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Article 3. Using Computers at Home:
"How To" for Parents

Augmentative communication aids (e.g., communication books, boards, and wallets; portable communication devices with speech and/or written output, communication software), as well as computers and interactive software can enhance the speech, language, and interactive skills of persons with Down syndrome. Meyers²⁵ was among the first to demonstrate the facilitative effects of using a computer with preschool children with Down syndrome in the early 1980s.

The computer is well-established as a powerful learning tool and an interactive context. In a recent study, Schery and O'Connor²⁶ concluded that severely handicapped children (some of whom had Down syndrome) made improvements in specific vocabulary, more general language skills, and social skills after an intervention that involved individualized, clinician-facilitated computer training in addition to a classroom communication curriculum.

Children in their study were able to sustain interest and respond over a period of at least 10 weeks. Parents and teachers felt positive about the instruction. These researchers discussed the concern about implementation of their approach in a cost effective manner. They speculated that such training could be implemented by paraprofessionals, parent volunteers or peer tutors after initial training and consultation from communication and technology specialists.

In 1990, the National Down Syndrome Society initiated a Computer Education Program directed by Joan Tanenhaus and conducted in Nassau County, New Jersey. Goals were to promote optimal use of computers with children from ages 5 to 13 years and their families. A series of booklets entitled Home-Based Computer Program for Children with Down Syndrome are now available describing the results of this program.²

Facts and Information describes the program and gives specific information to parents interested in establishing computer use in the home with a child who has Down syndrome. This booklet is thorough and practical. It tells parents how to get started and contains practical information sheets covering 20 topics including: choosing a computer (Apple II, Macintosh, Commodore or IBM/compatible computers are included). It also covers Voice output options, using a single switch, the Power pad, Touch window, and Unicorn board, as well as information about software selection, public domain software, education and recreational goals, and parent advocacy.

Computer Software Guide identifies specific software, hardware and adaptive equipment appropriate to children with Down syndrome. This comprehensive guide covers software for the Apple II, IIgs, IBM compatible, Macintosh and Commodore 64. In addition, it delineates the type of software (cause and effect-error, language development, reading, writing, math, memory, keyboarding, art, music, and access method and output options), publisher, grade and type of computer required, and recommends a variety of adaptive equipment.

Summary and Suggestions for Program Replication describes, step by step, how to implement and evaluate a computer education program for families of children with Down syndrome. The manual describes home visits, group session, parent training sessions in a month-by-month time frame. Included are forms, letters, loan agreements, and evaluation guidelines for children and software, and consumer satisfaction forms to assess the effects of the program. Why reinvent the wheel?

Booklets cost $12.00 each and are available from NDSS, 666 Broadway, New York, NY 10012.

Using Computers To Help Children With Down Syndrome by J. Willner is also available for $5 from the address above. It discusses some benefits from using computer technologies and defines the basic components of a computer system.

This article appears in ACN Volume 5, # 3.

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