who use assistive technology with young children. This list of
ways to use assistive technology should be used a "springboard" that will lead
to the creation of new ideas.
The goal is always to find ways in which assistive technology can help children
participate in "typical" activities, not to contrive situations in which to
use assistive technology. When reviewing the ideas, focus on the activity, not
on the specific assistive technology application. Participation in the activity
is the goal, NOT the use of assistive technology.
Incorporating these ideas into daily routines may seem like an awesome task.
On any given day, choose only those you have time and energy. Attempting to
"do it all" will take the fun out of it and make assistive technology just another
time for therapy instead of a time for participating in real life activities.
Waking Up/Dressing
Attach a single message communication device (e.g. a Big Mac) within the child's
reach so that she can wake up and call her parents.
Using a simple communication device (e.g. Tech 4), encourage the child to choose
an activity to start the day, such as "I'm hungry, let's eat breakfast", "I
need to go potty" or "can you help me get dressed?"
Using a simple communication device, the child can choose what items of clothing
she wants to wear.
Place simple communication devices around the house (e.g. in the bathroom and
bedroom) to make choices such as washing hands, cleaning teeth, or what book
to read.
Using photos of different styles, choices can be made regarding how s/he wants
their hair done that day (e.g. braids or ponytails).
Mealtime/Snacktime
The child can actively participates in the mealtime preparation by using an
environmental control unit, a switch and an electronic appliance. Milk shakes
are a great activity. A child can choose flavors and ingredients as well as
operate the device using an environmental control unit such as the Powerlink.
Create a breakfast menu. Put it on a placemat or on the refrigerator door. Encourage
the child to make choices with it. Many restaurants, including McDonalds, have
plastic placemats that can be used for making choices.
Place simple communication devices in easy reach in the kitchen to allow the
child to choose what to eat, to express that s/he needs more help, or that s/he
is done eating. Include descriptive words such as yummy/yucky and other age
appropriate expressions.
Bedtime
The child can say "Goodnight" and/or "I love you" using the communication device
in his bedroom.
Using an environmental control unit and the desired switch, the child can turn
off the bedroom light at night and turn it back on in the morning.
The child can call his parents at night using a single message communication
device.
The child can participate in singing "good night" songs using a CheapTalk or
a single switch communication device.
A child can read a story by using an electronic page turner.
Free Play Time/Group Time
During block-building time, have children take turns building up the tower and
alternatively knocking it down. To knock down the tower, the child can use a
switch-operated robot or car and have the toy run into the tower.
Using a simple communication device have the child select a desired toy and
desired playmates.
With a series adapter and 2 switches, have 2 children play together to make
the toy go.
Have the child participate in blowing bubbles using a battery-operated fan with
a switch, or an electric fan with an environmental control unit and switch.
Many games which may be switch-adapted (e.g. Bed Bugs) are appropriate for 2
or more children to play at one time. One child operates the controls and the
other children perform the activity.
JoAnn Watson can be contacted at jwatson@astro.temple.edu
A Note From The Editor…..
In this month's combined July/August Newsletter, we have introduced a new feature
we hope you will find beneficial. In order to provide you with more in-depth
information in some topic areas, including the nuts and bolts of how the Lending
Library operates, we have decided to utilize a FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
format. Please e-mail or call us allowing us the benefit of your opinion. Suggestions
also welcome for topics you would like to see covered in more detail in future
issues.
As always, on behalf of the Lending Library staff, I thank you for your hard
work and dedication!
See you again in the Fall. --Anne Macleod
NEW!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about…
Helping Tools
What is the "Helping Tools" training?
The "Helping Tools" training is a train-the-trainer program to teach people
how to teach others about the scope, benefit, and potential of assistive technology.
Pennsylvania's Initiative on Assistive Technology (PIAT) has developed two "Helping
Tools" training curricula to date, one focused on older Pennsylvanians and their
caregivers and one on young Pennsylvanians (birth-3) and their families. A third
training about assistive technology which may be useful for consumers served
by the mental health system is currently being developed.
What does the "Helping Tools" program provide?
