Assistive Technology Archives - Page 2 of 3 - Debbie Drennan Assistive Technology

Keeping Access Tools Available, Always

On the weekend of 9/11, I was again reminded of how important it is always to keep the accessibility tools out and available. In particular, this post is about emergency evacuation stairchairs. On 9/11, those tools saved at least one life, and the need to have them available was clearly shown (more information can…

September Happenings

September is here already- hard to believe that summer is just about over, and Fall is upon us! I took a look at my September calendar, and realized I did not let you know all the things I am doing. So, first, let me highlight my (free!) on-line presentation I am doing with Parents Helping…

Mistakes Were Made

I made a mistake. What? No really. I am (was?) working with a family of a delightful toddler with a genetic disorder, and they were interested in helping their child communicate. This is the information I was given when this family was referred to me. He had maybe two word approximations, and he will be…

Back to School = Support a Teacher Time

It is “back to school” time, at least here in California, with many schools starting up in the next few weeks. With the shortage of teachers, and poor funding of classrooms, it is time, I believe, to also think about how we can support those teachers that are in the classrooms- new ones, as well…

My Turn to Use AT

I’m a bit late sending out my weekly blog, as I had surgery on my ankle this week. It will be several weeks of non-weight-bearing on my ankle, and I must say, I am so grateful that my home is already accessible, and has the tools I need to get around independently. I truly do…

Early Literacy for All

I recently acquired a large, black Velcro-compatible table-top display stand. Its initial purpose is as a marketing display tool. However, I also can see myself using it to display story props, communication icons, and visual routines- all kinds of things that would promote early literacy for all! The above picture is an example of how…

What am I up to now?

I am thrilled to announce my presentation, “Storytime for ALL!” has been chosen for the 9th annual statewide Inclusion Collaborative Inclusioneers Thrive! Conference. It will be a hybrid model, with options for both in-person and online only, October 18-20th. Interested in finding out more, and signing up for it? http://www.inclusioncollaborative.org/conference.aspx I still am not sure…

Eldertech and Cell Phones

I recently joined the inaugural Eldertech Advisors group, coordinated and managed by Joan Green of Innovative Speech Therapy https://innovativespeech.com/. It is a group of Occupational therapists, Speech Therapists, Retirees, AT Specialists, and others, who are all learning and sharing helpful tips and tools targeted to helping the elderly live as independently as possible. They have…

Teaching Internet Safety

I am working with a young lady currently, and one of her goals is to be more independent on her iPad and computer. I am sure she will be able to be more independent once everything is set up for her- but I also want to be sure she knows about Internet Safety. I gathered…

Free Virtual Webinars/Training for June!

Today’s blog will highlight some really good, free, virtual training and webinars that are coming up. For some reason, the end of June has a lot of free training opportunities available. All these trainings are virtual, look fantastic, and are, of course, my favorite price! Maybe I will “see” some of you at one of…