Physical Impairment Supports

The following list provides a few suggestions for supporting the language and literacy development of students with physical impairments.

• Use a variety of assistive technology devices, such as programmable, augmentative communication devices. These may range from low-tech, inexpensive devices to high-tech, expensive communication devices that are designed and programmed with the individual needs of the student in mind.
• Use assistive devices to help students hold books and turn the pages.
• Provide weighted pens or special grips for writing utensils to help students with physical impairments have better control when attempting to write.
• Access the computer as a primary tool for writing--use adaptive keyboards, head pointers for typing, or speech input programs. The possibilities with various assistive technology devices are endless.