Watch 'n Learn vs Smart Directions

Watch and Learn is a tool to teach children with autism and/or a language delay of all levels to pick up and learn new words from their natural environment. This app has been developed by Caroline Peters, Msc. (ABA), BCBA and recreates the situation in which typical children learn new words from their environment. Children love learning new words with this app, in which they will see people interact with each other. Children who did the Watch and Learn exercises: -loved to watch their family members interact with each other -loved to do the exercises and asked for more exercises -improved their ability to understand and pick up words uttered by their parents and/or siblings in the videos -picked up new words from their environment more easily -learned to be attentive for longer periods of time to what people are saying We advise parents to attend a one-day workshop given by Caroline Peters, BCBA or her colleagues.  Please check our website www.aba-instituut.nl for upcoming workshops. Learning words can be fun!

Designed by a speech-language pathologist, Smart Directions is a fun and easy-to-use application created to support children with difficulties in both oral and written comprehension. During the game, children follow directions using illustrated game boards, each based on themed categories. Directions can be presented in writing or spoken using text-to-speech, depending on the child’s needs. Eight types of directions are included in the app: • Short, simple directions using the same action word • Short, simple directions using varied action words • Long directions using the same action word • Long directions using varied action words • Short, inference-based directions • Long, complex or inference-based directions • Two-step directions with temporal or sequential elements • Inference-based directions with temporal or sequential elements The eight game boards are paired with combinations of directions that increase in difficulty, allowing for comprehension goals to be worked on progressively. A brief reinforcement game pleasantly concludes each work session. Additionally, an integrated editor allows custom direction lists to be created. Available on iPad.