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What Exactly Are Autism And PDD?

Did you know that autism and PDD occur four times more often in boys than girls? Want to learn more? Check out this short but thorough overview from NICHCY.

Closing The Gap - Technology In Special Education
By: Renata Bursten, Dragonfly Staff

Computers are tools that can provide solutions to many problems facing people with disabilities today.

If you are looking for information on assistive or augmentitive communication or assistive technology for computer access, then this site is one of the first places to g for up to date information.

There are many informative articles available on topics that range from Music and users of assistive technology in a classroom setting to Parent Training and Information Centers and Community Groups.

The Closing The Gap web site also features an extensive Resource Directory,

Included in it is a collection of computer-related products and services available to assist persons with disabilities. It contains descriptions and manufacturer contact information for products determined appropriate for use in special education and rehabilitation. It is produced annually and viewed by many as the major print resource in the field.

Closing The Gap

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Crystal Drop Ball: Sensory Integration and Balance

Try sitting the child cross-legged on a ball. Hold their hips firmly, and slowly roll the ball from the center out in the forward directions on a gentle angle. Watch to see how (and if) the child compensates for the new angle of their trunk. We want to see the chin tip back towards level with the floor. This signifies the understanding that "upright" is not always determined by the position of the hips relative to the floor, but rather is cued by the relation of the inner ears to the floor. Prompt the child to "sit up straight" both with verbal and demonstrative cues. Once the rolling forward is mastered, work on backwards, side-to-side, and in a gentle circular motion. The see-through ball adds extra fun!