Hi

Georgia is just under two years old and we are looking into geting some computer equipment for her but dont really know where to start. She is very intelligent but does not really have a great deal of control over her hand. She can hold things (ie biscuits) with a simple pinch action and is starting to strech out and touch things.
I know about switches and the cbeebies website switch games but not sure who sells the equipment and also whether grants are availiable from anywhere.

i'd apreciate any info you have and also any advice regarding your own experiences.

Thanks

Brighteyes

Hi there

We got our son a big mouse called BiG track and are getting him a keyboard with Jumbo keys for his birthday. He is going to be 4. The place to get hardware and software is Inclusive Technology www.inclusive.co.uk. There are others, but that's the company we have used and have been happy with. It is possible to get grants and IT might be able to advice you.

My son goes to mainstream pre-school and had an assessment by CENMAC recently. They assessed his needs for ICT equipment to use at school and will lend the school the equipment. They have a long waiting list so I recommend anyone who is thinking of putting their child through mainstream school to get the SENCO to contact them as soon as they start. At my son's school they use ICT from reception and I'd imagine it is similar across the country.

It's never to early to start them using computers. It's going to be such a huge part of their lives.

Hi brighteyes

I would suggest calling inclusive technology and speaking to them about what your looking for. They where wonderful when I spoke to them about games/software to use in school as there are lots to choose from!
Also try ebay for switch access toys!! http://stores.ebay.co.uk/Switch-Stuff
I work with a child in a mainstream school with CP who uses head switches which has aided her inclusion greatly and in time she will be using her switches for more and more complicated things which will help her as she gets older.

Hope this helps

Emz

I have a young man living near me and I am currently preparing a PC for his use now he has left the Secondary School.
I have found big keys keyboards on the 'net but they are so expensive, I'm retired and his finances are probably stretched so wonder if there is any help available?
I do have a Microsoft Sidewinder Joystick which he can have but someone has also suggested we try a "Roller Ball" if I've got it right.
Useful games suggestions would be much appreciated and how to get at IT help (if that's possible)

docusk

Hi

AbilityNet: http://www.abilitynet.org.uk/ can give specialist advice about IT matters.

Scope Response can make suggestions about the funding issues: 0808 800 3333 (M-F 9am to 5pm)

Best Wishes
Forum Moderator

Golly. How quick is this! Thanks a lot. I shall be off down to see the lad when he gets back from College in about 1/2 an hour,
Very many thanks.
docusk

Hi there,

I have a spare keyboard with big keys. It's currently not working because the cable with the USB stick got slightly worn so it may have a loose connection. However, I think there is a chance that it could be repaired and used again. It's yours if you want it. Unfortunately, I am not allowed to give you my details on this forum. I wonder if the moderator has a suggestion of how we can get this keyboard to you?.

Hi Mafala,

Thank you for your generous offer.

I am sure this will be taken up, however we unfortunately cannot get involved in the transferring of contact details due to our forum rules.

We would however suggest utilising another forum such as 'Special kids in the UK' who do allow such contact.

Good luck and thank you for your use of the forum.

Scope Forum Administrator

Perhaps, there is the option of looking into some form of grant.

I know these are available for higher education Students (university etc)

Maybe a charity could help.... perhaps contact scope response for further details on funding?