Communication is at the heart of learning. Traditional arguments about whether or not technology can help in education have become more complex in the context of children with autism and their communication needs. Much has been discussed about the potential of mobile applications for children with autism, which can be easily seen in the field of communication, particularly augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). Mobile devices running these applications have opened up a whole new world of opportunities for those with limited expressive communication skills. But the enormous potential of mobile technologies has not been fully tapped. Rather, these technologies are implemented primarily as speech prostheses in a limited range of activities.

Parents and educators should broaden the scope of use of these devices, not just for use within the classroom and therapeutic domain. Practice is the key with apps for children with autism, so they can successfully use tablets and smartphones as communication aids. Everyone involved with autistic children should practice using the apps along with the novice students. Ongoing practice must occur both at school and at home for successful results.

It is important to remember that apps for children with autism alone cannot improve communication. A supporting environment that complements the application is crucial in this regard. The symbol system used in apps for children with autism has to be incorporated into the larger environment that the autistic child ultimately has to deal with. Collaboration with parents is another important aspect to ensure a consistent approach to basic word modeling outside of school. Parents are often reluctant to use apps for children with autism as a potential communication aid, hoping that language and communication skills will develop automatically over the years. There are around 250,000 words in the English language. Around 200 of these words make up 80% of our daily use.

A common concern among parents of autistic children is that their child may become too reliant on these apps to communicate. However, studies have revealed that both high-tech and low-tech apps for children with autism help stimulate speech. For many autistic children who will probably never speak due to language reproduction difficulties, these apps can become their voice. The use of synthesized, rather than digitized, speech has come a long way in recent years, allowing apps for children with autism to sound more natural and personal.

Many autistic children use associative thinking instead of linear. Strong image processing skills allow them to associate symbols with words. It helps them get a feel for the world around them, become proficient in the language, and allows them greater access to parts of the curriculum they couldn’t before. If there is a child who does not speak or speaks minimally in your classroom, apps for children with autism can help them learn communication skills.

But at the same time, it is important to remember that the user of an application cannot acquire communication skills overnight. It will take time for both the child and her communication partner to master the app. Be patient and with time and you will see the benefits.