Top Ten iPad Apps for Families With Autism

CDC Statistics released in 2014 show that 1 percent of the world’s population lives on the autism spectrum. Numbers in the United States are higher, ranging up to about 15 percent between 2002 and 2010. Autism is the fastest-growing developmental disability. Despite the rapid growth and lack of a cure, there is good news. Doctors are diagnosing Autism earlier, making early intervention possible. In addition, more attention to the disorder is closing gaps and making the world a little less intimidating for those on the spectrum. One major benefit: technology. New technology has allowed significant progress in children with Autism and created tools that are at home, school or therapy. In particular: the iPad.IPromptsThis app works offers scheduling, pictures and a timer. Children can view photos of tasks they need to complete as well as timers for completing the tasks. Viewing options allow for more or less tasks to reduce anxiety and the feeling of being overwhelmed.Garage BandMany children with Autism excel at music. The Garage Band app lets children play a variety of musical instruments and record themselves playing. They can even record write their own songs.ABA Flash Cards – EmotionsChildren with Autism have a hard time with empathy. While average children determine emotions through body language, facial expressions and voice tone, most children with Autism do not. This app shows flashcards and asks the child to identify feelings based on the photo.My HorseChildren with autism can develop empathy through working and caring for animals. Most families may not be able to get a pet or allowing a child with Autism to take on the majority of the caring may not be realistic. This app allows children to pick a horse and name it. The child can feed the horse, play with it, give it rest and clean its stall. Children can also connect with other friends using the same app.Kid in Story Children and adults can create stories that include aspects of their own lives on this app. You can add in traveling or other transitions in preparation for a situation that could be difficult. You can map the entire trip or transition through a story. The app costs $6.99, but you can get the companion app free. This allows the stories to be shared with family, therapists and teachers.My Playhome This computerized dollhouse includes every activity a child might do when playing with a traditional dollhouse. Kids can cook dinner, place dolls at a table for family game night and put kids to bed. This app allows children to explore social activities without the stress of other people. There is more room to see and move. Children can share their game and ideas with others when they feel comfortable.Pictello You can help your child create their own stories with photos of your family. Children will be able to relate to the stories because they recognize the photos. This is a great way to teach them how to behave in different situations and facilitates communication through story time.Endless Alphabet This app helps your child learn to read, with a twist. Instead of teaching your child “B is for ball,” they might hear “B is for balloon or C is for Chiropractor.” With longer words and music, children’s vocabulary can grow quickly. The music and interactive games make it a fun app for most kids.iTubeLIst Children love watching videos. Children with Autism may especially love watching videos and songs on YouTube. However, this site often brings up videos that are not age-appropriate. This app lets parents create playlists the children can view. Kids can enjoy videos and parents don’t have to worry!Talking Character Apps from Outfit7There are varieties of apps including Talking Tom and Talking Angela featured among these apps. The app talks back to children, encouraging them to develop their language skills. There are different logic games as well. Kids can dress up their characters, work through puzzles, decorate their pet’s home, feed them, bathe them and put them to sleep.