A new world of independence for Joshua
It has changed his life. It's opened up a whole new world of independence. We used to have to do it for him. Now he's doing it for himself, and showing us what he's been doing! - Julia, Joshua's parent
11 year old Joshua loves his new computer so much he insists on kissing it goodnight before going to bed. Joshua’s learning difficulities mean he has reduced manual dexterity, has a learning age of 4-6 and struggles with his speech.
He’s only had his Home Access package with Assistive Technology for a few weeks, but it’s already making an impact.
“He was so excited when he got it”, says mum Julia, “it’s made a massive difference. Although he wasn’t a stranger to computers before, he always needed either me or his brother to sit with him and help him. Now he tells me, “it’s my computer, my desk, my chair…” it’s given him such independence.”
The technology that’s right for the learner
The Home Access programme provides specially built packages for learners with profound disabilities or special educational needs that are tailored to the individual’s requirements. Every family that qualifies is contacted by an evaluator to identify the challenges they face and recommend appropriate technology to help overcome them.
Following an evaluation of Joshua’s specific needs he was given a package that included a desktop computer with touch screen capabilities, a trackball mouse and symbol software, as well as one year’s internet connection and an adapted keyboard.
Windows shopping
When he’s on his home computer Joshua loves to do the type of things that he doesn’t do at school. “He loves
the Thomas the Tank Engine website,” says Julia, “but I have my work cut out stopping him buying everything on there because he always finds his way to the shop!”
Schoolwork isn’t completely off the agenda though. “He’s taught both his Nan and his brother how to use the paint facility on the computer, how to print things and loads of stuff that he’s learned at school… he really knows his way around the computer now.”
For children like Joshua, the learning and life opportunities that the internet delivers and the sense of inclusion and independence it helps to promote are far too valuable to miss out on.
Independent learning
Joshua has shown a big improvement in his mouse skills since the arrival of his Home Access package and is able to draw, surf the internet or do whatever he feels like doing - on his own.
“It’s lovely to watch him,” says Julia. “Now that he has his own machine he can do the same as his brother without asking for help. I really wish I’d got him a computer before. It’s given him a chance to do the same things as any other kid.”
The Home Access programme has now closed.