Each "Helping Tools" program consists of a full day training session, a resource
manual which includes reproducible materials, and a demonstration kit which
can be accessed from Pennsylvania's Assistive Technology Lending Library. The
training session and resource manual may be free or offered at the cost of materials.
Free loans of the demonstration kit are available through Pennsylvania's Assistive
Technology Lending Library. Attendees at the training must agree to train at
least six others and complete a follow-up report.
Can I borrow a kit even if I haven't attended a training?
Yes. The Helping Tools kits are available for anyone to borrow, although the
selection of items is targeted for demonstration purposes rather than for trial
use by a consumer.
When and where can I attend a "Helping Tools" training?
PIAT is currently planning a "Helping Tools for Young Pennsylvanians and their
Families" session for Spring, 2001 in western Pennsylvania. Other "Helping Tools"
trainings will be scheduled throughout the year. As a local branch of Pennsylvania's
Assistive Technology Lending Library, you will receive announcement of these
sessions.
Can my agency sponsor a "Helping Tools" training?
Yes! PIAT will be delighted to work with your organization to conduct a Helping
Tools training. You will be asked to guarantee 15 participants, who must commit
to train others. In addition, you will be asked to assist with the local arrangements
and offset some of the costs of training (e.g. PIAT staff travel costs; materials
costs). Contact Jan Knuth, Training Coordinator, at (215) 204-5397 (voice) or
(800) 204-7428 (voice); (800) 750-7428 (TTY) for more details.
1999-2000 Annual Report
Copies of the 1999-2000 Annual Report on Pennsylvania's Assistive Technology
Lending Library are now available. To request a copy, call Zona Martin, Project
Assistant, at (800) 204-7428 (voice) or (800) 750-7428 (TTY). Alternative formats
available upon request.
Product Focus: Assistive Technology in the Early Years
Assistive Technology as a Tool in Functional Activities
Functional Activity
Some Possible Assistive
Technology Solutions
Moving /
Exploring the environment
Manual and power chairs
Walkers
Scooter boards
Tricycles
Positioning/sitting/standing in a stable and comfortable position
Standers
Rifton Chairs
Corner chairs
Engaging in 'activities of daily living'
Adapted utencils
Hook-and-loop closures on clothes
Grab bars
Shower chairs
Adapted toilet seats
Controlling Environment
Communication device
Ultra 4 to turn lights, TV, radio on and off
Communicating
Voice output communication devices
Communication boards/books
Object boards
Hearing
Hearing aids
Assistive listening devices
Doorbell/phone signalers
Seeing
Glasses
Magnifying glasses
Large print books
Braille
Screen readers
CCTVs
Participating in Pre-academic activities
Adapted pencils/crayons
Slant boards
Adapted scissors
Computer software and access devices (expanded keyboards, adapted mice etc.)
Playing
Switch-adapted toys
Appropriate off-the-shelf toys
Dycem
NOTE: For safety reasons certain toys should not be used alone by children
under 3 years without adult supervision.
Helping Tools for Young Pennsylvanians with Disabilities and their Parents
(Demo Kit)
Contents of Demonstration Kit: Inventory Code: EI- HTYP
NOTE: Items shown are only a sampling of the items that are included in this
kit. When the items are also available for loan individually, the inventory
code is noted.
Tools for Augmenting Communication:
Big Mack Switch: Single-message voice output communication device that has 20-second
recordable message. Approx: $89; Inventory Code: SH-BM; From: AbleNet
Tech Four 4x4:
Voice output communication device with 1 level and 4 recordable messages. Approx:
$145; Inventory Code: AC-TFOUR; From ACCI, Inc.
Tools For Adapting "Off The Shelf" Toys:
Battery Interrupters: Used to adapt battery-operated toys. Approx: $8; From:
Maxi Aids, Inc.
Jack Adapters: Used to adapt the size of the switch input jack. Approx: $5;
From: Radio Shack type store.
Tools for Art/ Writing/ Playing: (only one item shown)
Bulb Holder: Used to hold writing and art utensils. Approx: $13.50; From Sammons
Preston.
