http://www.checkthemap.org.uk Find any Learning Disability Service across the UK and Ireland http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/logo.jpg http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/ http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/software_and_hardware/inclusive.html We supply software for many different areas of Special Needs including early learning, communication, older learners, across all areas of the National Curriculum and for Dyslexia. In our hardware range you will find hundreds of different access devices: touch monitors, switches, keyboards, roller mice.. you name it. Inclusive have a specialist team of advisors on hand to give you more information, training and consultancy. ta5ae 2004-12-14 11:37:48 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/fun_sites/symbolworld.html Dedicated to the use of symbols, a wonderful site with tons of free symbol-supported stories, news, games, jokes ta5ae 2004-11-08 06:16:36 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/resources/parents_carers_and_professionals/dog_nightmare.html No publisher ta5ae 2004-11-08 11:57:14 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/resources/parents_carers_and_professionals/essential_difference.html No publisher ta5ae 2004-11-08 06:28:25 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/software_and_hardware/freebies.html Here you'll find downloads for Music Games, SEN Switcher, Talking Faces and a switch accessible CD Player. Excellent games, quick to download, for Windows PCs and Macs, and totally FREE!!!! ta5ae 2004-12-23 17:13:22 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/fun_sites/magicballs.html One of the many games you'll find on Trans-Active, a fantastic site supported by Mencap for teenagers with and without learning disabilities to work together. Fire different coloured balls to make rows of two or more. Play with the keyboard (space & arrow keys) or set up for a switch/ touch screen user. Nice sound effects, though the time runs out quickly. The Check The Map Team's best score is 6588. Let us know when you beat it! ta5ae 2006-01-11 14:36:02 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/charities/bigtree Multimedia and Learning Disability research project.The role of The Big Tree is to research and develop this exciting set of opportunities with the learning disability community. The Project has evolved into a unique research and development enterprise. ta5ae 2004-12-09 16:48:59 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/charities/Mencap Mencap is the UK's leading learning disability charity working with people with a learning disability and their families and carers. This huge site is packed full of valuable information. ta5ae 2004-12-09 16:45:38 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/charities/rixcentre The Rix Centre is an innovative new charity improving the lives of people with learning disabilities through the use of new media technologies. The Rix Centre is committed to developing teaching and learning, research and multimedia production for people in the learning disability community. ta5ae 2004-12-09 17:33:41 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/charities/homefarmtrust Our vision is to meet the hopes and needs of people with learning disabilities. To help us to achieve this, we offer a range of services including; supported living, registered residential care, day services, specialist services, supported employment, carer support service, transition workshops, advocacy, short breaks (respite care), Information Communications Technology (ICT) training and research. ta5ae 2004-12-09 18:32:25 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/learning_disability_information/directgov We're happy to help raise awareness of Directgov - a website that provides the public with a single point of online access to government services and information. The section for disabled people covers more than just benefits and disability rights - other topics include health, education, leisure and travel. The disability team working on Directgov want to ensure that the website delivers what people want. They have been in contact with Check The Map and invite you to visit: www.direct.gov.uk/disability You can email any comments to:directgov@dwp.gsi.gov.uk ta5ae 2004-12-16 11:15:03 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/charities/snapcharity Special Needs And Parents (SNAP) is a registered charity that supports Essex families who have children with any special need or disability. The children's disabilities are very wide-ranging including for example autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, sensory impairment, speech and language difficulties and learning disabilities. ta5ae 2004-12-10 10:43:26 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/charities/theautismperspective TAP, The Autism Perspective Magazine, was founded upon the passionate philosophy that those living with and treating autism spectrum disorders and pervasive development disorders should have a single resource that presents the full perspective of options for therapies, new understanding, treatments, and services. Our goal is to enrich and enhance the lives of those living with autism and give them new sources of hope. ta5ae 2004-12-11 09:29:28 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/software_and_hardware/senit Independent advice and ideas for the use of technology in Special Educational Needs. An unrivalled site for clear advice, tutorials, accessibility and lots of downloads. Always worth a visit. ta5ae 2004-12-11 09:47:16 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/learning_disability_information/mymgl This site contains lots of advice, reviews, resources and free training downloads, as well as links to many other specialist disability services. ta5ae 2004-12-11 16:00:37 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/software_and_hardware/iansyst iANSYST Ltd are specialist suppliers of computers and IT solutions for disabled people of all ages. We have our own range of made-to-order PCs, and can also supply Apple Macs and a selected range of Notebooks. By arrangement with the VAT Office, we are able to supply computers VAT-free to disabled customers ta5ae 2004-12-11 16:21:51 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/software_and_hardware/dyslexiccom Helping dyslexic people make the most of their abilities. We stock a wide range of software, gadgets, and other products for people with dyslexia, visual impairments and other disabilities. ta5ae 2004-12-11 16:55:02 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/commercial/gljonesplaygrounds Special Needs Playground equipment and rubber safety surfacing - Manufacturing, design and installation. "Every child deserves the right to play" ta5ae 2004-12-11 19:17:47 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/charities/booksfordisability Booktrust is the national charity which aims to bring books and people together. As an independent charity, Booktrust can offer thoroughly impartial advice on finding the right books for the right person. Booktrust offers a range of booklists, publications and resources for schools, organisations and individuals, as well as coordinating a range of book prizes and national projects such as Bookstart. ta5ae 2004-12-11 18:58:08 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/charities/assistit Assist I.T. works in partnership with learning, teaching, training providers and public access centres to provide the best practice in inclusive learning through the use of assistive and adaptive technology. ta5ae 2004-12-13 06:48:35 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/commercial/dickorydockdesigns Dickory Dock design and manufacture a wide range of fabric educational resources to a high standard for use in schools. All of our own products are made in Holmfirth, West Yorkshire. ta5ae 2004-12-13 14:22:57 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/commercial/paradigm We work with people with learning difficulties and their families, independent and statutory sector providers, Health Authorities and Social Service Departments, Housing Associations, Families, Regional and National Government in the UK and beyond. ta5ae 2004-12-14 04:44:50 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/charities/breakcharity BREAK is a registered charity that provides help for children, adults and familes with special needs - such as challenging behaviour or physical and learning disabilities. We provide respite care, specialist child care and UK holidays in Norfolk and the West Country. Our work also includes providing homes for children, family assessments and day care for adults with learning disabilities. ta5ae 2004-12-14 04:49:13 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/charities/scamp SCAMP are a Swindon-based charity who provide computers and computer-training for people with disabilities, in their own homes.SCAMP provides and installs the computer to the client's own home and then gives training in * Basic computer operation and simple word-processing * Logging onto the internet using our own dedicated servers (phone line required) * Sending and receiving e-mails. * Using the chat-room and other facilities on our web-site A wide variety of 'aids' are available if the client's disability means that a standard mouse, keyboard or display is not suitable ta5ae 2004-12-16 07:15:43 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/commercial/deafsign www.deafsign.com is a new site, that offers a whole new approach to bringing the Deaf and hearing worlds closer together. The site has benefited from examples in other countries, such as the USA and provides information, contacts and discussion on issues related to deafness and sign language. ta5ae 2004-12-23 13:49:40 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/commercial/arcess Accessible Single Switch Games and Switch Activities Arcess.com will soon be releasing new single switch games and activities for Mac and Windows. Until then members can still download our original single switch games - Alien Invasion, Ruby Ridge and Brickout. Designed for children and adults with disabilities, these games can be adjusted for players with a very wide range of abilities. ta5ae 2004-12-23 13:49:20 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/commercial/storytracks Storytracks is an organization which helps people of all abilities and ages to listen to stories and to start telling and sharing their own stories. We believe that storytelling is one of the most important experiences we can offer people with severe communication difficulties, and that everyone has the potential to be a storyteller. Storytrack workshops are designed for children and adults with severe communication difficulties, including: profound and multiple disabilities, learning disabilities, autistic spectrum disorders and specific language impairments. ta5ae 2004-12-23 14:04:39 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/charities/nas The National Autistic Society exists to champion the rights and interests of all people with autism and to ensure that they and their families receive quality services appropriate to their needs. This site includes information about autism and Asperger syndrome, and about support and services available in the UK. ta5ae 2004-12-23 14:15:55 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/fun_sites/horseharmony This is a bizarre and funny site, a horse quartet! Click on the horses to get them singing and click on them again to stop. Simple, great for practising early ICT skills and very entertaining. ta5ae 2004-12-23 15:44:54 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/fun_sites/hogafflahage From the Swedish TV Network that brought you Horse Harmony, this site is very funny, very addictive and great for practising mouse skills. This link takes you to the home page. Press START to enter, then mouse over the screen to find musical cartoon links to lots of other games. I guess it helps if you speak Swedish, but if like me you don't, it's all still pretty easy to work out. Tons of games, tons of fun. ta5ae 2004-12-23 15:43:52 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/learning_disability_information/foundationforlearningdisabilities The Foundation for People with Learning Disabilities, works with people and their families to ensure they can use effective services, play a fuller part in communities and society, and enjoy equal rights. We develop projects and services that can be copied across the UK. In all our work we want to ensure that people with learning disabilities are supported in living as active citizens in the community, with real choices. ta5ae 2004-12-23 16:45:01 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/software_and_hardware/switchedonlearning The Switched-On Learning project aims to provide quality multimedia learning objects and resources that can help students with disabilities learn and explore independently. This page gives links to lots more downloadable freebies, accessible sites and other software for simple, switch accessible games. Things you'll find here include Alien Invasion, Brickout and Ruby Ridge,Switch Activated Videos, Talking Books and Counting Songs. ta5ae 2004-12-23 17:24:23 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/software_and_hardware/oneswitch A resource of fun ideas, art and music and 'assistive technology', for and by moderate to severely learning/physically disabled people. Video games are fun and also give people the power to do amazing things that they would be unable to in real life. With the right specialised hardware, many standard video games can be played by anyone, no matter the disability. "One Switch Gaming" is especially interested in games playable with a single switch, and in campaigning for accessibility features in all games. There are a number of free downloadable arcade games here which are quite advanced in that they require either rapid button pushes or fairly accurate timing. All are switch accessible, naturally. ta5ae 2005-09-25 10:10:03 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/fun_sites/priorywoodskids Visit our award winning Kids Area. Symbol-supported online fun and creative activities. Here you'll find sections on 'colour and draw', 'story and rhymes', 'fun and games' and 'find out about' - created with the help of pupils at Priory Woods School in Middlesbrough, for the benefit of all visitors. ta5ae 2004-12-23 17:49:27 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/software_and_hardware/senteacher Resources, freeware downloads, links and documents for those involved in the education of pupils with learning difficulties, autism and other special educational needs. Some of the materials may also be of use to teachers and parents of primary aged children. All material here is free for educational use, but please do not add content to other sites, CDs etc without permission. ta5ae 2004-12-23 18:03:05 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/software_and_hardware/petewellssensorystories Pete Wells creates disgustingly wonderful sensory stories for use with the children of Portland School. This page contains free downloads to 'Norbert, the green nosed reindeer', 'Dozy Dwight on Bonfire Night', 'Sydney and the Bogeyman' and most recently, 'God's 6th Day Rejects' Enjoy. ta5ae 2005-02-13 11:39:06 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/software_and_hardware/naaceactivities There are a ton of free activities to be downloaded from this site and used in the primary classroom and for Special Needs. The current list of choices include Find the Pairs | Poem Maker | Jumbo | Number Board | Quiz Maker | Discloze | Discloze Editor | Big Books | Big Book Maker | Video Book Maker | Sir Henry Unton | Sorting Games | Whodunnit? | Greenfield Road | Owl Box | Random Number Generator | Team Draw | History Photo Quiz | Maths Treasure Trails | History Treasure Trails | Number Mystery | MFL | Lost Owls | Bounce | My World Screens ta5ae 2004-12-23 18:14:35 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/charities/1voice If you are a child, family or adult who uses a communication aid, a professional who works with alternative or augmentative communication (AAC), a valued supporter of 1 Voice, or just finding out more about AAC, you are welcome at this site. 1 Voice takes a family and social perspective on communication and recognises the great need for adult role models to inspire children and families alike. 