High-Tech Reading Supports for Kids with “High Support” Needs

For parents and teachers of kids with autism or cognitive disabilities, reading can sometimes feel like an impossible task. 

But it’s not!  High-tech assistive technology tools make reading possible for every child. When we partner the right tools with an assumption that EVERY kid is capable of learning, it really does become possible!

These home and classroom tools aren't just "nice to have". They can ensure that equitable opportunities are available for everyone in inclusive classrooms.

ipad with charger

What High-Tech Assistive Reading Supports Are We Talking About?

High-tech tools are not big and bulky pieces of equipment anymore! In most classrooms, and even in your home, they are readily available. Software is built into Microsoft and Google, and apps are available on your phone, iPad, and other handheld devices.  

Let's explore some of the key players:

• Speech-to-Text (Dictation): Their voice, their ideas, their words! So often kids have incredible ideas that they want to share or put on paper, but they struggle with the physical act of writing or typing. Speech-to-text technology allows them to speak their thoughts, and those words appear on a screen. This can be a game-changer for:

  • Motor skill challenges: Kids who find typing or handwriting difficult can express themselves freely.

  • Spelling hurdles: They can focus on their ideas without getting stuck on individual words.

  • Speeding up the writing process: For children whose thoughts flow faster than their hands can keep up, speech-to-text allows them to capture their ideas efficiently. Many smartphones, tablets, and computers have built-in dictation features (think Siri or Google Voice Typing!), and there are also dedicated apps like Dragon.

    
    

• Text-to-Speech (Read Aloud): Let them hear it! For children who struggle with decoding words or comprehending what they read, text-to-speech software can have a big impact on learning and deepening kids’ understanding of the content that’s being taught. This technology reads digital or scanned text aloud, often highlighting the words as they are spoken. This offers:

  • Greater comprehension: Hearing words read aloud, especially with simultaneous highlighting, can significantly improve understanding for struggling readers.

  • Increased independence: Children can access a wider range of books and materials without constant adult assistance. And let’s be honest, kids do not need a hovering adult!

  • Reduced frustration: Especially for older kids, if we can reduce the pressure of decoding, we can give them space to focus on the meaning of what they’re reading. Popular options include NaturalReader, Speechify, and built-in features on devices. Some even offer different voices and reading speeds to make it more personal.

    
    

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High-tech assistive reading supports are not a "fix" for learning differences, but give kids equitable access to grade level learning and content. They are about creating an environment where all learners can succeed.

If you're a parent or teacher wanting to explore how these learning tools can specifically benefit your kid or your students, let’s have a conversation!

Schedule a free consultation with DJ from Inclusiveology to discuss specific learning support needs for your kid. Grab a spot on my calendar here.

Schedule a consultation

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• Apps for Phones and iPads: New tools and supports are being added all the time! The app store is full of reading supports designed for neurodivergent learners. These apps can combine speech-to-text and text-to-speech functionalities, along with other engaging features:

  • Interactive e-books and digital libraries: Apps like Bookshare and Learning Ally offer vast collections of books that can be read aloud, often with customizable display options (font size, color, spacing).

  • Phonics and phonemic awareness games: Many apps use engaging activities to build foundational reading skills.

  • Visual supports: Some apps integrate visuals with text, which can be particularly helpful for children with autism who benefit from visual learning. Visuals can help kids make sense of the words they are hearing or reading.

• Communication apps (AAC): While these are not reading apps, many AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) apps (like Proloquo2Go) allow kids who do not fully use their voice to communicate to build sentences and have them spoken aloud, which indirectly supports literacy by fostering language development and expression.

Why Are These Supports So Important in an Inclusive Classroom?

Inclusive classrooms provide all students with the opportunity to learn and engage alongside their peers. High-tech assistive technology is absolutely critical to making this a reality for kids with high support needs.

Equitable Access to the Curriculum: These tools break down barriers to information. A child who can hear a textbook read aloud or dictate their thoughts for a writing assignment can engage with the same material as their classmates, even if traditional reading or writing methods are challenging. 

And remember, kids are never barriers. There is always something in the environment that can be adjusted to give them fuller access to curriculum and content.

Increased Independence and Confidence: As parents and teachers, we want kids to access information and express themselves as independently as possible. When kids are active in their own learning, their knowledge deepens, and they are less reliant on adults.

Meaningful Participation: Assistive technology empowers students to contribute to discussions, complete assignments, and collaborate with other kids in ways they might not have been able to before. This fosters a sense of belonging and truly integrates them into the classroom community.

Personalized Learning: High-tech assistive technology supports are not designed to be one-size-fits-all. When the right supports are added to the IEP, the IEP team can accurately reflect specific needs for specific kids.

Take the next step in learning what high-tech tools will best support your kid!

High-tech assistive reading supports are not a "fix" for learning differences, but give kids equitable access to grade level learning and content. They are about creating an environment where all learners can succeed.

If you're a parent or teacher wanting to explore how these learning tools can specifically benefit your kid or your students, let’s have a conversation!

Schedule a free consultation with DJ from Inclusiveology to discuss specific learning support needs for your kid. Grab a spot on my calendar by clicking HERE or visit inclusiveology.com for more information.