iPads for kids with autism

The HollyRod Foundation is donating Apple iPads to kids with autism who are either nonverbal or have severe difficulty communicating. Fortunately, the iPad in combination with special software can give many of these kids the ability to communicate. To receive an iPad, families must meet income requirements. Software for the iPad will be purchased with a gift card from the foundation, and a professional (speech pathologist, doctor, teacher) working with the child must take responsibility for the card.

To apply, download and complete the application here: http://fifthfreedom.org/u/55. ("Holiday 2010 iPad Application" at the bottom of the page.) If clicking the link does not work, copy and paste the link into your browser's address bar.

Attach some documentation of your child's diagnosis and verbal abilities, and financial need. Applications are due by 11:59 pm on December 31, 2010. Grantees will be notified in January of 2011.

For more information about the HollyRod Foundation, visit http://www.hollyrod.org.

Toys

Looking for a toy this season for a child with autism? Need some help figuring out just what to get? Check out this guide before you shop:

http://susansenator.com/choosingtoys.html

Then be prepared on Cyber Monday with this short list. There are many more stores that sell toys for children with autism, but this will help get you started:

• http://www.bbbautism.com/gifts_for_the_autistic_child.htm
• http://kidscopetoys.com/
• http://autism.about.com/od/childrenandautism/tp/ChildrenandAutism.htm
• http://www.toysforautism.com/
• http://www.nlconcepts.com/products/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=121_122&zenid=8a96edb9489d135252762456c5d20a33
• http://www.especialneeds.com/aba-autism-games-toys-puzzles.html
• http://www.autism-blog.com/toys-autistic-children
• http://www.stepforward123.com/
• http://www.playabilitytoys.com/Playability-Toys-Toys-for-Children-on-the-Autism-Spectrum-s/22.htm?gclid=CLe5jfeHt6UCFcnc4Aod5xf8Xw