1 Voice promotes families supporting each other to overcome the isolation that being unable to speak can bring. ta5ae 2004-12-23 18:21:37 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/charities/abilitynet AbilityNet provides a wide range of services to individuals, professionals in the field of disability, employers and the public sector. AbilityNet is the UK's leading charity bringing the benefits of computer technology to adults and children with disabilities. The team at AbilityNet can advise you on specialist assistive technology for any disability and also send you information-packed Factsheets and Skillsheets. ta5ae 2004-12-23 18:31:08 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/learning_disability_information/arc ARC is a membership organisation, which supports providers of services to people with a learning disability all over the UK. Member's services include daytime & leisure activities, support to people in their own homes, residential services, training for employment, special schools & colleges, staff training and information and advice. ta5ae 2005-01-04 07:58:50 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/charities/unitedresponse United Response supports people with learning difficulties and mental health problems to have the things they want and need in their lives. We are a national registered charity that works through local services. ta5ae 2005-01-10 13:11:26 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/charities/foundationforpeoplewithlearningdisabilities This is the biggest, most comprehensive website on learning disabilities/difficulties in the UK. The Foundation for People with Learning Disabilities, works with people and their families to ensure they can use effective services, play a fuller part in communities and society, and enjoy equal rights. We develop projects and services that can be copied across the UK. In all our work we want to ensure that people with learning disabilities are supported in living as active citizens in the community, with real choices. ta5ae 2005-01-10 18:06:44 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/learning_disability_information/scopeaaccurriculum Communication is a basic human right, a need and a critical part of learning. For some people communicating through speech is difficult, or slow to develop. Many people now use Alternative and Augmentative Communication (AAC) systems. These systems supplement or support the spoken element in communication. There are different vocabularies and languages to choose from, so the individual can use the most appropriate system. 'Supporting Communication through AAC' is available to download from this site. It gives a thorough guide to supporting AAC users in all walks of life. Invaluable. ta5ae 2005-01-15 16:39:44 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/charities/thechildrenstrust The Children's Trust, based at Tadworth in Surrey, is a registered charity providing special care for severely disabled children many of whom have particularly complex health needs. We offer a unique combination of skills and experience in meeting all the complex needs of children with profound disabilities. ta5ae 2005-01-15 19:10:07 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/resources/parents_carers_and_professionals/ofmiceandaliens No publisher ta5ae 2005-01-30 15:02:14 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/resources/parents_carers_and_professionals/theautisticspectrum No publisher ta5ae 2005-01-16 14:50:22 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/commercial/playlines Playlines has partnered in the development of over 600 out of school clubs, and offers business support development in childcare and playwork. Playlines is developing high quality provision for children, young people, their parents and families at all levels from local to national. ta5ae 2005-01-16 14:59:49 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/fun_sites/starfalllearntoread You'll find lots of interactive online games to help early literacy here, from letter recognition to non-fiction and comics. Aimed at younger children, different short activities are easy to work through with lots of fun animations. There are also many classroom ideas and activity sheets for teachers to download. ta5ae 2005-02-13 10:09:03 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/charities/dyspraxiafoundation We are a UK charity which exists to help people to understand and cope with dyspraxia. We are a resource for parents, for teenagers and adults who have the condition, and for professionals who help all of them. ta5ae 2005-01-17 13:23:27 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/learning_disability_information/emptech The team's aim is to provide continually updated information to those interested in enabling technologies. Developing reviews, linking to training and advice guides together with other resources ta5ae 2005-01-18 07:50:50 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/learning_disability_information/practicalparent Practical Parenting Advice is a FREE one-stop resource for parents and professionals wanting tips and support on child behaviour, development and family relationships. It offers parenting tips, an online course, a bookstore, a child behaviour quiz, games and activities, and more. ta5ae 2005-01-18 10:35:25 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/software_and_hardware/widgit Widgit Software is the longest running Special Educational Needs software company in the UK. Its products are designed to develop literacy using pictures, symbols and words, particularly for learners who have a measure of difficulty in developing traditional orthographic skills. ta5ae 2005-01-30 14:32:32 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/resources/parents_carers_and_professionals/symbolsnow The follow up to Literacy Through Symbols, Symbols Now is a collection of examples of ways in which pictorial symbols are being used with and by people with learning difficulties. The book is full of examples from practitioners who wish to share their experience more widely, to the benefit of everybody working in the field. The book highlights interesting and good practice which will help to inform newcomers and experts alike. Symbols Now is edited by Chris Abbott from Kings College, London. Symbols Now will be of interest to anybody involved with children and adults who have learning difficulties, or to people who would like to know more about how symbols can enhance access to learning and information. No publisher ta5ae 2005-08-12 04:13:08 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/resources/parents_carers_and_professionals/literacythroughsymbols Symbols are used widely to help children and adults with learning difficulties. Their use ranges from helping children who have difficulties learning to spell, through to children and adults who are not able to use traditional text as a means of reading and self-expression. This second edition of an important and essentially practical book is now fully updated and revised to take into account the significant developments that have been made in using symbols to support literacy. It is full of ideas and examples of the ways in which access to literacy can be enhanced through the use of symbols, based on experience of the authors and many practitioners. Topics covered include: * how symbols are being used in schools, colleges and day centres * ways in which symbols can help and enhance learning and independence * lots of new examples of good practice from practitioners * the results of the Rebus Symbol Development project * how symbols fit with the National Literacy Strategy * how symbols can be used to make information more accessible No publisher ta5ae 2005-08-12 04:14:57 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/software_and_hardware/symbolsinclusionproject Widgit Software and Warwickshire Education Authority working together using symbols to create resources, to support inclusion in mainstream Primary schools for KS1 and KS2. FREE Resources to download and use in your school! ta5ae 2005-02-13 11:52:49 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/resources/parents_carers_and_professionals/teachingreadingtochildrenwithds No publisher ta5ae 2005-01-30 15:49:04 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/resources/parents_carers_and_professionals/mathsforchildrenwithseverepmld No publisher ta5ae 2005-01-30 15:44:26 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/resources/parents_carers_and_professionals/onechild No publisher ta5ae 2005-01-30 15:55:26 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/learning_disability_information/scips.html This resource is aimed at academic staff and offers strategies for promoting inclusive teaching, learning and assessment within Higher Education programmes of study. ta5ae 2005-02-03 18:34:24 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/software_and_hardware/click2go Innovative Products for People with Special Needs. This site gives details of specialised joysticks and switch-based devices. email contact: info@click2go.ie ta5ae 2005-02-13 12:01:45 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/charities/csie CSIE is the Centre for Studies on Inclusive Education. It is an independent centre working in the UK and overseas to promote inclusion and end segregation. CSIE is committed to working towards an end to segregated education. Inclusion means all. This commitment is based on human rights principles. ta5ae 2005-02-05 16:26:09 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/charities/treloar The Treloar Trust is a registered charity and our purpose is to provide education, care and training for young people with disabilities. We aim to provide each individual with the support, confidence and skills to achieve the best that they can in all aspects of their lives. This specialist care is provided through Treloar School and Treloar College - centres of excellence which have established an effective, flexible, holistic approach to the education and support of severely disabled young people ta5ae 2005-02-05 16:48:20 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/onlinecommunities/myspecialchild MySpecialChild.co.uk is an online Magazine/community site for parents and carers of special needs children. It includes News, Articles, Stories, forum, games, competitions, etc.. ta5ae 2005-02-07 06:49:47 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/onlinecommunities/bectainclusionlists You should not miss the chance to join these community boards. They have thousands of members and are simply an excellent source of advice, support, ideas... everything you'll ever need to know about every area of SEN. The following groups have been set up in response to requests from practitioners who are supporting the education of learners with special educational needs or individual learning needs. Community Languages ; Distance-learning ; Education to learners with medical conditions ; Emotional and behavioural difficulties forum ; English as an additional language ; ESOL ; Gifted and talented forum ; Index Inclusion ; Northern Ireland Learning Support / Special Needs community ; Nurture groups ; Physical disability and neurological disabilities ; Pupil referral units – talk ; Respect for all ; Severe learning difficulties forum ; Special Educational Needs & Information Technology ; Special Educational Needs in Wales ; Special needs co-ordinators’ forum ; Speech and language difficulties ; Speech recognition ; Teachers of the deaf ; Traveller education ; Visual impairments forum ta5ae 2005-10-31 08:28:41 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/fun_sites/croatianstories These lovely stories use traditional music and beautiful ilustrations. Where there is text it is clearly read out. Navigating to the stories requires quite a lot of mouse control, though once loaded, some will just play through with no interaction required. On other stories students can explore pages and find different sound effects that help explain and give context. Worth a look. ta5ae 2005-02-13 10:28:32 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/fun_sites/countingtoten A simple counting animation. Good to use when reciting "Ten Green Bottles". Not a switch accessible site but you could replicate the left mouse click with a switch interface to give a switch user access to this activity. ta5ae 2005-02-13 12:22:47 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/fun_sites/boohbah There's no easy way to describe this site but i'll try: A wonderful collection of very colourful flash activities that interact with mouse clicks. A front screen takes you to lots of different things to explore and do. I like the synchronised blob dancing best. Go see. (Many thanks to Sarah Anderson and the pupils of Delamere School for recommending this). ta5ae 2005-02-13 12:39:27 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/fun_sites/oldmacdonaldsbbc This version of Old Macdonald's Farm not only gives you wonderful flash animations of the animals whilst singing the song, but also the chance to use your mouse to see extra cartoons. It is accompanied by some Makaton symbols for early signing. Make the screen full size and then get your students to click on, drag and drop animals, farmer and house on top of one another. Great for exploring and early mouse / touch screen work. ta5ae 2005-06-03 10:24:00 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/fun_sites/childrensstorybooks This site links to lots of online books. Some with flash animations and sound; some have text read out. Unfortunately the site has pop ups and other links so students may need help navigating to the stories. Lots here for all ages and some lovely illustrations. ta5ae 2005-02-13 14:05:40 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/fun_sites/candlelightstories Eight different cartoons and excellent 3d animations. Happily, most play full screen and the material spans different age groups. Text is used in some cartoons. Help is probably required for most students to click on download links. Download times are generally quite short. ta5ae 2005-02-13 14:45:30 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/fun_sites/thecatcameback This link opens to a busy front page so look for the picture of the cat and click on it. You will then find a lovely little cartoon and song. Watch the cat thwart his owner's many attempts to get rid of it. Thanks to Richard Walter from Meldreth Manor School for recommending this. ta5ae 2005-02-13 15:13:05 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/learning_disability_information/specialneedskids Special Needs Kids is an Information Directory and shopping site to help parents and carers of children with special needs. Information on products and services for special needs kids, events and campaigns, disability issues, support groups, respite care, clothing, equipment, toys, leisure activities and days out, holidays, where to go for help and advice, and much more. ta5ae 2005-02-20 16:30:28 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/learning_disability_information/challengingbehaviourfoundation The Challenging Behaviour Foundation exists to demonstrate that individuals with severe learning disabilities who are described as having challenging behaviour can enjoy normal life opportunities when their behaviour is properly understood and appropriately managed, and to support parents and carers through education and information to enable this to happen. ta5ae 2005-02-21 11:47:54 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/software_and_hardware/sarahgreenland This link takes you to three FREE excellent little downloads for programs to aid early learning:- K1 kaleidoscope demo, Pre Mouse and Touch Screen Mazes. They are quick and easy to download and make great little freebies for targetted ICT skills using switches, mouse and touchscreen. ta5ae 2005-02-25 07:18:18 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/servicesabroad/songbird_holidays.html Songbird Holidays is based in Normandy, France and provides holidays with music for accompanied adults with learning disabilities. We offer self-catering accommodation in a converted barn, which has been made into two apartments taking into account the needs of guests and carers. During the holiday there will be evenings of entertainment and live music, which take place in the clubroom or in the tipi. We wish to provide a relaxing and enjoyable holiday, which will be filled with a wealth of