Autism 5 -Point Scale EP is a free app for iPhone and iPad developed by the Autism Society of Minnesota. Ms. Van Dixhorn, EBD teacher at the Sheboygan Falls Middle   this app with me as an app to help with the programming of a student we mutually will work with. Not only free, but simple and easy to use for elementary  and older students who would benefit from a simple method of identifying emotions and feedback about how they feel and potentially what strategies they could use.

Here are some screen shots of the app:

I had the opportunity to set up the 5 point scale app with a student  today on an iPod Touch. It took about 15 minutes for us to review the app, revise it with personalized text and audio recordings.  We kept the pictures the same, although the option of inserting your own picture, emoticon or symbol is available. I decided to record  instruction in with my voice on points 2-5 as a directive from a teacher, while the student recording the 1st point with “I’m happy”. As the student becomes more independent in being able to apply those strategies recording her voice may be a good option.

This was an easy app to set up, and easy app for student to use. I am looking forward to trialing this and other self-regulation apps with the student on her dedicated iPod Touch to work on greater independence as we get ready for a new school year.

Autism 5- Point Scale app is appropriate for OT’s teachers, parents and specialists working with special needs students who would benefit from a visual communication to help them become aware of their emotions!

Would your students benefit from this in your OT iTool Kit?

Carol