Assistive Technology

Assistive technology includes devices and services that help increase, maintain, or improve a child's functional abilities and support the outcomes in their Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP).

Assistive Technology Services

An assistive technology service directly helps a child with a disability select, get, or use an assistive technology device.

Assistive technology services may include:

• Evaluating a child's needs in their everyday environment.
• Purchasing, leasing, or otherwise obtaining an assistive technology device.
• Selecting, designing, fitting, customizing, adapting, maintaining, repairing, or replacing an assistive technology device.
• Coordinating the use of an assistive technology device with other therapies, interventions, or services.
• Training or technical assistance for the child and family.
• Training or technical assistance for professionals and others who support the child.

Assistive technology services are provided by qualified professionals in accordance with New York State Early Intervention Program regulations.

Assistive Technology Devices

An assistive technology device is any item, piece of equipment, or product system, whether purchased off the shelf, modified, or customized, that is used to increase, maintain, or improve the functional abilities of a child with a disability.

An assistive technology device does not include a medical device that is surgically implanted, including a cochlear implant, or the optimization, maintenance, or replacement of that device.

Assistive technology can help children participate more fully in everyday routines and activities at home and in the community. It can also help families support their child's development. Depending on a child's needs, assistive technology services may include installing or adapting equipment, helping a child learn to use a device, and teaching parents, caregivers, and child care providers how to use it.

Learn More

For more information about assistive technology in the New York State Early Intervention Program, see:

• Assistive Technology Guidance (2019)
  Current guidance on the selection and use of assistive technology devices and services for children in the Early Intervention Program.
  https://www.health.ny.gov/guidance/oph/cch/bei/at_guidance.pdf
• Early Intervention Memorandum 99-1
  Guidance on the appropriate selection and use of assistive technology devices and services for children eligible for the Early Intervention Program.
  https://www.health.ny.gov/guidance/oph/cch/bei/99-1.pdf