experience and opportunity. ta5ae 2005-02-26 07:21:02 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/learning_disability_information/senitcentrekeyboardingskills A wonderful guide to typing programme Ros Chapman devised especially for dyslexic people. It is not time consuming, seems to be highly motivating, is based on the alphabet, takes a maximum of 10 minutes per day for about 3 weeks and is free! It does not teach people to touch type, that is a different skill. It just teaches them how to find the letters much, much more quickly. ta5ae 2005-03-03 10:04:52 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/Members/imogen/southcheshirecollege This item has moved. ta5ae 2005-04-24 08:14:13 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/learning_disability_information/intellectualdisability This web-based learning resource is for medical and health care students and practitioners. Launched at the Houses of Parliament in February 2002, the site's main aim is to provide up-to-date information about the health needs of people with intellectual disabilities. The site covers a broad focus, and articles include subjects such as prevention and diagnosis, but also social care issues, family issues and perspectives and the perspectives of people with intellectual disabilities themselves. The website is used worldwide,which is why we use 'intellectual' disability or disabilities, terms which are increasingly recognised universally. In the UK the terms most commonly used are learning disability or learning difficulty. The site is run jointly by St George's, University of London and the Down's Syndrome Association. ta5ae 2005-04-06 11:27:57 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/commercial/pavilionpublishing.html Pavilion is a source of training resources for those working in social, healthcare and housing providing care provision. We publishes around 40 training packs specifically for those working with those with learning disabilities as well as the Learning Disability Review and Living WELL journals. We also run the Learning Disability Today exhibitions in London, Scotland and Manchester and around 10 learning disability conferences a year. For more information call 0870 161 3505 or visit www.pavpub.com ta5ae 2005-04-14 05:14:29 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/fun_sites/hittingpenguins.html Hours of fun to be had here. To play you just have to click/ touch the screen twice. Switch users can play too - just set your switch to mimic the left click. The first click sends the penguin down the slide. The second swings the Yeti's baseball bat. My personal best is 292 meters. Can you beat it??? Great age appropriate flash animation game to teach timing skills. Many thanks to Hilary Shannon for telling us about it. ta5ae 2005-04-18 06:02:11 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/commercial/thedyslexiashop.html The Dyslexia Shop is a web-based information site and shop. It is aimed primarily at the parents of children with dyslexia. However, adults with dyslexia, learning support teachers and those responsible for the development of people with special educational needs will find something of interest. We sell tried and tested products, all of which have been carefully selected to be useful to a person with dyslexia. E.g. Books, teaching aids, electronic spell-checkers, computer software, digital voice recorders, games, coloured overlays, wobble boards, writing slopes, typing tutors, stationery and dietary supplements etc. We also provide access, through our website, to journal articles, research papers and books to aid product evaluation. ta5ae 2005-05-25 14:08:52 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/fun_sites/dotolearn.html ta5ae 2005-04-18 11:37:17 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/learning_disability_information/thetateproject.html The Home Farm Trust (HFT) is the lead organisation in the TATE (Through Assistive Technology to Employment) project funded under the second round of Equal. The project is looking at how (electronic) assistive technology (AT) can support independence for people with learning disabilities and enhance their employment prospects. There are 13 partners and the outputs include new and adapted AT devices, new lifeskills software which will focus on technology in and around the home and software which will focus on finance and personal budgeting. The project will also work to produce an accredited modular course for people with learning disabilities which will recognise the skills needed for employment in a variety of settings. There is an emphasis on mainstreaming and dissemination of outputs and lessons learnt so the project will also seek to influence policy makers and employers. To learn more visit the website (to be replaced as an accessible website as part of the implementation phase of the project) www.tateproject.org.uk or contact Ann Aspinall (Project Manager) on 01453 889499 or email: ann.aspinall@hft.org.uk ta5ae 2005-04-23 16:02:16 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/learning_disability_information/movingonup.html Are you a young person aged 14-25, with a learning disability, going through transition and from a black or minority ethnic community?? If you said yes to all or any of these then the new website 'Moving On Up' may be just what you are looking for! ta5ae 2005-04-25 10:21:40 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/fun_sites/electionspecial2005.html An area of symbolworld dealing with the election. Loads of information about parliament, What is an MP, What is an opinion poll etc, plus simplified statements from the main political parties, all in symbols. ta5ae 2005-04-25 09:38:55 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/onlinecommunities/bildforums.html The Foundation’s forums offer more excellent and very popular subjects: Choice Forum, the UK Health and Learning Disability Network, PMLD (Profound and Multiple Learning Disabilities) Network, and Hidden Loves (same sex relationships). These different forums are an unending source of invaluable knowledge - have a look. ta5ae 2009-07-24 06:19:41 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/commercial/littlesheeplearning.html Fun educational resources for everyone - books, games, flashcards and lots more! These resources are especially useful for children with special educational needs. ta5ae 2005-05-18 11:49:07 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/charities/ccnukdirectory.html A national directory of key worker services with information to download about each service. ta5ae 2005-05-31 11:57:02 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/charities/ccnukkeyworkerstandards Key Worker standards which have been endorsed by the government in the NSF, and by Early Support. ta5ae 2005-05-31 11:56:52 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/learning_disability_information/deaf247.htm Deaf 24/7 An internet resource for all British Sign Language and deafness-related information especially in the United Kingdom. We are non-profit project and receive no outside funding for its maintenance. ta5ae 2005-06-01 06:34:03 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/onlinecommunities/registeredmanagersforum.htm An online forum and resource centre for Registered Managers of Residential and Nursing Services. Ever feel out on a limb or need a bit of support from your peers? Ever want to discuss a "scenario" with "colleagues" in a confidential and supportive manner? Fancy just sounding off about the pay? Then get yourself registered on the NEWEST forum for Registered Managers. ta5ae 2005-06-03 05:07:21 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/fun_sites/cbeebiesrazzledazzle.htm Inclusive Technology and CBBC have combined efforts in a joint project to give switch users the chance to play with their favourite CBeebies characters. Listen to the sound, and then guess what each object is. Requires a little bit of switching skill to navigate through the game, and provides good practice. Play with one or two switches. ta5ae 2005-06-12 13:23:14 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/fun_sites/cbeebiessnagasnoot.htm Inclusive Technology and CBBC have combined efforts in a joint project to give switch users the chance to play with their favourite CBeebies characters. To snag a Snoot you need to be able to use just one switch, and press it in a time frame set by the level of the game that you choose. On the easy level you have up to six seconds to snag each Snoot that pops up on screen, falling to about four seconds on the medium level and only two at the hardest level. Snag as many snoots as you can in one minute and get a cool animated, musical reward. Another way to make the game more difficult is to choose the Migo level, where points are taken off for snagging Rockit by accident. This game is great for those motivated by scores too. If none of this makes sense, click the link and have a go yourself. ta5ae 2005-06-12 13:37:01 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/fun_sites/cbeebiesbalamory.htm Inclusive Technology and CBBC have combined efforts in a joint project to give switch users the chance to play with their favourite CBeebies characters. This game's all about money and prices. It also uses early maths comparative terms such as "cheapest" and "most expensive". Most instructions are read out clearly, though non-readers will need a bit of help. Play with one or two switches as well as standard access methods. ta5ae 2005-06-12 12:10:28 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/fun_sites/cbeebiesboogiebeebies.htm Inclusive Technology and CBBC have combined efforts in a joint project to give switch users the chance to play with their favourite CBeebies characters. Boogie Beebies is a guessing game - great for people stimulated by music and dance. Lots of animation and a catchy tune. Play with one or two switches, or concept/intellikeys keyboard. You can use your mouse or touch screen too of course. Have fun. ta5ae 2005-06-12 12:15:26 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/fun_sites/cbeebiessomethingspecial.htm Inclusive Technology and CBBC have combined efforts in a joint project to give switch users the chance to play with their favourite CBeebies characters. Transport Snap matches a photo to either another photo, a symbol (Makaton), a sign (basic BSL as a cartoon) or an audio prompt. Great for working on specific prompts / visual media. In addition to usual access methods you can also use one or two switches, concept or intellikeys board. ta5ae 2005-06-12 12:21:24 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/fun_sites/cbeebiesteletubbies.htm Inclusive Technology and CBBC have combined efforts in a joint project to give switch users the chance to play with their favourite CBeebies characters. This is a game of timing and observation skills that can be made very easy or quite fast. Wait to see the Teletubby, then click your mouse, touch the screen or press your switch in time and the Teletubby will pop up and greet you. ta5ae 2005-06-12 12:24:36 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/fun_sites/cbeebiestotstv.htm Inclusive Technology and CBBC have combined efforts in a joint project to give switch users the chance to play with their favourite characters from Tots TV. This game works on counting up to ten in French and English with both words and numbers. Play with one or two switches, concept or intellikeys keyboard, mouse or touch screen. ta5ae 2005-06-12 12:29:36 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/fun_sites/cbeebiesstartastic.htm Inclusive Technology and CBBC have combined efforts in a joint project to give switch users the chance to play with their favourite CBeebies characters. This game has two levels, that both test colour matching and direction and gives lots of switch practice. Level two gives more choices and so is slightly harder. You can also draw star patterns in the sky. Play with one or two switches, concept or intellikeys board. This game requires very good switching skills as there are a lot of presses to reach the rewards. ta5ae 2005-06-12 12:41:44 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/fun_sites/cbeebiestikkabilla.htm Inclusive Technology and CBBC have combined efforts in a joint project to give switch users the chance to play with their favourite CBeebies characters. Follow Tamba the dragon as she searches for her lost toy and work out how she feels during the story. The voiceover is clear and you must select from five emotions: happy, sad, suprised, excited and angry. Access by standard methods as well as one/two switches. ta5ae 2005-06-12 12:48:09 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/fun_sites/cbeebiesdebbieduck.htm Inclusive Technology and CBBC have combined efforts in a joint project to give switch users the chance to play with their favourite CBeebies characters. Debbie Duck's all about matching sounds to animals on a quest. Find all of Debbie's friends to send them back to her pond and you will be rewarded with an animal concert. This is a nice game for switch users getting used to single switching with timing or discriminating between two switches. Uses all the same access methods as the other CBeebies links here. ta5ae 2005-06-12 12:57:52 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/fun_sites/cbeebiesmusicmax.htm Inclusive Technology and CBBC have combined efforts in a joint project to give switch users the chance to play with their favourite CBeebies characters. Max's music uses two switches and gives switch users lots of practice in choosing the correct one to press on cue. Listen to the names of different musical instruments and the sounds that they make, then choose four to create your own unique tune. You can listen to this as many times as you like, or start again with four more choices. ta5ae 2005-06-12 13:16:14 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/fun_sites/cbeebiesoldmacdonald.htm Inclusive Technology and CBBC have combined efforts in a joint project to give switch users the chance to play with their favourite CBeebies characters. This is the switch accessible version of the Old Macdonald's Farm link above. Play with one or two switches, and have fun with Old Macdonald's animated farm. ta5ae 2005-06-12 13:20:02 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/fun_sites/fireworks1.html The premise is simple - clicking anywhere with your mouse (or setting a switch to emulate a left mouse click) will produce a satisfying and never ending stream of fireworks. Great for early, simple mouse / touch screen/ whiteboard work or paired activities between mouse and switch users. Thanks to May and Frank who have given permission for us add this link. ta5ae 2005-06-10 04:17:23 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/fun_sites/fireworks2.html If you liked the previous fireworks link and want more, this is for you. Same thing, more colours... Great for early, simple mouse/ interactive whiteboard / touch screen work or paired activities between mouse and switch users. ta5ae 2005-06-10 04:39:06 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/software_and_hardware/rjcooperbiggy.html This download link takes you to BiggyLite - a selection of the larger commercially available Biggy. Biggy helps you to take control of the mouse pointer - it makes it bigger, animated, left-handed, lockable... you name it. Biggy is an excellent program, and this free trial will enable you to test it out and see if it meets your needs. ta5ae 2009-03-06 05:42:22 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/software_and_hardware/acecentresaw.html A great FREE download from the ACE Centre. Switch Access to Windows (SAW) enables users to access Windows 95, 98, Me, 2000 and XP applications using one or two switches. The download includes extensive help files which include tutorials. ta5ae 2005-06-13 09:47:02 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/software_and_hardware/acecentrelargecursors.html Problems using a mouse? This might be the answer. You'll find over 80 additional pointers and cursors for those with visual or perceptual difficulties. Icon styles include animated, coloured, large, I-beams and circles. Thanks to David Colven of the ACE Centre for providing this link. ta5ae 2008-10-08 09:29:32 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/software_and_hardware/artrage.html This has soared to the top of my favourite freebies list. It's a small file to download and offers a fantastically simple art tool to