Boardmaker

Since I have mentioned Boardmaker on several other posts I wanted to elaborate on it a bit. Boardmaker is software that is used by people with disabilities to communicate, for visual schedules, and to assist with learning.

Boardmaker software from Mayer-Johnson can be used in several ways. You can print out picture cards with it to use for communication. We have used these picture cards in A17's lapbooks too. It can also be used with Boardmaker add-ons to make books, all types of schedules, worksheets, etc. Boardmaker pictures can be used to make interactive books and games. These pictures are often used in PECS ( Picture Exchange Communication System ) too.

Boardmaker offers other software such as Boardmaker Plus and Boardmaker Speaking Dynamically Pro. These are used on the computer for intereactive learning games or on speech devices such as Dynavox.

A Meaningful Day

After a lot of thought I decided to start a blog to showcase all the work we've been doing this year. A16 is at home for school this year and doing very well. The title of this blog, A Meaningful Day refers to a new buzzword in the disabilities community. It refers to a type of program for people with disabilites who for whatever reason are not in supported employment or workshops. Instead they have chosen to develop their own program based on their interests--to create a meaningful day for themselves. This type of program is very individulized. It can include activities like community outings, volunteering, arts and crafts programs, shopping, movies, and learning about new things of interest. It can take place in the individual's home or in a community setting. This type of program is usually implemented after high school. However, A16 and I thought now would be a good time to start.

I hope to use this blog to showcase A16's schoolwork, including lapbooks, and show how we are creating a meaningful day program.