Guide to Other Chapters:  
Table of Contents
Introduction
1: What Is Duchenne MD?
2: Getting the Diagnosis
3: Sorting Out The White Coats
4: Your Child's Physical Needs
5: The Future—Research Points the Way
6: Your Child's Emotional Needs
7: Your Child's Education and Future
8: The Family
9: When You Need Help
10: Saying Good-Bye

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Chapter 7:Your Child's Education and Future
In Chapter 7:
photo: classroom scene
The Individualized Education Plan (IEP) | Adjustment to School | Learning Disabilities |
Assistive Technology | College | The Future | MDA HELPS: Telethon |
Resources for this chapter | General MDA Resources 

ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY

photo: girl uses computer
Many computers have special features for people with physical disabilities.

One of the most exciting outcomes of the ongoing technological revolution is the range of new opportunities for people with disabilities. We're seeing better, more versatile and easier-to-operate wheelchairs and other mobility devices.

There's also a world of computers to help people with limited mobility write, learn and communicate. From using the Internet for research, to playing computer games alone or with other children, boys with DMD have an expanse of knowledge at their fingertips.

As the child gets older, adaptive software and hardware will prove increasingly helpful. High school and college students can use computers with the help of alternate keyboards, voice-input systems, adapted joysticks, word prediction programs, electronic pointing devices and other adaptations. All of these devices minimize or eliminate necessary keystrokes, making it possible for people with little or no use of their hands and arms to operate a computer. Occupational therapists can help students learn how to use this equipment.

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