explore the media of felt pen, chalk, oil paint, crayon and even a palette knife. Brilliant for touch screens, interactive whiteboards and early mouse skills, this will encourage creativity, choice making and group work. Pictures can be exported to other programs when you're done. For PCs or Macs and highly recommended. ta5ae 2005-06-17 05:46:33 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/commercial/dyslexialessons.html Affordable and enjoyable self-help lessons for children and adults with Dyslexia or Dyspraxia to print and do at home. ta5ae 2007-03-31 07:22:14 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/onlinecommunities/ASSISTECH.html A discussion list for Assistive Technology professionals. ta5ae 2005-07-11 04:42:38 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/onlinecommunities/disforum.html A discussion list for disabled students and their support staff. ta5ae 2005-07-11 04:44:30 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/onlinecommunities/itassist.html A discussion list for Assistive Technology providers in Higher Education institutions ta5ae 2005-07-11 04:46:08 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/software_and_hardware/zenkey.html The Zenkey is a FREE program that allows you to control almost all aspects of your computer via the keyboard. It can control the speed of the mouse pointer from keyboard shortcuts. Using keystrokes that work no matter which program you are in, you can do actions like launch a program or bring it back into focus; open a document, folder or Internet resource; perform an Internet search; minimize or maximize a window; issue a Media command. You can add any program, add or alter any menu, and assign any keystroke to perform any action. A massive thank you to David Colven for recommending this. Works on 98 NT 2k Me XP 95 2003 machines. ta5ae 2005-07-18 10:17:13 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/software_and_hardware/cenmacresources.html CENMAC have loads of ideas sheets for teachers and parents. These include using your communication devices, note takers, switches, switch acessible software, Clicker, Neos, Penfriend, symbols, specialised mice, IntelliKeys, cause and effect, spelling... you name it. If you're in a mainstream or special needs inclusive setting with adults or kids, looking at this site will save you a whole lot of time. Many thanks to Ann and Trish at CENMAC for sharing these resources. ta5ae 2009-03-06 04:58:41 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/charities/parkingforbluebadges.html a web site built for the Association of London Governments (ALG). The ALG represent the 33 London Boroughs. and the above sites objective is to inform all Blue Badge Holders of the rules that apply in each of the London Boroughs, as they vary in where you can and can't park. People wishing to obtain a guide showing the parking bays in central London can purchase a guide on line. If your organisation also want to resell these guides special rates can be offered. Alternatively you might wish to add a leaflet that we produce into information packs you might supply. These are available free of charge. ta5ae 2005-07-26 05:49:52 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/fun_sites/choiceandvoice.html We are a group of people with Learning Disabilities who have set up our own website for other people with Learning Disabilities. We hope the site will grow through the contributions and involvement of other people with Learning Disabilities wherever they live. We would love to hear from people and get contributions and ideas from people who have visted the site and would like to use it more. The more contributions and ideas we get the better the site will be. ta5ae 2005-07-28 10:49:37 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/commercial/logicallearning.html I am a parent who designed a numeracy resource to help my children learn their multiplication tables. This resource was developed and Numberball was a finalist in this years Education Resources Awards in two categories, and has been called '... a simple piece of kinaesthetic genius ...' by the Times Educational Supplement. The Special Needs Information Press said Numberball was "A worthwhile resource of great value in promoting and sustaining the practice needed to acquire automatic response to multiplication." Gillian Brookes, Director ta5ae 2005-08-01 10:16:17 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/onlinecommunities/ukhealthandldnetwork.html This is an open network to anyone interested in health issues and learning disability. It is free but you'll need an email facility. There are approximately 1200 members nationally and we have network meetings four times a year -always 11-3pm. The remit of the forum is to assist practitioners with the health agenda, to problem solve, share information and to network. To join please email Janet Cobb - janet.cobb@nwtdt.com ta5ae 2005-08-04 03:22:03 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/learning_disability_information/silentvictims.html This site aims to highlight the abuse of adults with learning difficulties and to campaign for higher sentences for those who commit such crimes. The site is run by journalist John Pring and includes news stories about the latest cases of abuse and up-to-date information on the campaign. ta5ae 2005-08-04 03:25:33 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/resources/parents_carers_and_professionals/callingtheshots.html "People with learning disabilities and family carers being trainers and decision makers...You're having a laugh surely?" Released October 2005, Calling The Shots is a new film and interactive training resource in DVD format which shows you how to fully involve people with learning disabilities and family carers in every aspect of training and more. For more information email clare.h@scld.co.uk or visit http://www.ixseed.org.uk No publisher ta5ae www.scopeproductions.co.uk www.scld.co.uk heartfelt_ltd@yahoo.co.uk 2005-08-24 16:42:31 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/learning_disability_information/interconnectionsbulletin.html The Electronic Bulletin goes free to over 3,500 people in all parts of the UK and Ireland and then finds it way into many other networks and countries. The address list includes people from health, education and social services, the voluntary and private sectors, parent organisations, research organisations, campaign offices, etc. People who receive the bulletin are welcome to forward it to their own colleagues and networks and to use the information in newsletters and bulletins as long as the Interconnections Electronic Bulletin is acknowledged. Information in the Bulletin can include: • News from other networks • News of government initiatives • Information about forthcoming conferences, meetings and events • Features about examples of good practice and innovative work • Summaries of research findings • Questions to which people are seeking answers • Information about small organisations and campaigns • Job vacancies ta5ae 2005-08-10 06:14:04 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/resources/parents_carers_and_professionals/widgirrebusglossary.html The Glossary is 152 pages and describes: * The Rebus Symbol Development Project and design criteria of the new symbols * A section on using the Glossary * A full listing of the Widgit Rebus symbol set classified under topic headings. No publisher ta5ae 2005-08-12 06:26:32 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/resources/parents_carers_and_professionals/mindreading.html This dvd-rom contains videos and audios of actors expressing every known human emotion, through the face and the voice. It is a resource for people who want to study human emotions to improve their recognition skills. It is aimed at children from age 4 through to adulthood, and contains over 5000 emotion files that can be accessed as an encyclopedia of emotions or as games and quizzes. No publisher ta5ae Copyright is held between the publisher (jkp.com) and Cambridge University, and the royalty to the latter goes entirely into charitable Autism research. 2005-08-24 16:48:36 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/learning_disability_information/beingdyslexic.html Dyslexia information, inspiration, advice & support. ta5ae 2005-08-18 03:31:29 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/commercial/astonswann.html The European Computer Driving Licence (ECDL) for Students courseware by Aston Swann teaches the computer skills needed to attain this computer skills qualification. The accessibility version of the ECDL for Students courseware is specifically designed as compatible with Dolphin Computer Access products for pupils with visual impairments such as partial sight or visual dyslexia. The learning material is also suitable for people with learning disabilities and is used in some schools for pupils with special educational needs, autism and behavioural difficulties. ta5ae 2005-08-18 10:48:54 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/onlinecommunities/parentssidebyside.html Online website and forum focusing on effective support for parents of children with special needs. Managed by parents, for parents, Side by Side is a great place to make new friends, discuss statagies and concerns and talk with people who know exactly what it is like to walk a mile in your shoes. ta5ae 2005-08-24 12:14:41 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/charities/advocacy_resource_exchange.html Interactive advocacy resources in partnership with the independent advocacy sector ta5ae 2005-09-02 09:32:51 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/learning_disability_information/easywords.html Up to date information about what Oxfordshire is doing to make Valuing People happen in Oxfordshire ta5ae 2005-09-02 09:29:14 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/learning_disability_information/sexual_health_and_relationships.html The Sexual Health and Wellbeing Learning Network (NHS Health Scotland) has just published Sexual Health and Relationships: A Review of Resources for People with Learning Disabilities. This guide is intended for professionals who work directly with people with learning disabilities, or with parents/carers, or other professionals from the health, education, social work and voluntary sectors. It is a collection of reviews of sexual health and relationships resources, with review comments gathered from a wide range of practitioners including teachers, community learning disability nurses, clinical psychologists, health promotion specialists, other health professionals and support and voluntary organisations. For a copy of this publication please visit our website. ta5ae 2005-09-02 08:20:17 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/resources/parents_carers_and_professionals/phonological_skills.html Comprehensive pack for working with phonological awareness. Suitable for groups or individuals from the age of 4 years. Can be used by classroom assistants or parents with support from a speech and language therapist. 200 activities with over 300 pages of b/w pictures. Colour pictures are available to purchase separately. Please contact kathrynmary@tiscali.co.uk for purchasing details. No publisher ta5ae Kathryn Dickie 2005-09-12 12:30:02 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/learning_disability_information/equal_people_in_stoke.html Learning disability partnership board website ta5ae 2005-09-12 12:24:06 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/learning_disability_information/lancashire_database.html The Database has been set up as a requirement of the 1989 Children Act. It is a multi-agency undertaking with Parents, Voluntary Organisations, Social Services, Education and Health. Inclusion on the database is voluntary and information given is completely confidential and will not affect any entitlement to services. What are the benefits for children and their families to be included on the database? A FREE regular FIND newsletter will be delivered direct to your door to which you can contribute to at any time. A FREE on-line directory containing information of service providers can be found at the web site. Record of Entry forms are now available to complete online and service providers can become part of the growing online searchable service FIND driectory at the web address below. For further information please contact Dawn Helm - Lancashire Disability Database Co-ordinator Lancashire County Council - Social Services Office, Brindle Road, Bamber Bridge,Preston, PR6 5RP Tel: 01772 532509 Fax: 01772 532544 e-mail find.socserv@ssd.lancscc.gov.uk or visit our website: http://www.lancashire.gov.uk/FIND ta5ae 2007-08-01 06:57:29 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/learning_disability_information/semanticpragmaticdisorder The site aims to provides support, resources and information concerning semantic-pragmatic disorder--a language/communication disorder that is commonly found in children on the Autistic Spectrum ta5ae 2005-10-09 16:15:33 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/software_and_hardware/minutetimer.html This is an excellent idea to help increase concentration span and time awareness. Perhaps you want a student to write for two minutes, or to complete an activity within 10 minutes? Clicking this link takes you to a freely downloadable timer. Simply choose the length of time you want to countdown and click start to turn on the timer. When the time's up, a message will appear in the middle of the screen to tell you - simple, but effective. Thanks to Tara Marshall for contributing this. ta5ae 2005-10-11 14:15:54 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/commercial/face.html We develop assessment tools for use in health and social care and have developed a package for use in services for people with learning disabilities ta5ae 2006-11-11 16:41:25 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/software_and_hardware/qualiweb.html If you can't use a mouse you cannot use the internet - fact! QualiWeb Pro enables people with disabilities, (principally anyone who cannot use a mouse), to surf the net and use internet based services. Whatever the disability right up to complete paralysis users can move the cursor around the screen using any one of a variety of methods which include manual scan, auto scan, XY mouse, radar mouse or directional mouse and auto-click on links without actually touching the computer. An on-screen keyboard allows users to key in text or numerals directly into web pages, again, without the use of a mouse or even the need to touch the computer. ta5ae 2005-10-27 05:53:26 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/commercial/jessicakingsleypublishers.html Jessica Kingsley publishers provide a wealth of books and resources on autism spectrum conditions, learning disabilities, special needs and social work, suitable for parents and professionals. ta5ae 2005-11-02 06:58:08 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/software_and_hardware/freedigitalphotos.html Using photos is one way of making documents greatly more appealing and accessible for students with special needs. Here you'll find a collection of quality photos that can be used for any purpose including teaching aids and homework. Search and browse functions allow you to find images from different contexts, from everyday items, to people, places and animals. ta5ae 2005-11-02 04:36:57 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/software_and_hardware/flickr.html Share or find photos with this great new online application. Flickr is a way to show your photos to the people who matter to you. With Flickr you can: * Show off your favourite photos to the world * Blog the photos you take with a cameraphone * Securely and privately show photos to your friends and family around the world. For teachers, parents and students - this site is easy to use (though you need to use a mouse and keyboard) and has been recommended to Check The Map as an easy way to share your photos to the people you want to see them. And basic accounts are free! ta5ae 2005-11-02 05:09:20 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/commercial/ioseminars.html People who are learning disabled are probably the most inactive and overweight / obese group of people in our society. This seminar will provide practical solutions to address weight management and to increase physical activity levels. ta5ae 2005-11-08 12:45:08 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/commercial/endlesspotential.html