Discussion about Assistive Technology and individuals with Williams syndrome with Robin Pegg and Erin Cunningham. 

What is Assistive Technology?

Assistive Technology Device
Assistive technology devices are identified in the IDEA 2004 as:
Any item, piece of equipment or product system, whether acquired commercially off the shelf, modified, or customized, that is used to increase, maintain, or improve the functional capabilities of children with disabilities.
The term does not include a medical device that is surgically implanted, or the replacement of such device.
(Authority 20 U.S.C. 1401(1))

Assistive Technology Service
As defined in IDEA, an assistive technology service is:
Any service that directly assists a child with a disability in the selection, acquisition, and use of an assistive technology device. The term includes - The evaluation of the needs of a child with a disability, including a functional evaluation of the child in the child’s customary environment; Purchasing, leasing, or otherwise providing for the acquisition of assistive technology devices by children with disabilities; Selecting, designing, fitting, customizing, adapting, applying, retaining, repairing, or replacing assistive technology devices; Coordinating and use other therapies, interventions, or services with assistive technology devices, such as those associated with existing education and rehabilitation plans and programs; Training or technical assistance for a child with a disability or, if appropriate, that child’s family; and Training or technical assistance for professionals (including individuals or rehabilitation services), employers, or other individuals who provide services to employ, or are otherwise substantially involved in the major life functions of children with disabilities.
(Authority 20 U.S.C. 1401(2))

  • Robin Pegg, MEd, COTA/L, ATP is a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant and Assistive Technology Specialist, working in the public schools for the last 13 years. Robin has extensive experience using all types of technology (low tech-high tech) to support learning and literacy development in children of all ages and ability levels. She also consults with various educational institutions to promote the implementation of Universal Design for Learning. Robin is the Recreation Director for the WSA Camp Programs.
  • Erin Cunningham is a wife and mother of two fantastic boys and is a long-time advocate for the rights of persons with disabilities. She believes strongly in the power of assistive technology as a means to assisting individuals with disabilities to reach their full potential. She has served as a board member for the West Michigan Inclusion Network for the past several years, where she is very involved in planning conferences and supporting families.

You can contact Robin and Erin at info@bridgestolifeconsulting.com