Tools For Environmental Control:
Ultra 4L Environmental Control Unit (ECU): This unit can be used to control
up to four different battery-operated switch toys or operate any electrical
appliance. Approx: $243; Inventory Code: ECU-ULTRA; From: TASH.
Sight and Sound Wireless Doorbell: This doorbell provides a visual clue (flashing
light) and amplified chime when the doorbell is sounded. Approx: $69; From:
Soundbytes.
TOYS and SWITCHES:
Small Textured Switch: Texture on this switch provides tactile stimulation and
is used to access battery-operated toys, etc. Approx: $30; From: Sammons Preston.
TV & VCR Remote: A switch that can used to access basic TV and VCR functions.
Approx: $82; From: ACCI, Inc. Inventory Code: ECU-ACTV
Koosh Switch: This switch provides tactile and visual feedback while providing
access to a battery-operated toy, etc. Approx: $45; From: Enabling Devices.
Switch Activated Toy:
Battery operated switch toy that can accessed by a single switch or an environmental
control device (ECU). Approx: $24; From Enabling Devices.
Additional Toy and Switch Kits Available for Loan
Kits include a variety of switches and for the Toy Kits, both switches, toys
and necessary adapters.
TASH Switch Kit 1: Inventory Code: SH-KIT1
TASH Single Switch Kit : Inventory Code: SH-SING
Switch Activated Toys: Kit 1: Inventory Code: RE:TOY-1
Switch Activated Toys: Kit 2: Inventory Code: RE:TOY-2
Early Intervention Items Available For Loan Individually
Adapted Toys and Games
Talking Bubble Busy Box
Busy Boxes are perfect for encouraging exploration. The Talking Bubble Busy
Box talks, entertains and provides multiple-sensory stimulation. Features a
four message recorder/player with a set of lights and a vibrator. Total record
time is 20 seconds at 5 seconds per message. Approx: $127; Inventory Code: ED-BBB-TALK;
From: Enabling Devices.
Bubble Busy Box with AM/FM Radio
Kids push the brightly colored buttons or tug on the ball pull switches, and
they'll activate one of the vibrators, lights or music boxes. Great for developing
eye-hand coordination, fine motor skills and gross arm movements. Approx: $95;
Inventory Code: ED-BBB-RADIO; From: Enabling Devices.
Useful Tools For At Home and At School
Light Box
This multi-purpose light box can be used as a light source for children with
visually impairments. When used with the special sets of materials designed
by APH, the Light Box promotes awareness of light, color, and objects and assists
in the tasks involving tracking, scanning, eye-hand coordination, visual discrimination,
and visual perceptual skills. It is easily activated with a switch and accepts
both 1/4" and 1/8" plugs. Approx: $329; Inventory Code: ED-LTBX; From: American
Printing House for the Blind (APH).
Light Box Materials: Levels I-III
There are three sets of progressive educational materials in the Lending Library
to be used in conjunction with the Light Box. The Level I materials are a valuable
tool in helping students with low vision gain and focus visual attention. The
second kit was designed for and evaluated with students who are visually challenged
functioning from 3 to 5 years of age. These materials are intended to aid in
teaching matching and identification of tangible and pictured shapes and objects,
more complex discrimination and identification tasks involving part-whole relationships,
sequencing, pattern duplication, spatial relationships, and visual memory. The
third and final kit facilitates the development of residual vision in children
functioning from 4 to 6 years of age and assists in developing more than 10
different skills, including: prewriting/ handwriting, matching/ sorting, recognition
and identification, spatial relationships, visual memory, sequencing, figure-ground
discrimination, visual closure, and part-whole relationships. Inventory Codes:
ED-LTBX-LEV1, LEV2, & LEV3; Approx: $350-$750 (depending on which level);
From: APH.
All-Turn-It Spinner
This flexible accessory can be used to replace dice in any game or with any
of the activity sets, games or sticker sets available. Comes with dice overlay
allowing users to participate in any commercially available game requiring either
one or two dice. The inner overlay and pointer spin independently, giving you
more ways to use the spinner for learning. It operates using a built-in switch
or can use a variety of alternative switches. Approx: $89; Inventory Code: RE-SPIN-1;
Available through ACCI, Inc.
