The iPad, by far, has been the best piece of equipment we have ever purchased! It is well worth the money. Cj has never been so engaged in anything that is so interactive. He is doing great at pointing to make choices, playing games, drawing, even using it ALREADY to communicate with an app called Tap To Talk! I am in shock at what he knows and can not wait to bring it to school to SHOW them! I use it with him every day when he gets home from school. He just beams when he I take it out.
I am going to make a list of our favorite apps and accessories soon and post them. I am looking into some accessories from a company called RJ Cooper, they have great ideas. I like their iPad mount, bumper case and ipad switch interface (can only be used with switch interface apps, not many yet!)
Also Cj's wheels are finally in, however it needs many adjustments...of course! The tray it came with will be perfect for the iPad. I really think the iPad will help him down the road with the Dynavox or an eye gaze device! I highly recommend it to any special needs child or adult that can point to some degree. FYI...Rj Cooper has a head pointer for those that can not use their hands! I will post a picture of Cj using the iPad in his new chair!
More good news! We are getting new wheels too...a new minivan! I am looking at the 2010 Chrysler Town and Country and the 2010 Honda Odyssey with a side entry power ramp. I am so new to this and can use any input. I got some great advice on the Yahoo Cp group!
Pictures and video coming soon!
Lisa! I hear your excitement and I am so happy for you and your family - what a huge step! We looked and looked at the IPAD but right now we can't figure out a way for Adam to access it, except that it is so visually appealing. You have had a great start to this new year! Looking forward to hearing more about it.
ReplyDeleteSounds very exciting, we have a consult with an eye gaze dynavox system in a few weeks. We are keeping our fingers crossed...We have a Ford E-250 conversion van with a lift and tie downs and, of course, a flip down dvd player for Adam. It has worked well especially for those long trips to Montreal. The high top makes it easy to get in and adjust Adam as needed. Really happy for you about the ipad. Warmest wishes to all
ReplyDeleteHappy dance here, too! Mobility and communication! Can't wait to see photos!
ReplyDeleteBarbara
HI! I am SO excited for CJ! I think the iPad will be so transformative. It's wonderful how he took to it right away, but it's hard not to. The iPad really is magical for kids.
ReplyDeleteAre you looking at the Toyota Sienna, too? I don't know if it has a side entry power ramp, but if you are considering minivans, this is another popular choice. Also, there is a new minivan coming out this month, the Nissan Quest, that I test drove and thought was an excellent car. It is roomier than any of the others.
Phil, Nathan over at prayfornathan.org is using an eye-gaze device with an iPad, you might want to check it out.