Fundraiser for an iPad, Case and Warranty for Austin Primer

We are fundraising for an iPad for Austin Primer. Austin is a 10 year old boy with Autism. Austin is non verbal, he has been through several talking devices. He has the most success with the iTouch and Proloquo2go. The downside to the iTouch is its size. Austin many times has to go back because it is to small and he hits the wrong PEC. An iPad would make navigating Proloquo2go easier and give Austin a better chance at success at communicating with his friends and family.

Austin would also need a case. iAdapter is getting good reviews for protection and the fact that it has built in speakers. You can also hide the home button so that you can't leave Proloquo2go which Austin often does on the iTouch. Not being able to leave the program will also help Austin be more successful.

Even with the best case we would also get a SquareTrade.com warranty to protect against damage.

Thanks for reading, hopefully donating, and passing along our link to anyone who you think could help Austin.

iPad story on Good Morning America

http://abcnews.go.com/Technology/parent-debate-ipads-smartphones-teach-toddlers-read/story?id=13626381

I think there are flaws in this “news” story. The small blonde girl was NOT READING, she was matching. The story asks if these apps teach kids to read. NO THAT app teaches letters and matching, a clearly appropriate skill for her age group.

Also the difference between this and TV is TV is passive, this is not.
Now I am not saying this should be a babysitter any more than TV should but it can be a useful learning tool when used appropriately.

Also I encounter this all the time with parents about how their child will not give something up or stop doing something. As a parent to 4 children, age 21, 19, 11, and a child with Autism age 9. Just say no. You are the parent, BE THE PARENT!! (but I regress and this is another blog)

As the parent of a child with Autism GMA should do a story on how iPad's, iTouches and apps are changing our children's world. There is an awesome mom, in San Diego, Janine Boleda of Good Karma Apps who is changing the world of children with Autism with her inexpensive apps. many companies are making apps and charging parents an arm and a leg for them, but not Janine. She is doing it for quality of life for our kids not to make a profit. Every $ she makes goes back into the next app she creates and not her pocket!!!

GMA should do a story on Janine and no I am not her, just a huge fan!!!!

If you agree, please go comment on GMA’s story.