I was recently introduced to this software that a few of my non-verbal kiddos have been using to help open the lines of communication. It's a form of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) that uses electronic picture exchange cards paired with speech so my kids can use both the visual and auditory aspects of language to help me understand their needs.
The program is available online at the App Store but has a $189 price tag. It's got a lot of really cool basic features, but you can also add in kid-specific categories/places/people/things using Shutterfly. We've added teacher's/therapists/family photos too! Another awesome perk is that it can be used on the ipad/phone/pod so kiddos who know how to use it can use it out in the community to help get their needs met.
In my experience, the most difficult part of the program is teaching my kids to use it--not in the user-friendly way, but in the basic use way. It's a cool gadget, fun to use, and offers the use of multiple intelligences--all bonuses!
