Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Resources
Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) is defined as the use of other methods to replace or support verbal communication.
Phone/iPad Apps and Resources for Autism
Listing of Apps with links to reviews (pdf)
Links to lots of other sites, including grant resources compiled by a parent, an adult with autism, and a speech language pathologist.
iPhone/iPad apps for Augmentative and Alternative Communication (ACC)
With so many AAC apps available through the App Store, the Spectronics Consultancy Team would like to provide you with some tips and tools to help you find the right app.
Resources – Apps, Funding, Insurance, Training and Grants
iTaalk educates on the beneficial uses of assistive technology and includes specific advice about trying to get insurance to cover iPads.
Utilizing Mobile Technology for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder – Verizon Wireless has information and a list of apps for children with autism.
iPad Funding
MassHealth Coverage of AAC Non-Dedicated Device New Prior Authorization Process (pdf)
The Autism Omnibus Bill enacted in August, 2014 includes language requiring MassHealth to fund dedicated and non-dedicated augmentative and alternative communication devices, including, but not limited to medically necessary tablets. Guidelines are included.
Funding For iPads from Autism Society
Courtesy of the Autism Society’s contact center, Autism Source, the list below includes organizations that offer grants and other assistance for children with autism:
The above programs are for children with autism and often with language delays.
Other individuals with autism and their parents may want to contact their state’s Assistive Technology program. You may find these by searching the Autism Society’s resource database. Once on the search page, choose your state and click on Assistive Technology; your state agency will come up.Assistive technology programs may have a borrowing program for the iPad. They also offers very low interest loans with reasonable payment plans for many devices and iPads may be covered.They also can search for an alternative device that serves the same purpose and may be covered through them.
If you have any questions, please call the AutismSource contact center, 800-3AUTISM or 800-328-8476 .
“5 Steps to Getting an iPad Covered by Insurance: A mom’s Story of Success”
Allison Keller iPad Program / Doug Flutie Foundation
Flutie Foundation will grant a limited number of iPads to schools and organizations for programs specifically serving individuals with autism that have an established technology program in place utilizing the iPad, or have expressed an interest in starting a program using the iPad. One school per public school district is eligible to be awarded an Allison Keller iPad grant annually. The application opened in December and closed on January 19th
Joey’s Fund Family Grant Program
The Flutie Foundation also offers the Joey’s Fund Family Grant Program which accepts grant applications from families in New England (Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Vermont, New Hampshire & Maine) that are in need of financial assistance for their family member(s) with autism. Families can apply for up to $3,000 through the program. Each year the Joey’s Fund application is available on their website in early February and is due by early March. Grant recipients will be notified in early to mid-April.
First Hand Foundation
First Hand accepts applications from anywhere in the world. If you or someone you know would like to apply for assistance on behalf of a child visit the website.
Fact Sheet last updated on: 1/26/2022