Endless Potential provides consultation services to families in the UK. We have resources available to purchase - Project: Autism, our behavioural intervention software are web based applications which can be downloaded after purchase. The software includes protocols on what to teach, how to teach (discussion of 10 different methodologies including DTT, Errorless Teaching, Son-Rise, Floortime, Social stories, Lovaas techniques, Relationship Development Intervention (RDI)...), when and where to teach these skills. The software is designed to allow parents to tailor the program to their child's specific needs. The software also contains a behaviour vault that gives parents ideas and information on how to decrease and eliminate specific behavioural issues. ta5ae 2005-11-28 11:35:56 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/charities/firststeps.html First Steps is a directory of information about disabled children's services in Southampton and south west Hampshire, produced every 18 months. It describes the health, social care and education services which are available, and lists leisure and many more activities. A website is being planned. The Directory is free to families in the area. ta5ae 2005-12-05 04:30:35 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/fun_sites/adventpriorywoods.html The calendar uses simple child friendly navigation designed to used independently or with minimum support. In contrast to most web based advent calendars which usually have either pictures or ‘interesting’ Christmas facts, our calendar has a new game or creative activity behind each door. Recommended to CTM by Ian Bean - many thanks! ta5ae 2005-12-05 05:47:40 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/fun_sites/alarmclock.html What better way to help those with issues around understanding time and remaining on a task for set periods than a lovely big on-screen clock with a programmable alarm? Thanks to Dave Lane, there's one that can be linked live whilst you're connected to the Internet (or downloaded if you search in the downloads section). ta5ae 2005-12-16 09:29:43 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/software_and_hardware/alarmclock.html What better way to help those with issues around understanding time and remaining on a task for set periods than a lovely big analogue on-screen clock with a programmable alarm? Thanks to Dave Lane, here's one that can be downloaded from this link (or used directly whilst you're connected to the Internet). ta5ae 2005-12-16 09:38:42 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/commercial/ldaf.html This is the site for the Learning Disability Award Framework. The awards are currently for those working with people who have a learning disability but in the next financial year we will be starting work on a level 1 award for people with a learning disability themselves. Check the website for more information. ta5ae 2005-12-20 07:46:56 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/learning_disability_information/essexlibraries.html You can borrow books, hire DVDs, music CDs, or audio books. Use our information and enquiry service, or telephone Answers Direct 0845 603 7628. Use our computers for e-mail, the Internet, writing a letter, finding information or learning; all computers can read text to you, with symbol software in larger libraries. View art exhibitions. A tour of your library can be arranged for new members or groups. ta5ae 2005-12-23 14:56:02 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/fun_sites/makeasnowflake.html This is brilliant. Use your mouse, touchscreen or whiteboard to touch falling snowflakes, or move on to the more creative business of 'cutting' out symmetrical shapes to make your own, unique snowflake. Check The Map's shoddy effort is gallery number 10539500 but we're sure you can do a lot better! When you're satisfied with your snowflake, you can print it off as a jpeg for all sorts of uses. Thanks to David Fettes for pointing us in the direction of this addictive resource. ta5ae 2006-01-03 15:33:43 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/resources/parents_carers_and_professionals/wellbeingworkshop.html This is a multimedia training pack to help services run workshops for carers No publisher ta5ae 2006-11-11 12:29:34 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/fun_sites/teenzone.html Teenzone, by Mencap, contains all sorts of useful, accessible stuff centred around Teenage issues. Click the link to go to a page where you can find out more about transition, play on a beat box, make faces, play games and more. Fairly good mouse control is needed for the activities on this site, though a lot of the information is simple and clearly read out as you move your mouse over pictures, videos and words. ta5ae 2006-01-11 15:18:26 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/fun_sites/dancing_hippo.html Everyone loves this great switch or touch screen activity so much we thought it deserved a special mention. If you haven't seen this, have a look. We guarantee you'll love it. The hippo is brought to you by Ian Bean and the pupils of Priory Woods School... ta5ae 2006-01-11 15:28:33 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/learning_disability_information/school_proof.html A comprehensive and evidence-based guide to teaching dyslexic children at home. The site includes plenty of practical advice, useful not just for the parents of dyslexic children but for any parent (or grandparent) whose children, schooled or otherwise, need help with the basics of the three R's;. Home tutors and the parents of children with school phobia /school refusal may also find the content useful. ta5ae 2006-01-11 15:47:11 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/resources/parents_carers_and_professionals/inclusion_children_dyspraxia.html This book gives the reader a unique insight and understanding of the hidden disability - dyspraxia. Written by two people with considerable experience, it allows the reader to genuinely appreciate the needs of children with dyspaxia. It provides a comprehensive overview of dyspraxia, and offers a wealth of essential information relating to support strategies. No publisher ta5ae 2006-01-12 05:28:58 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/learning_disability_information/infoispeek.html Infoispeek is a sister site of Ispeek that is a free information site. The site is for anyone affected by autism and gives tips, advice and information and where to find help on ASD's. There are easy money saving ideas for you to implement at home, many sent by parents, carers and professionals. You can also download free resources to try out the Ispeek symbols for yourself. The site is made by Janet Dixon who worked in a specialist school for autism. ta5ae 2006-01-12 06:02:20 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/charities/theoakleatrust.html The Oaklea Trust supports people with disabilities through the provision of: A variety of Residential Accommodation, Community Support Services (Supported Living, Outreach & Domiciliary Care), Leisure Services, Staff Training & Employment Services (New Deal, Work Prep, Ability First and WorkStep). We currently operate in Cumbria, Lancashire, Co.Durham, Northumberland & Greater Manchester. ta5ae 2006-01-12 05:56:33 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/resources/people_with_learning_disabilities/mybrotherisdifferent.html Synopsis: A booklet to help young siblings of autistic children understand what autism is. From the Author: This book was written to help my daughters, Jemma and Jade, understand why their brother, Jack, did the things he did and help them accept that even though he did embarrasing things when we were out he couldn't actually help it! Why does he knock my games off the table?, he's so destructive. Why does he squeal when we go out? Why doesn't he get told off when he's naughty like I do? I hope that this book will help other families like ours! No publisher ta5ae 2006-01-16 13:15:43 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/fun_sites/colouringbooks.html This is a lovely resource - part of the ton of books, puzzles and games for children of all ages on Magic Keys. Use mouse or touchscreen to choose from standard painting tools and a range of colours to create your own picture. There are loads of outlines to keep you busy - from flowers to footballers. Great practice for struggling mouse users, or for those budding artists that find an adapted mouse / touch screen access much more successful than using a paintbrush. You can print outlines to colour off the computer or your finished work to show off. ta5ae 2006-01-16 14:00:44 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/resources/parents_carers_and_professionals/frameworkforlanguage.html This is a full-colour downloadable CDROM resource which targets the speaking and listening area of the National Curriculum in order to aid Teachers, Teaching Assistants, Nursery Workers and other Professionals. It contains session plans and objective sheets for five different topics of the Curriculum at three developmental levels (from early P Levels to National Curriculum Level 2), as well as providing all the resources to support these programmes. This framework was devised by Speech and Language Therapists and is a simple easy to use resource which requires no training or lengthy assessment to get going! No publisher ta5ae Copyright FLIC Ltd 2004 2006-02-09 15:44:26 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/resources/parents_carers_and_professionals/introtochallengingbehaviour.html No publisher ta5ae 2006-01-31 14:18:42 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/fun_sites/skywriting.html Skywriting is taken from the growing bank of free to use tools and resources created for teachers who are teaching with an interactive whiteboard (IWB) on their main site www.iwb.org.uk For pupils learning about letters, large motor movements can really help to make the activity fun and memorable. This is a wonderful whiteboard / touch screen resource for group or individual work. ta5ae 2006-01-30 05:04:52 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/resources/parents_carers_and_professionals/circle_of_adults.html The Circle of Adults process offers a clear structure and a stimulating experience to allow adults to support and extend their work with young people who have emotional and behavioural difficulties. It costs £19.95 plus post and packing. No publisher ta5ae 2006-01-31 14:19:03 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/fun_sites/kneebouncers.html These are designed for a younger audience, but make wonderful switch/early keyboard activities with simple cartoon graphics and sound effects. Choose from 'Underwater Adventure' (any key press gets an animation); 'Guitar, Piano and Drums' - any key press generates a sound - fantastic for switch group work; 'Jump & Float', and 'Peekaboo' are great for sustaining holding down a switch or key - the longer you hold the key down the longer you see the picture; 'Balloons, Bubbles & Flowers' is a nice sensory activity where each key/switch press creates a bubble that floats upwards then pops satisfyingly. Lastly, there's 'All Aboard' when a train chugs into view and each key/switch press animates a bit of the train. My favourite is Jump & Float - but you be the judge. Our thanks to Jim Robinson of 'Punch' for permission to add this to Check The Map. ta5ae 2006-02-01 12:52:29 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/fun_sites/senswitcher.html This is surely the single most useful resource for switch assessment work on the Internet. High contrast, simple screens which take you from experiential levels, right through to timed switch pressing, targetting and scanning. Works for touch screen/ interactive whiteboard users too. Play online or free to download. Simply excellent. ta5ae 2006-02-02 06:45:58 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/fun_sites/bluemantheatre.html Now it's not just paint you can chuck into your own collage - but marshmallows, crunchy bits, jell-o, balloons and twinkies (what are they?). This excellent, interactive site gives your mouse / switch / touch screen users the chance to make their own artwork and send it to their friends. We're not admitting which one in the gallery belongs to Check The Map but know you'll do considerably better. Incidentally, marshmallows and crunchy bits only stick to something sticky.... enjoy. Many thanks to Trish Davidson for this great find. ta5ae 2006-02-23 08:02:44 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/software_and_hardware/philiphenderson.html Clear large cursors for MS Windows platform - free to download for use on your PC. A wonderful range of cursor alternatives for students who find the standard range of cursors difficult to see. You can choose from a range of colours and all the icons are clear and very well thought out. I'm using the red pointer set right now and it's excellent. Many thanks to Philip Henderson for creating this fabulous resource. ta5ae 2006-02-23 17:35:05 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/commercial/picturethis.html Making information easier to understand. ta5ae 2006-03-05 08:28:02 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/fun_sites/adventurestory.html Want to be a story maker? Now's your chance. Fill in the missing words and create a fun story usign a whole range of new words in different ways. Mouse click on the icon each time it appears and you'll have six words / symbols to choose from. At the end you can print out your story to share with friends. A great activity from the CAP Club. ta5ae 2006-03-06 05:51:21 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/fun_sites/poissonrouge.html Loads of wonderfully animated simple games with sound effects. There are jigsaws to make, pictures to colour, counting games and letter games in French and English, some simple mouse skills games, games that can be switch adapted if you use space bar and arrow keys... lots of recommendations to add this and our thanks to members of SENIT. ta5ae 2006-03-06 11:19:36 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/learning_disability_information/ldwales.html Learning Disability Wales (formerly SCOVO) is the collective voice of the voluntary sector in Wales and promotes the right of children and adults with a learning disability to have valued lives. We: *** Work in partnership with other organisations, service users and their parents/carers *** Campaign to help children and adults with learning disabilities achieve valued lives *** Support the voluntary sector and its interests *** Provide and promote good practice *** Provide training and resources Operate an information service, including regular publications ta5ae 2007-02-10 16:07:30 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/charities/communicationmatters.html Communication Matters is a UK national charitable organisation of members concerned with the augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) needs of people with complex communication needs. Communication Matters is also known as ISAAC (UK) - the UK Chapter of the International Society for Augmentative and Alternative Communication (ISAAC) - and is a core member of the Communications Forum. ta5ae 2006-03-17 08:54:19 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/learning_disability_information/enabledlondon.html Finding out about places with good access, amenities and attitude in London. ta5ae 2006-03-24 09:03:28 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/learning_disability_information/equals.html Equals is committed to improving the lives of children and young people with learning difficulties and disabilities through supporting high quality education. We promote, share and reflect best practice in learning and teaching through collaborative working with practitioners and professionals at a national, regional and local level. EQUALS aims to: • Promote the highest standards of education for pupils with learning difficulties. • Influence the educational practice and policy at local, regional and national levels by consulting and liasing with QCA, DfES, OFSTED and the TDA. • Support teachers in applying governmental policy in the education of children with learning difficulties. • Foster high quality innovative practice, through the publication of relevant and rigorous support materials. • Advance the entitlement of pupils with learning difficulties to equality of opportunity. • Facilitate