Obtaining an iPad

By: Carmen Willings
teachingvisuallyimpaired.com
Updated May 27, 2024
Obtaining an iPad for a student who is blind or has low vision can significantly enhance their educational experience and access to assistive technology. Here are several avenues families can explore to obtain an iPad for their child:
 
  • Insurance Coverage: Families can inquire with their insurance company about coverage for iPads as durable medical equipment. Although insurance companies may be reluctant to approve such requests, providing detailed information about the educational and communication needs of the student, as well as the specific features and apps that would benefit them, may increase the chances of approval.
  • Charitable Organizations: Local charities, such as Lion's Club or other community organizations, may provide grants or assistance to families in need. These organizations often have programs dedicated to helping children with disabilities and may be willing to provide funding specifically for iPads.
  • Grants: There are numerous programs and organizations that offer grants to students with special needs. Families can research and apply for grants from organizations like:
    • The Conover Mobile Technology
    • Danny’s Wish
    • Little Bear Gives
    • Different Needz Foundation
    • First Hand Foundation
    • The Lindsay Foundation
    • Small Steps in Speech
  • School Provision: If the iPad is necessary for the student to access the curriculum, the school district may provide one. The school team, including the Teacher of Students with Visual Impairments, will assess the student's needs and determine if an iPad is the best solution. If provided by the school, the iPad will be school property.
  • Assistive Technology Evaluation: An Assistive Technology evaluation should be conducted by a qualified professional, such as the Teacher of Students with Visual Impairments or another expert familiar with the student's disability and the use of iPads. The evaluation will help determine if an iPad is the most appropriate assistive device for the student's needs.
 
By exploring these options, families can work towards obtaining an iPad for their child with visual impairments, ensuring access to technology that supports their educational and communication goals.

ECC Instruction

Teaching Strategies
Compensatory Skills
Concept Development
Alternative Communication
Emergent Literacy
​Access Print
​Access Environmental Print
Pre-Braille 
Braille Code
​​Braille Formatting
​Braillewriter​​Slate & Stylus​​Tactile Graphics​Nemeth Code​Access Classes​Abacus ​Organize​​Study Skills​Time Management​​​​Listening Skills
Assistive Technology
Social Skills
Self Determination
Self Determination Skills
Sensory Efficiency
Sensory Input
​​​Sensory Areas & Rooms​​​Auditory ReadinessVisual Efficiency Skills​Optical Device Instruction​Tactual Efficiency​Tactile Readiness ​
Independent Living
Personal Care
Hygiene & GroomingPersonal HealthHousehold Skills
Shopping & Consumerism
  • Shopping
  • Grocery Stores
  • Grocery Shopping
  • Expiration Dates
Eating & Table MannersClothing IdentificationTelephone
  • Telephone Use
Food PreparationMoney & Budget
  • ​Money & Budget
  • Money Management
  • Receipts​
  • Payment Methods
  • Buying or Packing Lunch
  • Personal Belongings
  • Paying with Checks
  • Interpret a Warranty
  • School Fundraisers
  • Housing Decisions
  • Paying Bills
  • Vending Machine Purchase
Service Agencies
  • Service Agencies
​Safety
  • General Home Safety
  • Emergencies
  • Evacuations
  • Seeking Shelter
  • Accidents & First Aid
  • Internet Safety
  • Safety
  • Using Locks
Orientation & Mobility
Recreation & Leisure
Career & Vocational
Job AwarenessMaintain Job
  • Address Employer Concerns
  • Maintain Employment
  • Following School Rules
  • Work Related Skills
  • Assuming Responsibilities