Olivia is an adorable three-year-old girl with a huge smile and bright eyes attending our preschool where she receives physical, occupational and speech therapies. She has been diagnosed with cerebral palsy. She has generalized weakness and fluctuating tone in her extremities. She cannot sit, stand, or walk independently. Ability to use her hands for manipulation of toys and learning materials is limited.
Olivia tries hard to overcome her limitations and succeed at a given activity. She is always motivated to learn. Olivia recognizes all shapes, colors, letters, and numbers. She has been using an iPad to access educational programs that are age appropriate. While Olivia is unable to speak, she has been learning to use a touch screen communication device that has enabled her to express her wants and needs and to participate in school activities. She is very enthusiastic about being able to finally communicate with her friends and family. Technology the school is working on includes the iPad, the communication device, and possibly a power wheelchair in the future. These devices will give this lovely little girl the means to participate more fully in home, at school, and in social environments.