Spinner Games
A range of spinner games for free-time enjoyment or leisure/skill development
where anyone can play and win. Each package includes everything you need to
play. Sets included in the Switch Activated Toy Kits are the Bowling and Golf
Game Set, Bingo Game Set, and Soccer and Basketball Game Set. If purchased individually,
each would cost approximately $24. Inventory Code: RE:TOY-1
Spin 'N' Spell Activity Set
Includes the book 'On a Roll to Spelling and More', 64 motivating games to teach
language arts activities and comes with pre-printed overlay letters (A-Z) and
instructions for play with the All-Turn-It-Spinner. Inventory Code: RE-TOY1+2;
Available through ACCI, Inc.
Helping Tools: Demo Kit (con't from page 2)
Below is a variety of off-the-shelf items available at local retailers that
can serve as assistive technology for young children with disabilities.
KidTrac Mouse: Available for both PC and MAC, this mouse/trackball combination
device provides alternative computer access for young children. Approx: $69;
From: Mayer-Johnson.
Talking Photo Frame: This item can be used as a single-message (10 second recordable
message) voice output communication device. Approx: $15; From: Radio Shack.
Toy Reacher: A reacher that can be used for picking up objects such as toys,
books, etc. Approx: $4.95; From: Toys R Us.
Wrist Rattle: For children who cannot hold a conventional rattle, this one uses
Velcro to wrap/secure around the wrist. Approx: $5; Available through mass merchandisers
who carry baby items.
Early Independence in Dressing and Around the Home
Note: Unless otherwise noted, the items listed below are from Sammons Preston.
Pediatric Sock Donner: An aid in independent dressing, the sock is simply
slipped over the core, the user then inserts foot and pulls the sock on with
two ropes. Approx: $5
Wall Switch Extender: This device is used to make light switches more accessible
to children or individuals utilizing a wheelchair. Approx: $8.25.
Infant/ Toddler Safety Toothbrush: An enlarged ring-shaped handle makes this
easy to hold and reduces the risk of gagging while brushing teeth. Approx: $3.75.
Spyrolaces: A great solution for kids who lack the fine motor skills necessary
to tie shoelaces. Once tied, they stay in place. Approx: $2.
Zipper Gripper: This device extends the zipper making it easier to grasp. Approx:
$1.
Animal Switches
Included in the Helping Tools Kit and available for loan in the Lending Library
Toy Kits (see pg. 2), these switches are indeed "kid-friendly." Approx: $40;
Inventory Code: SH-KIT1-KITTY; From: ACCI, Inc.
PA Early Intervention Resources Online
Early Intervention Technical Assistance (E.I.T.A.)
This website will provide you with information concerning Early Intervention
Technical Assistance (EITA) in Pennsylvania.
http://www.nauticom.net/www/eita/index.html
Pennsylvania Early Intervention:
A Newsletter of the State Interagency Coordinating Council
http://www.nauticom.net/www/eita/paeinews.html
Tools for Activities of Daily Living:
Note: Unless otherwise noted, the items listed below are from Sammons Preston.
Scooper Plate:
Scoop feature allows for easier capture of food and the non-skid bottom helps
with stability. Approx: 7.95; From: Maddak, Inc.
Food Bumper:
Used to both contain food in a small area on the plate and provide an edge to
help capture food. Approx: $3.
Long Handle Infant Spoon (with plastic coating):
The plastic coating on this spoon helps reduce the bite reflex. Approx: $4.50.
Pediatric Flexible Fork:
Eating utensil with a long, flexible soft handle that can be positioned to achieve
a custom fit. Approx: $6.25.
Nosey Cup:
Drinking cup with a cut-out for the nose which allows the child to drink without
having to tilt their head. Approx: $2.75.
Defining 'Assistive Technology Device' for Young Children with Disabilities
Assistive Technology Device: Assistive technology includes a wide range of
tools which support and extend the child's existing abilities; support the child's
functioning; and help the child achieve the practical and developmental goals
or functional outcomes contained in the Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP).
