Have you visited Bridging Apps website? Formerly SNApps4Kids, this website offers an Insigneo – Search engine specifically for special needs app – its like a Specialneedspedia for apps.

Sponsored by Easter Seals of Greater Houston, Bridging Apps provides multiple methods of searching for apps. You can search by user:

It’s Insigneo search engine provides numerous choices of searching within app categories:

Apps are rated and provide a link to iTunes for purchase. Android app search is also included in the categories.

Bridging Apps website also offers more such as information on programs it offers. Getting Started: iPads for Special Needs is a handbook they have published. Here is a description of their handbook from their website:

“This handbook addresses not only why you should consider an iPad for your special needs user, but also which one to buy, the accessories that may be necessary for a special needs user – case, stylus, keyboards, switch access, Braille interfaces, wheelchair mounting and more – all with a particular focus on the special needs user. This book will also guide you through goal setting, basic and advanced set up options, finding apps and encouraging your user to interact with the iPad.”

Bridging Apps is a valuable resource when searching for apps for special needs. As an OT this website also offers equipment recommendations as well as apps making it another resource to locate tools for students or clients. This is definitely worth bookmarking in your browser or adding this to your iPad home screen for easy access.

This will definitely be a resource for my OT iTool Kit!

Carol