iPad app continues to help children with Autism to communicate

Feb. 27, 2011 - PRLog -- Expressive, the iPad and iPhone app that has helped many children with Autism to communicate, has released another major update on February 26, 2011. This update further solidifies Expressive as a simple yet powerful communication device. Expressive works by building storyboards of images which are organized in categories. Children with language delays, cognitive impairment and autism have shown significant improvement in their language skills by the use of a picture exchange communication device. Many times, parents are faced with not only expensive prices for picture exchange devices but also difficult to use applications or devices. Expressive brings to the table two key and important solutions for parents and educators: intuitive design and affordability. Expressive contains a preset library of over 400 words and images with two voices: male or female. Previous updates allowed users to add their own images, words and voice.  

Version 1.2 brings the following new features and enhancements:
•   Improved response time
•   Improved Graphics
•   Categories are now color coordinated for visual learners

Expressive has continued to receive recognition and positive reviews primarily for being one of the easiest AAC apps to set up. A sample of the reviews on iTunes quickly point out these strengths that have kept it at a consistent 4 star average:  

“This is a very user friendly AAC app for anyone! Great voices, graphics and performance! The update really helped in many ways” writes AAC girl February 26 reviewing the current update
“This is a very good basic entry level AAC app. It is inexpensive and easy to use” writes LSHteacher
“The app is responsive, even on older devices, and works well.  So if you are in the market for a mid-level communication device/app this is might be a good option for you.” Writes Patrick on iEar.org and at Teaching All Students Blog.

As Expressive continues to help more and more people and make significant impacts in real people’s lives, there has been a consistent buzz around the Internet about the app that is revolutionizing the entry level to mid level AAC devices. People who once felt they had to have a doctorate in computer engineering   to understand how to program an alternative communication device can now breathe knowing there is finally a simple alternative in Expressive.  At just $34 Expressive is a bargain compared to the  traditional AAC devices that run anywhere from  $2500-$8000, and a better a better fit for a student who need an AAC device but that isn’t at the level to be able to make full use of a traditional device or an AAC more advanced apps on iTunes.

The slick design on Expressive in combination with the already amazing design of the iPad gives many students who were once stigmatized by the use of a dedicated device, a status of “cool”. Given its colorful organization, the interface on the Expressive 1.2 is very attractive and appealing to children with Autism.

Expressive was featured on the "Autism Hangout" Podcast and the “TUAW.COM” and on GeekSLP TV#12 as an app that is helping students with special needs to communicate and learn. “It’s not about which app has the most features, it’s about which app best fits the needs of the student” says Barbara Fernandes, a speech and language pathologist and developer of Expressive in her blog “expressive brings simplicity, intuition and easy customization, features lacking in many apps”

Educators, parents and children alike love the “cool” factor of an iPad, iPhone or iPod Touch with Expressive and how it gives individuals the ability to that many of us take for granted: a voice to “express” one’s self.

“Expressive is a must have app if you have or work with a child with special needs who struggles with communication. I am using this app in teaching young children with autism…” writes Mr. Brown (techie teacher).

As school districts continue to recognize the revolution in education generated by the iPad, many children with special needs will continue to benefit from the use of apps such as Expressive that deliver all we have been waiting for so long: affordability, ease of use and key features.

If you wish to download Expressive visit the iTunes Store: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/expressive/id398345416?mt=8

For more information on Expressive visit Smarty Ears' website : http://www.smartyearsapps.com

Expressive is compatible with the iPhone, iPod touch and the iPad.

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Smarty Ears was founded in december of 2008 by Barbara Fernandes, a speech and language pathologist certified by the American Speech and Hearing Association. Smarty Ears has created over 15 applications for children with speech and language delays and disorders such as Stuttering, articulation delays, autism, down syndrome, and language disorders. Our goal is to provide the best tools that engage every children to learn, develop appropriate communication skills and become better communicators.
At Smarty Ears we believe technology can help parents and speech therapists improve the communication skills of children with speech and language difficulties. Smarty Ears brought to the world a whole new concept of how children will practice their skills. Speech Therapists many times use materials that are not current with what children experience at home. Technology is everywhere, how can we expect children to engage in worksheets and paper flashcards.