Assistive technology includes adaptations or special equipment that:
Make things easier to turn on (adaptive switch or larger knob)
Hold things steady or in place (Velcro or clamps)
Help with seating a child (swing or chair inserts)
Help a child to be bathed, dressed or fed (bath supports, built up utensils)
Help a child play (switch toys/switches, extenders on toy parts)
Help a child with early learning (picture and storybook software)
Help a child communicate (tape recorders/loop tapes, choice boards)
Help a child move (scooters, walkers, inserts, push carts)
Help a child to hear or see better (magnifiers, penlights)
Help children control things (call systems, remotes)
[Adapted from Key Notes, created by the Access Group, 1992]
Noteworthy……..
"What lies behind us and what lies before us are small matters compared to what
lies within us".
--Ralph Waldo Emerson
"The reasonable man adapts himself to the world; the unreasonable one persists
in trying to adapt the world to himself. Therefore all progress depends on the
unreasonable man."
- George Bernard Shaw
CUSTOMER FOCUS: First Person Story
Dear PIAT,
As a Mom of a preschooler with developmental disabilities, I am writing to thank
you for the all information and support I have received from your organization.
Being a first time parent who knew little about raising a child with special
needs, I was elated upon discovering through the materials you sent me, just
how many assistive tools there were out there to help me!
I no longer struggle with my son in everyday tasks such as mealtime and he is
actually learning to eat independently, thanks to the special utensils, cups
and bowls I ordered after reading your materials. There is no greater joy than
seeing the look of satisfaction on his face when he does it for himself! Not
to mention, the dwindling number of tantrums because he is no longer so frustrated.
Now that I know there is assistance out there for Moms like me, and an endless
number of solutions for the daily challenges we encounter, I no longer feel
so isolated or tired!
Thanks again for all your assistance! -Julie Summers
Early Childhood Items Available for Loan Individually
TACK-TILES Braille System
TACK-TILES are small rectangular blocks (similar to Legos) which show Braille
symbols as large raised dots (tactile) and also show the corresponding alpha
print symbol for that Braille character. The blocks snap on to a board much
like Lego toys. Each set contains 320 TACK-TILES, 4 large boards and 4 smaller
boards for students. English, French, German, Italian and Spanish literary Braille
codes, as well as musical notation, Nemeth Math Code and computer Braille code
sets are also available. Useful for children as young as three years. Approx:
$329; Inventory Code: WR-BRAIL; From: Tack-Tiles, LLC
TouchWindow
This portable touch screen takes advantage of children's natural desire to reach
out and touch what they see on the computer screen. They can make selections,
move objects, pull down menus and draw graphics with the touch of a finger.
Ideal for students who have trouble manipulating the mouse and especially effective
with preschoolers/ early learners. Also recommended for students with developmental
or physical disabilities. Approx: $335; Inventory Codes: HW-TOUCH-MAC, HW-TOUCH-WIN;
From: Edmark, Inc.
Tools that Promote and Aid in the Development of Language
Sequencer by Adaptivation
The Sequencer is a one-button sequential messaging communication aid allowing
you to program messages in a preset order and then play them back in succession.
It utilizes digital recording technology to allow for natural voice communication.
Two message levels allow a sequence of multiple messages up to 60 seconds of
recording time. Equipped with relay/switch output capabilities for cause and
effect skill building, an external switch jack and adjustable volume. Approx:
$119; Inventory Code: AC-SEQ; Available through: ACCI, Inc.
Chipper by Adaptivation
The Chipper is a one-button single message communication aid that utilizes digital
recording technology to allow for natural voice communication. Allows up to
20 seconds of recording time. Equipped with relay/switch output capabilities
for cause and effect skill building, an external switch jack and adjustable
volume. Approx: $79; Inventory Code: AC-CHIP; Available through: ACCI, Inc.
Talking Four Compartment Communicator
This compartmentalized communicator is designed for teaching early communication
skills. You use it by placing objects or pictures in each of the compartments.
