Every day at the KCC we are hearing more and more about the usefulness of iPads, iPod touch and iPhone applications (apps) for kids with special needs. We have been approached by many parents for a comprehensive list of special needs apps. Although it may be impossible to list every app available, the following resources are a great first step in finding technology that may be helpful for your child.

Please note: the KCC is not responsible for the accuracy of the listings, or the functionality of the apps on your particular system. Please read and follow all accompanying material. As always, exercise caution when downloading any new apps and insure that they are from a trusted publisher. Also note that although many of these listings are geared toward iPads, iPhones, and iPod touch systems, you may be able to find similar apps for Android and other phones.

Barbara Welsford, M.Ed., ATP, an assistive technology specialist, has compiled a excellent list of apps for children on the autism spectrum. The downloadable PDF includes apps in several categories including social goals, communication, behavior, sensory issues and much more. The friendly format includes each app’s icon and price.

►Visit the iPod Touch Project

One Place for Special Needs

Compiled by a parent of a child with special needs, this resource breaks down the best apps by skill set so you can easily find and buy apps that most benefit your child. Great for kids with autism, ADHD, apraxia, learning disability, sensory issues and more. Included are apps for iPad, iPhone, iPod touch and some Android devices.

►Visit the Guide to Educational and Special Needs Apps

Friendship Circle Series

The Friendship Circle has been running a special needs iPad & app series on their blog. The series attempts to provide guidance and resources that will make it easier for those looking for more information about new apps and their usefulness in special education.

►Visit the Special Needs iPad & App Series

Special Education at the App Store

Apple recently opened a special section of their App Store to showcase learning and communication tools for students with special needs. The section of the App Store, titled “Special Education: Learning for Everyone” features categories such as Sign Language Development, Communication, Emotional Development, Literacy  & Learning, and more.

►Visit Special Education: Learning for Everyone at the App Store

Apps for Children With Special Needs

Lots of apps listed, along with reviews and videos to demonstrate how the apps really work. Videos are produced from the user’s point of view so perspective users and purchasers can see and understand how each particular app could help them.

►Visit the A4cwsn App List

Parent Suggestions

The following are a few apps recommended by KCC parents. If there’s an app that has helped your child, please share it with other parents by sending information to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it at the KCC.

• ABC Phonics Word Families - Helps teach kids learn to read by using word families (as known as analogy phonics) by finding commonality (i.e. short a sounds or long e sounds) among a set of words.
• Audio Baby Talking Learning Pad Game - Four games in one: letters, numbers, colors and animals.
• Bubble wrap - The original bubble popping app.
• Giraffe's Matching Zoo - A vibrant and exciting mind development game designed for children, but fun for all ages.
• Giraffe's Preschool Playground - Join Giraffe on a colorful, musical, and educational journey to learn ABCs, 123s, animals, explore music, and more.
• iPhonics - Brush up your phonics skills up with this super intriguing and educational game. An excellent and interactive learning tool for anyone who is learning English.
• KidCalc 7-in-1 Math Fun - Teaches number recognition, counting and math to pre-schoolers, kindergarteners and elementary school aged children using flash cards and puzzle games, with engaging artwork, animation and voice-overs.
• Learn Sight Words - Over 300 sight words flashcards based on the popular Dolch Word List.
• Pocket Phonics - Teaches the basics of reading and writing to young kids. Letter sounds, letter writing and 170 first words.
• Signing Time - Uses flashcards and short video clips to teach basic ASL vocabulary
• Speak It! - A text to speech app.
• Tap to Talk - A text to speech app, also available for the Ninetendo DS.
• Teach Me Kindergarten - Teaches four different age appropriate subjects to Kindergarten aged children: sight words, addition, subtraction and spelling.
• Toddler Teasers Letters and Toddler Teasers Shapes - With a focus on simplicity and full voice overs, toddlers play and learn without the need for extra help. The app displays colorful quizzes and offers positive reinforcement and fun rewards.
• Tozzle - Puzzle app keeps your toddler entertained and he/she learns to improve shape recognition and motor activity.
• Voice4u - Helps individuals to express their feeling, thought, actions and things they need.
• Weet Woo - Thousands of parent-screened videos organized in kid-friendly age-appropriate playlists for hundreds of hours of entertainment.
• Whizzit Words - What's missing in the picture? Kids spell words (on their own or with built-in help) and the missing items magically appear.