First Steps Listserv

Subject: Assistive Technology/Adaptive Equipment

Source: Debby Parsons, Coordinator, Special Education Services

Decisions as to whether a child needs an assistive technology device are sometimes difficult. However, it is important to always keep in mind the basics:

1. The Individualized Family Services Plan (IFSP) team determines whether a child needs assistive technology. While input from evaluators and providers can be helpful to consider, that input is not determinative. A provider's list of items is to be treated as a recommendation, not a mandate to the team.

2. Typical infant care equipment is generally not considered a necessary assistive technology device since the child would require it regardless of whether he or she is receiving early intervention services.

3. It would be extremely rare for post surgical corrective devices to be considered as necessary AT devices since the child would require these items as a result of surgery regardless of whether he or she is receiving early intervention services.

4. When early intervention services are provided in the home, there is no expectation that a "clinic" environment be created there. While the provision of services in the natural environment should be the first consideration, if the child needs specialized services or equipment that are typically provided in a clinic, then services may be provided in that environment.

5. Identification of an assistive technology device in an IFSP does not require the identification of a more expensive device, when a lesser expensive one is available and can achieve the IFSP outcome. IFSP teams have the responsibility to explore all options that can work to reach the desired outcome. The ETC program contains equipment appropriate for infants and toddlers with disabilities. Equipment is available for device trials and loan. More information can be found at: http://etc.rockhurst.edu/

6. In general, therapists are expected to maintain some basic level of equipment that is necessary to provide therapy. IFSP teams should question identifying such basic therapy equipment as an assistive technology device.

7. Federal regulations require that assistive technology devices purchased with First Steps federal funds remain the property of the First Steps system, not the property of the child and family.

For guidance purposes, the following are examples (and in no way represents an exhaustive list) of items generally not considered assistive technology devices:

wheelchairs
hearing aids
cochlear implants
suctioning pumps
prosthetic devices

For guidance purposes, the following are examples (and in no way represents an exhaustive list) of items generally viewed as assistive technology devices:

weighted vests
switches and adapters for toys
trunk vest support
speech communication devices