the rights of pupils to speak for themselves. • Voice the concerns of teachers and head ta5ae 2006-03-30 04:35:51 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/charities/equals.html Equals is committed to improving the lives of children and young people with learning difficulties and disabilities through supporting high quality education. We promote, share and reflect best practice in learning and teaching through collaborative working with practitioners and professionals at a national, regional and local level. EQUALS aims to: • Promote the highest standards of education for pupils with learning difficulties. • Influence the educational practice and policy at local, regional and national levels by consulting and liasing with QCA, DfES, OFSTED and the TDA. • Support teachers in applying governmental policy in the education of children with learning difficulties. • Foster high quality innovative practice, through the publication of relevant and rigorous support materials. • Advance the entitlement of pupils with learning difficulties to equality of opportunity. • Facilitate the rights of pupils to speak for themselves. • Voice the concerns of teachers and head ta5ae 2006-03-30 05:03:57 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/software_and_hardware/charliesgraphics.html This is a very useful FREE resource where you can browse and download graphics, intended to support facilitators who are planning with people, or anyone looking to make information easier to understand. The graphics are age appropriate and simple in design. You need to register to browse the gallery which is free and took Check The Map about five seconds. An invaluable resource - thanks to Charlie for telling us about it. ta5ae 2006-03-27 03:45:13 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/fun_sites/learntotype.html A free typing tutor with animations, spoken instructions and a colourful, fun interface that can be made full screen. The program has different levels of difficulty and simple typing exercises with visual feedback at each stage. Our thanks to Ann Middleton for this useful link. ta5ae 2006-04-25 05:47:45 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/fun_sites/ictgames.html This site provides ICT activites linked to the English National Curriculum. Divided into literacy and numeracy there are tons of wonderful resources and games that cover topics such as: counting, subtracting, number bonds, weights and measurements, division, multiplication, more & less, shapes, clocks, fractions, decimals, percentages, money... and then, for literacy... phonemes, initial letters, letter forming, spelling patterns, high frequency words, sight recognition, reading, listening, rhyming.... and there's so much more. Many useful teacher tools that are great for whiteboard work are to be found here too. The site isn't switch accessible and you need Flash Player to run the games. It's a fabulous bank of learning tools and makes everything just that little bit more fun... All games are designed, made by and © copyright 2005 of James Barrett. ta5ae 2006-04-28 07:14:11 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/learning_disability_information/se7en.html Information on the subject of Asperger Syndrome and other Autistic Spectrum related disorders, while at the same time helping to create more public awareness on this little known and talked about subject. ta5ae 2006-05-03 05:50:08 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/software_and_hardware/assistitwordtasks.html Thanks to the hard work Craig at Assist IT you'll find lots of FREE interactive curriculum resources on this link. Try picture matching with the Romans, or for older learners, a cloze exercise about mobile phone technology. This site has many other excellent resources too - definitely worth a look! ta5ae 2006-05-04 12:15:28 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/software_and_hardware/assistitnumbertasks.html Our thanks to Craig at Assist IT for supplying this link to some fabulous and FREE numeracy resources. Try your hand at times tables, easy sums and adding and subtracting. Simple, colourful resources that will be very useful for all that extra maths practice -and totally accessible with a mouse, keyboard, touch screen, switch (and onscreen keyboard), concept keyboard... brilliant. ta5ae 2006-05-04 12:19:31 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/software_and_hardware/assistitcrossword.html You can use this as a learning resource for Information Technology at Access Level 3 / Intermediate Level 1. If the clues are too difficult, you can edit them by clicking in the text clue/text box. Check out all the other fabulous resources for English and Maths under this link too. ta5ae 2006-05-04 12:21:29 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/learning_disability_information/differentworlds.html We are a group of parents, carers, friends and relatives with a common link. We all have personal experience of Aspergers Syndrome or other Autistic Spectrum Disorders. We meet monthly and invite ‘Guest Speakers’ along to the meetings. We have had visits from Social Services, the Local Education Authority, Alternative Therapists re. dietary advice etc. We have write ups, photos, poetry, diagnosis criteria, and much more on our Site, and we actively encourage both adults and children to write for us. ta5ae 2006-05-05 12:51:50 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/resources/parents_carers_and_professionals/meanduspy1.html 192 illustrations with educators notes, for use by educators young people or adults with moderate or severe learning difficulties. Illustrations can be printed individually for classroom use. No publisher ta5ae Copyright Me-and-Us Ltd; Illustrations David Gifford 2006-05-15 13:43:07 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/resources/parents_carers_and_professionals/meanduspy2.html A set of 192 new drawings to complement those in the renowned Picture Yourself. These illustrations cover six additional themes to those in Picture Yourself and similarly can be re-printed individually by educators of young people and adults with moderate to severe learning difficulties. Some of the drawings may be useful to help students with autistic spectrum disorder recognise subtle body language. No publisher ta5ae Copyright Me-and-Us Ltd; Illustrations David Gifford CD 2006-05-15 13:42:48 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/resources/parents_carers_and_professionals/chancetochoose.html Chance to Choose is a resource for educators working with people with learning disabilities. It consists of 73 activities which could create an SRE curriculum from Key Stages 1 and 2, through Key Stages 3 and 4 to young adults. No publisher ta5ae Copyright: Me-and-Us Ltd 2006-05-15 13:42:08 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/resources/people_with_learning_disabilities/whatshappening.html The University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, worked with 16 young people with learning disabilities to find out what makes them feel anxious or depressed. Using video and photo diaries the young people talked about how they felt. This DVD presents the experiences of three young people from this study. They talk about how their lives became difficult or unhappy and what helped them to feel better. The DVD is intended to help young people, families and practitioners to identify and learn from their experiences. The DVD is priced £5 (for young people and carers) or £15 (for professionals and organisations). No publisher ta5ae 2006-05-26 12:04:17 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/software_and_hardware/learn_mouse_skills.html A simple set of activities to help older users practice mouse skills such as clicking, double clicking and dragging. Bits can be played online, or you can download more activities if you wish. Our thanks to Chris Brett from the Holbrook Centre for Autism for telling us about this link. ta5ae 2006-07-03 05:47:28 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/fun_sites/dub_city_rockers.html This is perhaps the coolest activity we have on Check The Map and many thanks to Simon Judge for pointing us to it. Improve your mouse, interactive whiteboard and touch screen skills by choosing beats, screen changes and animations from this collection of dub beats. There's a vast choice and this will really motivate students to target, click and drag. Have fun. ta5ae 2006-07-03 11:16:43 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/commercial/accesskeys.html A directory of accessible websites to help people find what they need quickly. Users are invited to recommend sites and comment on the sites already listed. ta5ae 2006-07-12 06:46:31 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/software_and_hardware/wordbank.html A website helping people to understand difficult words and jargon. Also, a tool which can be used on your own website. ta5ae 2006-08-01 07:21:24 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/onlinecommunities/parentsofautism.html Designed as "self-help" group for parents of children, of any age, on the Autistic Spectrum. Unlike many similar groups this is run by parents of an autistic child. Anyone can join by request. Pleased be assured we will not allow ANY on-line bullying, swearing or other unsuitable behaviour ! ta5ae 2006-08-17 07:41:29 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/fun_sites/yap.html An interactive lifestyles website for young people designed by young volunteers with a learning disability. It has music, fashion, video clips and lots more. Yap is a website for all young people made by young volunteers with a learning disability. On this website you can see young people doing the things they like to do and there are some fun things you can do too. All the ideas and the things to do on this website came from the young people involved in making it. ta5ae 2006-08-17 08:18:50 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/fun_sites/jacksonpollock.html Thanks to Charlie Danger for telling us about this beautiful site. Use your mouse, headpointer, rollerball or joystick (or finger on a touch screen / whiteboard) to create the next masterpieces of the art world. To change colour click your mouse etc. This is a brilliantly simple program with no confusing buttons or distractions. Have fun. ta5ae 2006-08-17 08:21:23 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/commercial/communication4all.html A New SEN Resource Site, with lots of free downloads and practical product ideas. Includes sign language resources and visual presentations. ta5ae 2006-08-23 10:10:56 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/resources/parents_carers_and_professionals/communicationpassports.html These free resources are in pdf file format and can be saved to your computer and/or printed out. The passports are a way of describing a persons individuality and needs to anyone who works with them. Very useful where communication is limited, and can save a lot of frustration from both sides. It means you can know about a person quickly and give the correct support. ta5ae 2006-08-27 13:06:50 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/resources/parents_carers_and_professionals/ispeekschool.html ISPEEK at School has 1300 visual communication images most suited to situations in the home setting. Files are:- Templates Ispeek Card Maker Schedule Strips Behaviour Choose School Visits Certificate What’s the Matter ? Class Timetable Ready Made Files School day Community Images (Saved both as jpegs and as wmf files) 1. CURRICULUM 2. SENSORY 3. BEHAVIOUR 4. RESOURCES 5. TIME AND NUMBER 6. CONCEPTS 7. UNDERSTANDING 8. PLACES AND VISITS 9. INDEPENDENCE 10. SOCIAL SKILLS 11. TRANSITIONS 12. AROUND AND ABOUT 13. BREAK TIMES 14. WORKING 15. ACTIONS 16. PERSONAL CARE No publisher ta5ae Copyright Janet Dixon 2006 2006-08-27 13:34:56 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/resources/parents_carers_and_professionals/Ispeekhome.html ISPEEK at Home has 1300 visual communication images most suited to situations in the home setting. Files are:- Templates Ispeek Card Maker Schedule Strips Injection Hospital Dressing Feelings Meal Choices Where are you Hurting? Ready Made Files Doctor Hygiene Images (Saved both as jpegs and as wmf files) 1. FEELINGS 2. FACIAL EXPRESSIONS 3. PLEASE LISTEN 4. IN THE HOME 5. SAVOURY FOOD 6. SWEET FOOD 7. DRINKS 8. PACKAGING 9. SHOPPING 10. COOKING 11. HEALTH AND HYGIENE 12. HOLIDAYS - VACATIONS 13. CLOTHES 14. LEISURE 15. PEOPLE 16. MEDICAL No publisher ta5ae Copyright Janet Dixon 2006 2006-08-27 13:32:20 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/learning_disability_information/cerebralpalsysource.html This site provides you with information and news on Cerebral Palsy and birth related injuries. It is a dependable one-stop site for persons looking to gain education, support and legal help. People who are diagnosed with, or are friends and relatives of people with Cerebral Palsy, need a community with trustworthy resources and a place to discuss anything from coping, to real day to day activities, get newsworthy medical updates, and more. ta5ae 2006-09-13 10:09:57 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/resources/parents_carers_and_professionals/transactive.html Trans-active is a project in which teenagers with and without severe learning disabilities work together. They use multimedia to explore and communicate choices they will have when they leave school. The project is about using and giving support, making plans, making friends and having fun. * Each Trans-active pack buys you * The teaching plans for all of the 8 “passport” units * The teaching resources for each unit * A video guide outlining the process * Educational computer games which support the “passport units” * A password protected site for each group which enables you to make on-line passports for young people * Training to enable you to begin Trans-active with your group. No publisher ta5ae MENCAP 2006-09-21 12:58:01 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/learning_disability_information/livingwithcp.html A site set up to share the owner's experiences of living with Cerebral Palsy and Scoliosis with other people. ta5ae 2006-09-21 13:14:45 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/commercial/chelltune.html Sign Language resources for all babies and children. ta5ae 2006-10-03 07:51:04 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/learning_disability_information/reboundtherapy.html The website for rebound therapy. Rebound therapy is the phrase used to describe special needs trampolining; the use of trampolines in providing therapeutic exercise and recreation for people with a wide range of special needs. Participants range from mild to severe physical disabilities to mild to profound and multiple learning disabilities. Prior to the formation of Rebound Therapy dot Org, very little published information was available for rebound therapy or special needs trampolining. However the forum now provides an opportunity for those involved to publish and share their experience and for students to find and request information. ta5ae 2006-10-07 05:49:13 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/onlinecommunities/SPDprofessionalsforum.html The SPD Professionals Forum aims to promote professional multi disciplinary communication in discussion and support of children diagnosed with Semantic Pragmatic Disorder, a language communication disorder commonly found in children with Autism. ta5ae 2006-10-21 08:49:32 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/learning_disability_information/Axistive.html Offers free news, articles, product reviews and all product and vendor information of assistive technology devices. ta5ae 2006-10-21 09:02:08 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/resources/parents_carers_and_professionals/independent_tt.html The Independent Travel Training Programme provides organisations, particularly those involved in learning disabilities, with a complete training package that addresses the issue of independent travel. It aims to increase the choices available to both organisations and end service users with regard to transport issues. This practical-based programme has been developed for any individual with low literacy levels who has limited independent travel skills and road safety awareness. It is highly pictorial and, because of the low literacy levels required, is ideal for use with learning disabled individuals. It is 100% trainer led and uses