Rhetoripub

​

​

As a therapist for children with mental disabilities, it is my job to make life more easily accessible and understandable I find different strategies and techniques to help students learn the same information as those their age, at a pace that works for them. Finding these items can sometimes be difficult because each student is stimulated and motivated differently. Children on the autism spectrum are known to be motivated by attention, sensory and tangible items, avoidance and other things. Recent developments in technology have increased efficiency of teachings to children with disabilities. Social stories and books are ways that teachers and caregivers can help students understand the needs of everyday life. Websites like Whiz kid have interactive stories and games for parents and students to use together for everyday activities, like getting dressed in the morning and going to school.

​

Many people confuse disabilities with being "stupid" and that is far from the truth; people with mental disabilities, especially autism struggle with communication because everyone speaks a language they do not understand. However, what if the digital world were to tweak some of the webpages and articles to tailor those who need accommodations? Currently, there are websites that have games to teach students the meaning of facial expressions and how to create them. Being able to interpret facial expressions is a function of communication. These websites are useful, not only for their the content, but for the way the pictures pop up in bright and vibrant colors. The music is joyful and soft.

Individuals with mental disabilities have very sharp creative minds, and their potential for learning can be maximized with the ability to access resources independently. Individuals with autism excel in memorization and organization skills, the love for music and dance, and find peace in warm weather and a beautiful view.

​

I have always wondered what it would be like to live in the mind of some of my clients. Is it quiet? Is it busy? Are they analytical or is everything spontaneous? What about this sensation is calming?

​

Life is beautiful and we should all be able to view it in our own way! But how!? Well, the internet could become interactive. Children should be able interact with environments on the internet by either feelings and hearing, smelling, and even touch some of the different features and things associated with that area. Not everyone has the ability to click around on a mouse pad or tap on a tablet but why shouldn't they still be able to access and use these features as well?

​

Critical development skills are more easily obtained from 18 months to 30 months. By three years old, children begin to be aware and affected by their surroundings, and during this time it is much easier for children to learn and retain information quicker. Time playing, especially outside, is a great, inexpensive way to expose children to things such as texture, color, temperature, weather, location, etc. Raising a child with autism can be difficult without first identifying all the things that stimulate and motivate the child. Name brand items and upgraded technology can be expensive and overrated. Not many children enjoy using iPads and tablets as a means to communicate, though they can use the device effectively during play. Using household items and effective stimulating devices can also aid in the learning environment. Teaching things like putting a button through a loop and zipping up a jacket can be difficult for some children and autism. Blogs such as Finding Ninee, talk aboout daily struggles with having a child with autism. This re good sources for tips and strategies for daily issues and problem behaviors. She has tons of articles separated into specific categories and this is just one of many. Kristi Campbell, blog writer, makes a point to raise awareness about the disability; however, she does not stop there. She writes about life experiences and journeys even before her son was born.  Learn more below!

​

Modern telephones, computers, and even game systems have Facetime, Skype, Oovoo, and other distance calling systems that allows us to see other millions of miles away. Children with mental and physical disabilities should have access to those things as well without having to haul around big devices in order to get a cheese burger! The device itself is awesome. It is durable but it is not portable. A lot of these users are in wheelchairs, and some need serve medical attention. It would be a joy to actually allow them to use these things outside of the home, but not while a caregiver has to to carry more important devices for care. Phones and tablets should already have the capacity to do so.

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

 

 

 

 

 

For example, for a long time I worked with a young lady who had a communication device that she could use her eyes to communicate with. Cool, right? The device was the size of a television She already had physical disabilities. How in the world is anyone going be able to get anything done with that thing?

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

Phones and computers should allow individuals with physical disabilities to use their phones and cameras to navigate through the web and telephones. Designing a webpage that creates more options for children to explore rather than force a choice. This interface will give them access to health and beauty tips, assistance in ordering a meal, and help shopping for a new outfit. Early learning creates a better life for these children and an easier life for those who have to take care of them long-term.

​

I would like to know what it is like because...

​

Life is beautiful, in every way.