Spinoff to non-verbal...anybody use/try PODD

It stands for Pragmatic Organization Dynamic Display. It is an alternative method of communication that uses pictures, and supposedly makes sense, and is very easy to learn. My friend's son, upon using it for just a few days, used the pictures in the system to "say" to her "go...drive...playground". This was after 2 unsuccessful years of using various programs on the iPad.

There is a training program in Connecticut in Sept that I'm seriously considering attending.

Anybody else interested?

Re: Spinoff to non-verbal...anybody use/try PODD

I would be interested in learning more about this. My DS just turned 2 but is non verbal. He also does not point.

Re: Spinoff to non-verbal...anybody use/try PODD

I am not aware of it. We use PECs concept so far. It is somehow working for basic needs communication. But expressing feelings, etc...too hard for DS.

Re: Spinoff to non-verbal...anybody use/try PODD

Here is the link for the conference. Almost nobody I have spoken to has ever heard of this, including speech therapists. But it really is changing the game for many people who are non-verbal. I know many, many kids in the circle of my DD's disability who are finally able to express themselves using this method. I plan on going to the seminar because I just know that my DD has a lot to say, and we haven't figured out how to get it out of her yet.

PODD seminar

Spinoff to non-verbal...anybody use/try PODD

It looks like pecs though. Picture Exchange Communication System. We use the picture concept. Actual picture. DS foes not understand illustrations of actual objects. He is waiting for an Eval for an augmentive communication device.

Re: Spinoff to non-verbal...anybody use/try PODD

Re: Spinoff to non-verbal...anybody use/try PODD

My DD too is awaiting an AAC eval.

Re: Spinoff to non-verbal...anybody use/try PODD

I think in this day and age, augmentative communication should rely heavily on technology. The amount of apps out there now are countless. Finding the right therapist who has been trained in using augmentative communication is key. It's so easy to carry around a device and get your message across to strangers then it would be to use any type of 'cards'. The motor planning involved with using a device is also very important because it can help induce verbal communication. It also gives immediate auditory feedback to the user, which is important for self checking of communication. How often do we say something and then after we 'hear' it we think, .."that's not what I meant, let me say it again". If you have followed Carly Fleishman's story it's so remarkable.

In addition when you go for a Assistive Tech Eval, make sure it is done with both a SLP for 'communication and an OT if "motor planning" and fine motor issues are a concern. Part of the evaluation recommendations come particular apps and 'training" for the teachers, and parents should be trained as well. There also should be a trained therapist available for the maintenance of the app (programming it etc)My daughter needs a lot of assistance with fine motor, so she is not held back from building sentences/writing assignments and solving math problems because her physical ability is less developed. Many children thrive with a device because it is multisensory and it's quite motivating.

Attending a workshop in a method could be very helpful however, you have to consider that the teachers and therapists may not ever get that training..

Re: Spinoff to non-verbal...anybody use/try PODD

Re: Spinoff to non-verbal...anybody use/try PODD

Remember a 'stylus" is a very important part of the IPAD if 'fine motor' is an issue. There are all types of styluses

Spinoff to non-verbal...anybody use/try PODD

I have had to fight for 2 years to get an "Eval" for an augmentive communication device. We are still waiting for Eval. It is a nightmare to get it. The kids are tested. To see if they are "ready" for it. It is insane. I have told the SD it is time to move to new technology. They refused to give him an iPad. He was too ."young". He is 7 yo. He is not talking. How long does he have to be held back, right?

Re: Spinoff to non-verbal...anybody use/try PODD

Put all requests in writing and just submit. Don't "ask" in person, 'schools' will tell parents a whole bunch of excuses to avoid these 'costly' evaluations.

The BOCES evals take FOREVER. We put in for an ATE in March and it wasn't until June that the eval was actually given.

I even believe they can administer the eval for CPSE. I have even heard of EI paying for proloquo etc.

Dana Nieder has a great blog centering around AAC. http://niederfamily.blogspot.com/

ETA
Federal law requires local school districts to consider AT for all children who have a disability. Because schools provide assessments and education-related AT devices and services for children from ages 3 to 21 years, the school district is the first entity to contact. Finding and funding devices or services may ultimately involve a number of agencies and organizations. AT assessments for children whose AT needs are related to medical factors can be funded through private insurance, Medicaid, Children’s Rehabilitative Services, or agencies which serve people with specific disabilities.

Message edited 9/9/2014 2:41:17 PM.

Re: Spinoff to non-verbal...anybody use/try PODD

I had the eval written into DD's IEP. Do you have that?