Does my child need assistive technology?

Assistive technology can be anything from a simple app to specialized equipment that helps your child access learning.

July 5, 2026

This article explains federal special education law (IDEA). Your state may have its own deadlines, forms, and complaint rules. Check your school's procedural safeguards notice for state-specific details.

Quick answer

Assistive technology, or AT, includes devices and services that help a child with a disability benefit from special education. It can range from low-tech supports like graphic organizers to high-tech tools like speech-to-text software or communication devices. The IEP team must consider AT during IEP development and provide it when needed.

What this means for parents

AT is often underused because teams skip the consideration step or treat tools as optional.

The team must consider whether AT is needed for the child to make progress, even if no formal AT evaluation has been done.
AT services include evaluation, device selection, training for staff and family, and maintenance.
A tool used successfully in general education may still need to be written into the IEP for consistency.
School-owned devices may stay at school unless the IEP requires home use for FAPE.
Denial of needed AT can limit access to curriculum, communication, and independence.

Questions to ask about assistive technology

Bring examples of tools that help your child at home or in trial use.

Has the team considered AT for [reading, writing, communication, organization]?
Is an AT evaluation needed, and who can conduct it?
What device or software is proposed, and who will train teachers and my child?
Will my child use AT in class, on tests, and for homework if needed?
What happens if the device breaks or the district changes platforms?

Simple parent script

Request AT consideration

I want the IEP team to consider assistive technology for my child, especially for [task]. Please document AT consideration and, if needed, evaluate whether tools such as [examples] are required for my child to benefit from special education.

When AT is denied

The team says my child does not need assistive technology, but [describe barrier]. Please explain the data supporting that decision or add the AT tools and training needed for access to instruction and communication.

Common mistakes to avoid

Assuming AT means only expensive devices.
Not asking for training, so the tool sits unused.
Letting the school say the child must first fail without supports.
Forgetting to include AT in testing and homework plans.
Buying home tools without asking the school to integrate them into the IEP.

When to get more help

Consider getting help when the school refuses AT consideration, will not support a communication device or literacy tool evaluation data shows is needed, or you need help connecting AT to accommodations and services.

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Sources

34 C.F.R. § 300.320, Definition of individualized education program (34 C.F.R. § 300.320)
34 C.F.R. § 300.324, Development, review, and revision of IEP (34 C.F.R. § 300.324)