Why Assistive Tech Matters
As Executive Director of Joey’s Journeys, I’ve seen firsthand how the right technology can unlock the world for children with disabilities. Apps designed for communication, learning, and life skills are not just digital tools—they are bridges to independence.
One Joey’s Journeys family recently told us how the Proloquo2Go app became their nonverbal son’s voice during a family trip. Because of this app, he could order food, express needs, and engage in conversations that would have otherwise been impossible. That’s the kind of transformation we want every child to experience, whether they’re in school, at home, or exploring the world.
Communication Apps: Giving Every Child a Voice
Children who are nonverbal or have speech delays often benefit from AAC (augmentative and alternative communication) tools. These apps help children express themselves and participate more fully in school, therapy, and social settings.
Top Picks:
- Proloquo2Go – A highly customizable AAC system for children who use symbols or text to communicate.
- Avaz AAC – Designed for ease of use, with visual supports and voice output.
- Speech Blubs – A fun, interactive speech app with video modeling for speech development.
Learning Apps: Supporting Cognitive and Academic Growth
The right educational apps can make learning feel like play while helping children meet developmental milestones.
Top Picks:
- Endless Alphabet – Builds early literacy using animated characters to teach words and phonics.
- Todo Math – Engages kids with visual math games aligned with early elementary standards.
- Special Words – Allows customization to teach sight words and language using a familiar voice and pictures.
Daily Life and Executive Functioning Apps
For children who need support with routines, self-care, or transitions, these apps can help reduce stress and build independence.
Top Picks:
- Choiceworks – Offers visual schedules, feelings boards, and timers to support emotional regulation.
- First Then Visual Schedule – Helps with structured routines and step-by-step instructions.
- iDo Hygiene – Teaches self-care tasks through realistic video modeling.
Tools for Teachers, Therapists, and Inclusive Classrooms
Educators and therapists can enhance inclusive learning through these creative and behavioral tools.
Top Picks:
- Seesaw – Enables student portfolios and easy family-teacher communication.
- Book Creator – Inspires creativity with personalized storytelling and digital books.
- ClassDojo – Supports behavior management and builds classroom culture with real-time feedback.
Choosing the Right App for Your Child
Not all apps are created equal—and not every app works for every child. When choosing an app, consider:
- Is the interface intuitive and age-appropriate?
- Can it be customized to meet your child’s needs?
- Is it aligned with your child’s IEP or therapy goals?
- Does it support multiple languages or voices?
To help you make informed decisions, check out trusted app review sites like Common Sense Media and BridgingApps by Easterseals.
Real-Life Example: A Joey’s Journeys Success Story
During a recent Joey’s Journeys trip, one of our travelers used First Then Visual Schedule to manage the airport process. With the app’s help, they could see what to expect next—from security checks to boarding—which reduced anxiety and made the entire journey smoother for both the child and their parents.
These small changes make big adventures possible.
Let’s Build a More Inclusive Future Together
Apps like these aren’t just for home or the classroom. They are essential travel tools, too—helping our kids navigate hotels, theme parks, airports, and new environments.
At Joey’s Journeys, we believe in inclusion through action. That includes sharing resources that empower families and children wherever they are—at home, in school, or exploring the world.
Ways You Can Support Joey’s Journeys
We can’t do this without your help. Your support makes it possible for us to share and provide tools like these to families everywhere.
Here’s how you can help:💸 Donate to fund access to educational and communication apps
- Introduce us to families, educators, or therapists who would benefit
- Share this post with your network or local school
- Join our newsletter to receive inclusive travel and education tips
Conclusion & Call to Action
Technology should empower, not exclude. The right app can change a child’s day—or their life. Let’s make sure every child has access to the tools they need to communicate, learn, and grow confidently.
📣 Take Action Now:
- Share this post with a parent, educator, or therapist
- Donate or volunteer to help more families get the support they need
Use and follow these hashtags:
#InclusiveTech #SpecialNeedsApps #JoeysJourneys #AccessibleAdventures