pictures, animations and sounds to support its teaching and make it fun to use and easy to understand. Your organisation can access the Independent Travel Training and Road Safety Awareness programme for your clients by sending staff to a "Training for Trainers" course, which is run at locations throughout Northern Ireland and the UK. No publisher ta5ae Intellectual property of New Horizons Partnership 2006-11-11 11:28:29 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/fun_sites/askability.html The Askability website was inspired by The Children's Society Solihull branch, after watching children at their project misunderstand the news about the war in Iraq. They decided that there was a need for a website which was presented entirely in symbol to enable children with learning disabilities to become informed about ongoing current affairs and also create a central forum for children to express their views and opinions. ta5ae 2007-07-14 16:48:36 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/commercial/eiconsulting.html EI Consulting is an organisation which works with people who are autistic or have learning disabilities. Our services are available to anyone but we are particularly skilled and keen to work with people with complex needs. Our crisis support skills mean we are able to work with people who are challenging or may be putting their lifestyle at risk because of this. Our aim is to improve the quality of support available to people and the experience people have of being supported. We see the role of emotional intelligence as crucial in this aim. Please visit our website for current events and contributing to our Community Forum. ta5ae 2006-12-08 05:13:33 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/charities/intelligentgiving.html Just type "Learning Disability" in the search field for an independent guide to charities aimed at users and supporters. Provides detailed, opinionated overviews of 500+ charities and lists a further 1000. it also carries articles by charity experts, lists of award-winning charities, and much more. ta5ae 2006-12-12 03:48:25 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/fun_sites/reactivecolours.html Reactive Colours© provides an engaging, accessible computer environment for spontaneous imaginative play and learning, in which even the most anxious autistic individuals may relax and communicate. Click on 'Gallery' to play online with your mouse/touch screen or set switch box settings to left mouse click. As an Internet based research project Reactive Colours© aims to provide a software interface through which individuals with autistic spectrum differences and learning disabilities can be encouraged to use computers, and through which they can develop mouse, keyboard, programming and screen skills. This is a truly superb and ground breaking project. Try it for yourself today. ta5ae 2006-12-13 07:26:43 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/learning_disability_information/ableize.html UK disability and health web directory. Site includes advice, information, disabled goods, facilities and services with comprehensive listings of specific disabilities and children's section also access issues, education and the arts. ta5ae 2007-01-28 15:51:49 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/resources/parents_carers_and_professionals/CBF%20Injurious%20Behaviour Professors Chris Oliver and Glynis Murphy, the UK's leading authorities on self-injurious behaviour, join forces to offer clear and practical information and advice to families caring for individuals with severe learning disabilities. In this 45 minute video/DVD you will also meet Laura and Tobias, learn how their self-injurious behaviour has affected their lives and the lives of their families, and how some simple, straightforward steps can help to reduce self-injurious behaviour. The video/DVD emphasizes understanding the causes and the function of the self injurious behaviour, and addresses issues such as the use of medication and protective devices. No publisher ta5ae 2007-03-22 15:10:07 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/fun_sites/ninjaballoons A great game for introducing the mouse or learning to press and hold a switch with a partner. Instructions are on the site so I won't go into them here. Needless to say it's easy to play with a nice colourful screen and tons of levels. Have fun. ta5ae 2007-08-08 07:16:49 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/commercial/Sex%20and%20Relationships%20Education%20Resources Jemma and Jack Talk about Sex is available as a 130 slide PowerPoint presentation, PDF or a spiral bound pack. The Education Pack includes 2 puppets (Ethnic origins and sex can be chosen). Jemma and Jack Talk about Sex focuses on the emotions involved in building a relationship. Simplistic line drawings depict the physical side of Jemma and Jack’s relationship and the decision making process involved at each stage. ta5ae 2007-08-15 18:00:10 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/fun_sites/loomy An accessible portal for people with learning disabilities. This site makes surfing the web easier, with clear graphics, accessible layouts and speech feedback. Thanks to Martin for recommending this site so we could share it on Check The Map ta5ae 2007-10-17 16:06:53 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/servicesabroad/frenchexperience.html French EXPERIENCE holidays, is a holiday for adults with a learning difficulty and their support worker or families. Situated at the northern edge of the Dordogne bordering, Charente, enjoying a fantastic blend of traditional French culture and great weather. We understand the meaning of being an individual and therefore invite all clients to give us their special requirements prior to arrival, so we can offer a unique experience. Full board which includes all excursions and personal guide, airport or train station transfers. ta5ae 2007-10-17 16:26:43 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/resources/people_with_learning_disabilities/keystonescreen KeyStone ScreenSpeaker is a voice output screen reader program designed for use by individuals who are blind or have low vision or dyslexia or other learning disabilities. Users can hear their work being spoken back while the text is being typed or dictated using voice recognition software (not included). Any mistakes can be found and corrected using spelling and homophone checkers. Any amount of the text can be read back at any time. Text can be read by character, word, line, sentence, paragraph, or as a complete document, either during the document's creation, or upon its completion, and under control of the mouse, numeric keypad, cursor keys, or voice command. The program announces the identity of icons, menu items, buttons, and dialog boxes, and provides audible and on-screen help. The computer-generated voice and the amount of information spoken can be customized at any time. The program works directly with Dragon NaturallySpeaking and DragonDictate voice recognition software from Nuance and Word 97 and later word processing software from Microsoft (programs not included). The program can guide users through the enrolment process in Dragon voice recognition software, providing extra training stories and reading out scripts in small phrases for the user to repeat. Used with Microsoft Word, the program speaks out each character, word and/or sentence as soon as it is typed, and announces when a spelling mistake or homophone is produced and speaks alternative spellings when the user needs to inspect them. A hot-line telephone and e-mail service is available to support users and teachers. No publisher ta5ae words worldwide 2007-10-21 16:22:59 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/resources/people_with_learning_disabilities/keystone KeySpell Ellipsis is a voice output spelling utility designed for use by individuals with learning disabilities. This spelling aid supplements the spell checkers in programs such as Microsoft Word. It has a comprehensive dictionary of 350,000 words, and can be set for specific levels of difficulty or areas of interest. For example, an inexperienced writer could reduce the number of suggestions produced by choosing the Junior dictionary, while a doctor could narrow the range of suggestions by choosing the Medical dictionary. To help users select the correct word, thesaurus-type alternatives are provided, as are examples of the word used in context, in a meaningful sentence. The program has a direct link to recent versions of Microsoft Word (97 or later) and Dragon NaturallySpeaking (version 5 or later), allowing users of those program to find the correct spelling with the spelling utility program and transfer the results back with a single keystroke, replacing the original. The utility can also scan Microsoft Word documents for spelling errors and homophones (which are highlighted as such). The checking mechanism provides suggestions based on phonetic similarity to entered word(s), so the correct word can be produced from even complex misspellings. Searches can also be conducted based on the beginning or the end of the word according to the preference of the user. For those with dyslexia, the program can even supply correct spellings "elephant" can still be found when misspelled with a consonant as "lefant" The program incorporates voice synthesis technology from Nuance that allows selected text to be read aloud as it appears on the screen. No publisher ta5ae words worldwide 2007-10-21 16:22:58 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/resources/people_with_learning_disabilities/keystone%20speechmaster KeyStone SpeechMaster is a voice input text editor program and voice output screen reader program and spell check utility designed for use by individuals with learning disabilities. The system integrates voice recognition technology (Dragon NaturallySpeaking Professional software; see separate entry) with a text-to-speech screen reader (KeyStone ScreenSpeaker) and a spelling and homophone checker. The program reads enrolment scripts in small phrases for the user to repeat, making it unnecessary for users to read a single word in order to set up voice input. For voice input, the user dictates into a microphone attached to a computer. Speech is converted into text and displayed on the screen using Microsoft Word. The program then speaks out the text in its own clear computer-generated voice so that the user can determine whether the correct words have been displayed. When a correction is needed, the program speaks the displayed alternatives. If the correct text is heard among the options, it can be chosen with a voice command like "Choose 3." The program's spelling and homophone checking functions and screen reader can be started as dictation proceeds, or on completion. Where questions arise, detailed help is supplied both on-screen and audibly. A hot-line telephone and e-mail service is also available. No publisher ta5ae 2007-10-21 16:22:59 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/resources/people_with_learning_disabilities/keystoneTUTOR KeyStone Tutor has been designed for those who find it daunting to use speech recognition with a word processor. A simple incentive scheme encourages users to improve their enunciation which leads to higher recognition performance and a greater success rate in using this technology No publisher ta5ae 2007-10-21 16:22:59 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/software_and_hardware/learnwithleo.html Learn With Leo has computer based learning resources for primary and pupils with special needs. Programs can be used on a P.C. or with an interactive whiteboard. This site has free trial downloads for software games centered around shapes, the weather, animals and colours. ta5ae 2007-10-31 16:37:31 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/commercial/kyliejarvis.html Kylie is a woman with Down's Syndrome who wants to be famous. She has given many talks and acts as an accessible communications consultant for groups such as Clear. Look at Kylie's website for more details on her achievements to date and how she could help your group or organisation. ta5ae 2007-10-31 17:04:50 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/commercial/rem.html Largest independent distributor of special needs educational resources for teachers and parents, pre-school to FE level ta5ae 2007-10-31 17:16:45 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/software_and_hardware/dasher.html This is a new type of text input software. Dasher can be driven by a trackerball, joystick, touchscreen, head/foot mouse, eye tracker... anything that takes the role of a mouse. It allows users to record text quickly and intuitively, giving a completely hands-free writing system. For more information, a demonstration and free download, visit the website. ta5ae 2007-10-31 17:30:27 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/learning_disability_information/Talkingpoint.html If you are a parent or family member of a child, in Parent Point you will find vital information on how to support your child's communication, or if your child has a communication disability, you will find out how you can support them. Information, FAQs and resources for professionals that work with children with communication disability. ta5ae 2007-10-31 17:38:28 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/software_and_hardware/babymouse An excellent and much sought after bit of freeware. Turn off the right mouse click for any length of time and help a student use the mouse more effectively. The Pro version also allows you to keep the mouse within a defined area of the screen, as well as turn off any/all of the mouse buttons (right/left/scroll), and disable different keys on the keyboard, number pad and special keys... no more random clicking or unwanted key presses - genius! Thanks to Claire Barnes at Willow Dene school for telling us about this. ta5ae 2007-11-29 16:05:18 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/fun_sites/roythezebra Free interactive reading games, perfect for using with your interactive whiteboard or on a computer. Words that rhyme, full stops, capital letters, high frequency words and much more...thanks to Suzanne Sear of Charlton School for spreading the word about this very useful and entertaining freebie. ta5ae 2007-11-29 16:15:54 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/software_and_hardware/christmasresources Designed for the Interactive Whiteboard, this is a collection of Christmas themed letter formation activities. There is also a Christmas story and Christmas countdown Advent calendar. All download as PowerPoint resources. Our thanks to Kathryn Stowell of Charlton School for spreading news of this seasonal goody. ta5ae 2007-11-29 16:25:24 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/software_and_hardware/tuxpaint Tux Paint is a free, award-winning drawing program for children ages 3 to 12 (key stages 1 & 2). It combines an easy-to-use interface, fun sound effects, and an encouraging cartoon mascot who guides children as they use the program. Recommended to Check the Map by Deborah Moppett of Harlow Fields School. ta5ae 2007-11-29 16:38:09 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/fun_sites/mrpicassohead We absolutely love this - create your own Picasso portrait by dragging and dropping with a mouse, touch screen or IWB. Then authentically sign your masterpiece. Massive thanks to Mandy Griffin of Southview School for sourcing this. ta5ae 2007-11-29 16:44:51 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/fun_sites/Artpad This needs a little intervention to get going but is accessible enough to warrant a link here. Choose different sizes of paintbrush, text or paint bucket splodge to create your own beautiful piece of art with a mouse. Helps to brush up (sorry) on your dragging and clicking skills. If you like this, try Art Rage and Jackson Pollock Art, both linked to Check The Map. More thanks to Mandy at Southview School for another gem. ta5ae 2007-11-29 17:02:41 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/fun_sites/somethingspecial To accompany the popular CBeebies TV show, you'll find a lot of interactive games, stories, signs, songs and clips of Mr Tumble to enjoy. A colourful and entertaining resource, perfect for learning early signs and ICT skills. ta5ae 2007-11-29 17:20:36 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/software_and_hardware/Typing%20Fun A free download for a simple typing program. Very