Apps to support children with autism spectrum disorder.
Autism spectrum disorder is a group of conditions where a person has delay or difficulty in thinking and social development, which includes play and communication (language). There are a wide selection of apps aimed at supporting parents and caregivers of children with autism spectrum disorder. Apps have the potential to help children to communicate and express themselves, manage time and routines, better identify and regulate emotions and interact with others. However, many apps are untested and might not help. It’s best to work with your child’s professionals to choose the right apps for your child.
On this page you will find information on:
Deciding on suitable apps — help me choose
A study by Boyd et al looked into the contexts in which learning via apps might be beneficial for children with autism spectrum disorder and the design features for apps to promote learning.2 They identified 5 evaluation criteria to guide teachers and caregivers in evaluating iPad apps for their efficacy in helping improve a child’s communication skills. These criteria are:
- the ability to customize the app
- the motor skills the student needs to operate the system
- the resources and time needed for the intervention
- the research or evidence-based practices behind the app
- the cost of using the specific device and app.
Recommended apps
As there are so many apps for children with autism spectrum disorder, we have not been able to review all those available. We have instead identified independent organisations that have reviewed these apps. The following are lists of apps recommended by independent organisations.
| Organisation | List of apps |
| Brisbane Early Stages (B.E.S.T) Autism Therapy
(Australia) |
The Learning App Guide to Autism and Education
|
| Bridging Apps (United States) |
Bridging the gap between technology and people with disabilities
|
| Autism Speaks (United States) |
Technology and Autism |
| Raising Children (Australia) |
|
| Autism Association of Western Australia (Australia) |
|
| Common Sense Education (United States) |
|
| Reading Rockets (United States) |
Apps for children with autism and Asperger's
|
| Center on Technology and Disability (United States) |
AT support for autism - app matrix
|
References
- Allen ML, Hartley C, Cain K. iPads and the Use of "Apps" by Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: Do They Promote Learning? Front Psychol. 2016 Aug 30;7:1305.
- Boyd TK, Hart Barnett JE, More CM. Evaluating iPad Technology for Enhancing Communication Skills of Children With Autism Spectrum Disorders.
Disclaimer: Health Navigator’s app library is a free consumer service to help you decide whether a health app would be suitable for you. Our review process is independent. We have no relationship with the app developers or companies and no responsibility for the service they provide. This means that if you have an issue with one of the apps we have reviewed, you will need to contact the app developer or company directly.