iPad malfunctions not impacting my child's healthy screen usage habits

In a world where technology and special needs intertwine, 13-year-old Juliana, living with Angelman Syndrome, embarks on a unique journey of exploration and development using her iPad.

Juliana's proficiency with her iPad has been a remarkable progression, starting from simple beat-and-swipe interactions to the current stage of selecting choices. However, this proficiency has not come without its challenges. Issues such as unlocking the device and adjusting its settings have arisen due to her relentless curiosity.

Her iPad use has led to some unexpected situations, like accidentally toggling into her parent's Netflix account and upgrading the plan. Despite these inconveniences, the benefits of her communication skills development far outweigh these minor hiccups.

The guided access feature on Juliana's iPad helps manage her exploration, but sometimes leaves small choices available. This has led to her frequent discovery of hidden apps like Find My, Compass, and Garage Band. In one instance, her exploration even unveiled random files with odd "words" typed into them, which were traced back to her.

Juliana's iPad use is not just about entertainment. It serves as a tool for her fine motor skills development, muscle memory, and pointing abilities. Her volume control practice on her iPad is particularly beneficial for her talker, an augmentative and alternative communication device she uses for communication.

Muscle memory is crucial for Juliana's use of her new app on her talker. She is still working on using her pointer finger effectively for her talker, but her determination is evident.

Juliana's iPad journey began when she was just 3 years old, introduced to her by her early intervention speech therapist. The therapist saw the potential in using an iPad for Juliana's development and communication skills.

It's important to note that this article is a news and information piece about Angelman Syndrome and Juliana's use of technology, and not a source of medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Inconvenient moments of Juliana adjusting her iPad's settings are tolerated due to their contribution to her communication skills. Her progress, from beating to swiping, and now selecting choices, is a testament to the power of technology in helping individuals like Juliana navigate the world and express themselves.

As Juliana continues to practice on her talker, aiming for mastery, her journey serves as an inspiration for the potential of technology in enhancing the lives of those with special needs.