MPA Learning Differences Parent Support Group
minutes: Information was taken from the  January 7, 2008
power point presentation given by Bridget Ames, Coordinator of the Simon Technology Center, STC at PACER. Ms. Ames spoke on  “What Parents Need to Know About Assistive Technology”.
PACER’s Mission to Families
PACER Center expands opportunities and enhances the quality of life of children and young adults with disabilities and their families, based on the concept of parents helping parents.
The web site address is:
www.pacer.org
Bridget Ames can be reached by phone:  952.838.9000
or email bridget.ames@pacer.org
Pacer’s contact information:
PACER CENTER
8161 Normandale Boulevard
Minneapolis, MN 55437-1044
952.838.0190


The STC is dedicated to making the benefits of technology more accessible to children and adults with disabilities, through a collaborated effort involving parents, professionals, and consumers.

Assistive technology is defined as both a “device” and a “service.”
Ms. Ames referenced both.
Assistive Technology Device means “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 functional capabilities of a child with a disability.”

Assistive Technology Service means any service that directly assists a child with a disability in the selection, acquisition, or use of an assistive technology device.

The staff at Pacer is experienced in demonstrating a number of AT devices, in addition to time spent looking at the student’s needs, his customary environment, and the tasks he has difficulty performing, BEFORE deciding on the tools (AT). There is a five- step framework intended to help parents, staff and students assess devices a student might find helpful.

A myriad of tools are available for students. If a student needs AT assistance she may choose an apparatus from a continuum of low tech to high tech resources. Tools do not have to involve a device, a particular strategy may work as well.

Folders containing copies of the power point, pamphlets addressing a variety of concerns, magazines, and information describing AT devices are available in the office of the Upper School Learning Specialist. You may contact Patti Osman via phone: 651.777.2555, ext. 342 or email