Then, by pressing down on the corresponding colored switch plate (in front of
each compartment), a sound is produced when a choice is made, expressing the
answer or need. Each switch produces a different tone when pressed. Messages
can be easily recorded and re-recorded. (Up to 20 second recording time). Approx:
$140; Inventory Code: AC-TK4CC; From: Enabling Devices.
Grooved Platform Communicator
This easy-to-use communicator supports development of verbal interaction. Operated
by direct touch, this colorful, creative tool is ideal for teaching beginning
communication skills. Simply place objects or pictures on the raised platform,
press the appropriate switchplate, and lights and a 5-second pre-recorded voice
message will automatically activate. Messages can be easily recorded and re-recorded
as often as you wish. Comes with three shatterproof plastic cards (can be placed
in the grooves on the front or back). Approx: $135; Inventory Code: AC-GROOVE;
From: Enabling Devices.
Clip Talk
This lightweight portable Clip Talk communicator attaches anywhere and allows
you to record and re-record one 20-second or two 10-second messages. It contains
a spring reinforced clip that snaps onto a wheelchair, walker, bed-rail, stroller
or virtually any other tubular or rectangular object. Clip Talk is activated
by a built-in switch and is available with jacks for use with external switches.
Approx: $69.95; Inventory Code: AC-CTALKD; From: Enabling Devices.
Parent Resources: Catalogs and Information Materials
Early Intervention in Pennsylvania. This guidebook is written for Pennsylvania
parents of children with disabilities birth to 3, to assist them in understanding
their rights, designing an appropriate early intervention program and developing
a strong network of support and resources. Parent Education Network (1998).
Available free from Parent Education Network, 2107 Industrial Hwy, York, PA
17402. Call toll-free 800-522-5827 to request a copy.
But What about My Deaf Child? A guide to special education in Pennsylvania for
parents of children who are deaf or hard of hearing. Duncan, V. (1997). Available
for free from Parent Education Network, 2107 Industrial Hwy, York, PA 17402.
Call toll-free (800) 522-5827 to request a copy.
Commonly Used Switches and Switch Interfaces. This booklet describes a sampling
of switches and switch interfaces on the commercial market. The booklet is not
a complete listing of available products nor is it an endorsement of any of
the listed switches/switch interfaces. Instructional Support System of Pennsylvania.
Available free from Central Instructional Support System, 6340 Flank Drive,
Suite 600, Harrisburg, PA 17112-2793; Toll-free (800) 360-7282 (PA only). http://www.cisc.k12.pa.us.
Low Technology Adaptation Materials. This booklet is a collection of low technology
adaptations written for families and service providers. Instructional Support
System of Pennsylvania (1997). Available for free from Central Instructional
Support System, 6340 Flank Drive, Suite 600, Harrisburg, PA 17112-2793; Toll-free
(800) 360-7282 (PA only). http://www.cisc.k12.pa.us
Digitized Speech Communication Systems. This booklet describes a sampling of
digitized speech output communication systems. It is an attempt to identify
the input, processing and output features associated with available systems.
This booklet is not meant to be a complete listing of available products nor
is an endorsement of any of the listed augmentative communication systems. Instructional
Support System of Pennsylvania (1999). Available for free from Central Instructional
Support System, 6340 Flank Drive, Suite 600, Harrisburg, PA. Toll-free (800)
360-7282 (PA only). http://www.cisc.k12.pa.us
Guide to Toys for Children who are Blind or Visually Impaired. This is a joint
initiative of Toy Manufacturers of America and American Foundation for the Blind.
Toy Manufacturers of America and American Foundation for the Blind (2000). Available
free by calling toll-free (800) 851-9955.
Toy Guide for Differently-Abled Kids. This was a joint initiative of the National
Lekotek Center and 'Toys R Us'. It is a catalog displaying a collection of toys
that have been chosen for their developmental and educational attributes, specifically
for children with disabilities. Toys R Us and National Lekotek Center (2000).
Available free by calling toll-free (800) 732-3298.
Closer Look is a publication of the Pennsylvania Department of Education, Bureau
of Special Education and the Instructional Support System of Pennsylvania. This
particular issue focuses on assistive technology and education. Closer Look
(Fall 1999). Available free from EISC (610) 265 7321.
