Organization, planning and time management are all necessary skills a student needs to be successful in education. Questions such as… does the student arrive on time and ready to learn, or does the student arrive with the materials needed for class? These are questions that can help you determine what type of assistive technology to try. 

There are a variety of timers such as wrist watches, hour glass timers, and visual timers that show how much time is left to complete an activity. Timers can also help the student transition from task-to-task by mentally preparing him to make the switch. 

Reading guides are good tools for kids who have trouble with visual tracking or who need help staying focused on the page. These are sometimes plastic strips and they highlight one line of text while blocking out surrounding words that might be distracting. The strip is also easy to move down the page as your child reads. 

An inflatable seat cushion or a cushion with vibration can help kids with sensory, processing and attention issues. The cushion can provide enough movement and stimulation to help a child maximize his focus without having to get up and walk around. 

Frequency modulation or FM systems can reduce background noise in the classroom and amplify what the teacher says. This can help with auditory processing issues as well as attention issues. The teacher wears a microphone that broadcasts either to speakers around the room or to a personal receiver worn by the student. 

Graphic organizers can be low-tech. There are many different designs you can print out that can help your child organize his thoughts for a writing assignment. There are also more sophisticated tools such as organizing programs that can help her map out her thoughts. Apps on a tablet or smartphone can be helpful and are geared toward various ages. Text minders, visual schedule planners and apps, such as “Remember the Milk.” are helpful.