Backyards and Butterflies. Greenstein, D.B. (1995). Cambridge, MA: Brookline
Books. This book is directed toward children and their participation in 'backyard'
activities. It contains valuable information for children who require adaptations
to enjoy outdoor activities. The section on materials provides a useful introduction
to simple materials which are easily obtained to assist in implementing adaptive
solutions. $14.95. Available from Brookline Books, P.O. Box 1047, Cambridge,
MA 02238, toll-free (800) 666-BOOK.
EVENT ANNOUNCEMENTS:
Here We Go Again: Conference on Recycling, Re-use and Re-distribution of Assistive
Technology
When: November 8 and 9, 2000
Where: Harrisburg, PA
For more information and to register, contact Janice Knuth at PIAT.
DID YOU KNOW YOU COULD 'REEP' THE BENEFITS?
Recycled Equipment Exchange Project (REEP)
The Recycled Equipment Exchange Project (REEP) is a classified listing of assistive
technology to sell, buy, or donate. REEP is a free statewide service for people
with disabilities, their families, friends, service providers and other interested
individuals. Equipment in the REEP listing can range from simple home adaptations,
to wheelchairs, to computers and software. REEP, a program of Pennsylvania's
Initiative on Assistive Technology (PIAT), is maintained by the Center for Independent
Living of Southwestern PA (CILSWPA).
Nanci Lederman, REEP Coordinator
Center for Independent Living of Southwestern PA
Ph: (800) 633-4588 (Voice), Monday-Friday 1:00-4:00
TTY: (412) 371-6230, Monday-Friday 1:00-4:00 ~ Fax (412) 371-9430
http://www.temple.edu/inst_disabilities/piat/ ~ E-mail: cilswpa@aol.com
WHERE CAN I PURCHASE THESE ITEMS?
The American Printing House for the Blind, Inc. (APH)
1839 Frankfort Avenue, P.O. Box 6085
Louisville, Kentucky 40206-0085
Ph: (800) 223-1839 ~ Fax: (502) 899-2274 ~ http://www.aph.org/
Augmentative Communication Consultants, Inc. (ACCI)
280-B Moon Clinton Road ~ Dept. 96-I, Moon Township, PA 15108
Ph: (800) 982-2248 ~ Fax: (412) 269-0923
http://www.acciinc.com
Edmark Corporation
P.O. Box 97021, Redmond, WA 98073-9721
Ph: (800) 691-2986 ~ http://www.edmark.com/
Toys for Special Children & Enabling Devices
385 Warburton Ave, Hastings-on-Hudson, NY 10706
Ph: (800) TEC-TOYS (1-800-832-8697)
Fax: (914) 478-7030 ~ E-Mail: info@enablingdevices.com
http://www.enablingdevices.com/
Sammons Preston
5405 Alton Pkwy #5A, Irvine, CA 92604-3718
Ph: (800) 961-0023 ~ http://www.sammonspreston.com/
TACK-TILES Braille Systems LLC
P.O. Box 475, Plaistow, NH 03865
Ph: (800) TACK-TILE ~ Fax: (603) 382-1748
http://www.tack-tiles.com
*Artist rendering of boy and dog on page one, compliments of QED, Ltd. Copyright
permission to reprint granted. http://www.qedltd.com.
Editor: Anne Macleod E-mail: tq97@philly.infi.net
CONTACT INFORMATION:
Pennsylvania's Assistive Technology Lending Library
Institute on Disabilities UAP/ Temple University
Room 423 Ritter Hall Annex
Philadelphia, PA 19122
Call toll-free: (800) 204-PIAT (voice), (800) 750-PIAT (TTY)
http://www.temple.edu/inst_disabilities/atlend
E-mail: piat@astro.temple.edu
NEXT MONTH: WRITING AND WRITTEN EXPRESSION
This Newsletter is available in alternate formats upon request or visit our
webpage for text and PDF versions. http://www.temple.edu/inst_disabilities/atlend/news/