easy to use, just click the download button on the bottom of the page. This has music and cartoons to motivate, and three different levels to sustain practice. Enjoy. ta5ae 2008-01-25 10:26:41 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/resources/people_with_learning_disabilities/manageemotions.html This interactive course will give teenagers a variety of situational strategies designed to help them to recognise and acknowledge their emotions and to create friendships. Aimed at those who may find social and friendship situations difficult. No publisher imogen Copyright rests with Raising Horizons Ltd 2009-10-21 01:51:59 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/learning_disability_information/movingon.html Webpages of the Transition Steering Group (aka Moving On Group) of the Learning Disability Partnership Board in Hertfordshire. "We want these pages to be a place for young people, parents and carers and the professionals who work with them to learn more about transition. Over time we hope to provide resources, share experiences and create a guide to the material available on transition, both online and in print." imogen 2008-02-02 17:53:00 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/fun_sites/helpkidzlearn.html HelpKidzLearn is a collection of free software for young children and those with learning difficulties to play online. Tessa 2008-05-07 10:20:22 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/servicesabroad/supported-holidays-antequera.html Supported Holidays Antequera provide holidays in Spain for people with disabilities. We are based in Antequera to the North of the Costa Del Sol, our fully inclusive package is tailored to meet the needs of the individual and includes return flights, accommodation in our family home or a separate self catering villa, all meals, all activities, all evenings out, 24 hour care and support if needed plus many other things. You choose where you want to go, what you want to do and when you want to do it, it's your holiday. Tessa 2008-05-07 17:00:38 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/software_and_hardware/candle-downloads.html Resources and guidance booklets Tessa 2008-05-08 17:28:58 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/charities/seeability Website information resource on aspects of learning disability and sensory impairment. imogen 2008-06-19 05:54:17 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/commercial/abcmobility ABC Mobility is a small business, offering a wide range of mobility products and services including scooters, wheelchairs, walking aids, bathing aids, chairs and beds to elderly people and people with disabilities throughout the Midlands imogen 2008-06-19 05:58:18 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/woodlandsICTgames This is a lovely collection of well thought out, educational games sorted by category: maths, literacy, science, memory and logic. Students will need mouse or touch screen access for most games, though of course you can set switches to replicate mouse clicks. Useful finds include Magnetic Letters, for phonics and Alien Hangman is a little addictive. This is a great site, recommended to Check The Map by Mary Dean. imogen 2008-06-27 07:20:33 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/charities/uhad2bthere Through this site I hope to bring together a searchable database of Charities, Organisations, Companies and Service Providers from all around the UK, to help disabled people, their families and health care providers, find just the right information and make contact with the people who can help them the most whatever their needs or aspirations. imogen 2008-07-12 13:47:18 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/resources/parents_carers_and_professionals/learning-disability-today.html The easy-to-read full colour magazine features a mix of feature articles, news, comment and research written by and for people working in the learning disability field. It also includes real life case studies from people with learning disability explaining how the service they receive has impacted on their life. No publisher Tessa © Pavilion Publishing (Brighton) Ltd 2008-07-16 19:37:35 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/servicesabroad/tourism-for-all.html or for those who may need support for their mental health condition. Tourism for All UK is a national charity dedicated to standards of world class tourism which are welcoming to all. Visit the website for a list of holiday companies. Tessa 2008-08-07 04:02:17 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/software_and_hardware/scratch This is a highly recommended free download for simple programming, drawing, interactive animations etc suitable for all ages. You can make personalised switch programs full of sound and pictures that are very motivating. Used by visitors to Check The Map for students working at P-Levels 8 and above. Accessible by every means and very addictive. Many thanks to Chrissie Wilson, Chilworth House School for the recommendation. imogen 2008-09-16 09:48:12 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/software_and_hardware/dwellclick This is an excellent and simple dwell clicker. Ideal for those who can operate the mouse pointer, but not the buttons. For example, users of a head mouse such as the Smart NAV can use this software to control mouse operated Windows programs. You can: * specify the size of the target for users who cannot hold the pointer in one place. * change the length of time for a dwell to be accepted * turn sounds on or off * move the dwell clicker window around the screen imogen 2008-10-23 06:14:19 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/charities/fas Awareness’ Support, Education, Research of Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders provides informed aspects and understanding of early interventions for parents and all professionals and Nation wide support network. imogen 2008-11-03 08:59:58 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/charities/ldonline website offering news, information and resources imogen 2008-11-03 09:02:48 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/charities/diseuropa DisEuropa is a portal and community for disabled people throughout Europe. Here you can exchange ideas, meet new people and generally see what's going on in Europe imogen 2008-11-03 09:05:46 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/resources/parents_carers_and_professionals/ldtoday No publisher imogen © Pavilion Publishing (Brighton) Ltd 2008-11-03 09:14:16 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/software_and_hardware/zac%20browser ZAC is the first web browser developed specifically for children with autism, and autism spectrum disorders such as Asperger syndrome, pervasive developmental disorders (PDD), and PDD-NOS. We have made this browser for the children - for their enjoyment, enrichment, and freedom. Children touch it, use it, play it, interact with it, and experience independence through ZAC. Thank you to Mart Pistorius for finding and recommending this little gem on the web. imogen 2008-11-03 09:31:18 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/resources/people_with_learning_disabilities/cbt-system-for-adhd-autism-relax-skills How well does your child cope? When children encounter a stressful situation, it’s often difficult for them to cope. Dr Jones' Animal Agentz is a fun computer-based learning tool in which children interact with a family of bright and colourful animal characters who teach them important coping skills to help them manage stressful situations. New parenting skill for all issues. No publisher drjonesaa Animal Agentz Ltd A.R.R. 2008-12-13 09:11:55 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/learning_disability_information/explore-adult-learning.html ExploreAdultLearning a unique reference point on learning a new skill as an adult. Including expert advice on Adult Dyslexia. Tessa 2008-12-13 08:50:00 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/software_and_hardware/ginger-software.html Ginger Software developed a ground breaking assistive software for people with Dyslexia and other learning difficulties. The software uses context to correct, with the click of a button, whole sentences containing misused words and multiple severe spelling mistakes. Tessa 2008-12-13 13:24:01 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/software_and_hardware/ghotit.html Ghotit offers unique writing and reading online services for people with dyslexia, dysgraphia or people who are not native-English speakers. Tessa 2008-12-19 07:18:03 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/resources/parents_carers_and_professionals/picture-library-cdrom.html Say It Works have produced an easy to use CDrom with over 900 colour pictures that cover many subjects such as: Independent and supported living, planning, advocacy, socialising, transport, alcohol and drug awareness, jobs and work and much more. They’re used by individuals and groups to improve general communication, person centred plans, leaflets, letters, annual reports, minutes of meetings, booklets, websites, speech & language therapy and education. Add your own words or not depending on your client or learners' needs. Ideal for use with adults and older teenagers. See our pictures at www.sayitworks.co.uk and find out how to buy. No publisher Tessa Terms and conditions visit http://www.sayitworks.co.uk/terms.asp#QAs 2009-02-22 19:33:48 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/learning_disability_information/counselling-directory.html This website is a support network of UK counsellors and psychotherapists Tessa 2009-02-19 10:31:06 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/software_and_hardware/fx-software.html Free Assistive Software Tessa 2009-03-12 12:57:56 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/software_and_hardware/enormouse.html The biggest mouse cursor (6 x 3.5cm) available on the web, and it's free! Made by Chris Stringfellow for anyone with difficulty tracking the mouse pointer. This is an excellent download - you'll find it by clicking the link and scrolling to the bottom of the page. You can change the colour once it's loaded by right clicking the icon in the task bar. If you like it, be kind enough to email Chris and tell him. imogen 2009-03-17 06:00:03 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/fun_sites/maninthedark.html Weird and addictive, use your mouse / touch screen to move and watch the man loop and twist around the screen. Clicking once with the mouse begins a repeating animated sequence of more and more men, clicking again returns you to just one. Excellent for early mouse skills, group work.. Thanks very much to Trish and Gill for finding this oddity. imogen 2009-04-28 04:28:44 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/fun_sites/newsround.html The BBC have launched an accessible newsreader, providing access to the content from the BBC Newsround website to single switch users. The site aims to provide some good quality regularly updated and age-appropriate content to this audience, particularly as it is exactly the same content that is available to everyone else. Key features are a highly simplified scanning interface, fully voiced text, and being fully configurable, including fonts and colour-schemes. Although designed primarily for switch users it will also hopefully be of benefit as a teaching aid for people who may have learning or cognitive difficulties, and people on the autistic spectrum in particular, due to things like the simplified interface, simultaneous text & speech, and connection with real-world events. imogen 2009-05-18 05:18:54 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/software_and_hardware/cooliris.html The fastest way to browse photos and videos, with no text and easy targetted access. This is a very useful and free download which is ideal for those who love to access You Tube/ Face Book and other videos and photos but find navigation and text links difficult. Excellent for touch screens, and practicing holding and draggin with the mouse. It's customisable too, so you can see a few or lots of links at once according to ability. You can read about how it's been used with people with learning disabilities on the Big Tree Blog (also linked to Check The Map). Happy browsing :) imogen 2009-05-19 05:31:46 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/fun_sites/earlymouse.html This is brilliant! Practice simple mouse or touch screen movements and be rewarded by colour and a choice of sound effects or catchy music. If you know anyone of any age who is struggling to use a mouse, you must check out this link. Thanks very much to the Help Kidz Learn team at Inclusive. NB, this also works in conjunction with EnorMouse (also linked to Check The Map) if the intended player has a visual impairment. imogen 2009-05-20 07:32:24 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/fun_sites/zefrank.html Lots of wonderful interactive ‘toys’, many at simple cause and effect level Tessa 2009-05-23 10:35:49 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/fun_sites/games-of-precision.html Switch / IWB / Keyboard / Mouse timing games Tessa 2009-05-23 11:11:42 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/fun_sites/sensory-world.html Freely available interactive website designed especially for adults with learning disabilities, set around a virtual house. Visit the kitchen and learn about Health and Safety, Nutrition and Hygiene. Go into the Music Room and create your own band or orchestra. Take a look at the sensory room and choose your own themes for the bubble tubes, glitter ball, star mat etc. A Money Manager will also help you keep track on your finances. Watch this site, as it is currently in the second phase of development which will see the addition of a sensory garden amongst other elements. Tessa 2009-05-23 11:19:26 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/software_and_hardware/mathsbuddy-website.html Helping Children of all abilities become better and more confident in maths - primary level Tessa 2009-05-26 20:28:31 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/software_and_hardware/lefthandedpointer.html Adding to the brilliant range of freebies under this link, you'll find a range of big, bold left mouse pointers (i.e. pointing to the right). Use these with the left-handed mouse configuration (swop the buttons under the control panel mouse settings in Windows). Thanks again to Chris Stringfellow for a wonderful free download. imogen 2009-06-10 04:49:26 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/resources/people_with_learning_disabilities/margaret%20moran The 'Speak Your Mind' guide is a unique and versatile visual aid. Its structure encourages the exchange of information, translates thoughts into actions, and not least helps reduce some frustration felt by those whose minds are still active but who are unable to speak or who have other communication difficulties. Each page has words and pictures relevant to everyday life and much more... To use by the individual, their family and friends, professionals in Care/Nursing and Residential Homes, Care in the Community Providers,Hospitals and Hospices. It was design originally to help my Dad and the family to include him in conversations when he lost his speech through a Stroke. Cost: £19.50 all inclusive (10+ £16) No publisher mmoran 2009-06-15 03:01:48 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/learning_disability_information/seeability.html Web site information resource on aspects of learning disability and sensory impairment. Tessa 2009-06-16 16:55:22 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/commercial/mini-miracles.html A line of adaptive clothing for children and adults with special needs. Based in Canada with delivery worldwide. Tessa 2009-06-16 18:08:21 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/Members/imogen/thehesleygroup This service has moved. Please use the link below. Tessa 2009-08-12 23:52:01 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/learning_disability_information/cpdirectory An online directory listing thousands of counsellors and psychotherapists in the UK and Ireland. Searchable on name and location. Tessa 2009-08-13 00:00:16 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/learning_disability_information/advocate-4-health Advocate 4 Health are a group of people with a learning disability. The Advocate 4 Health project covers, Bexley, Bromley, Croydon, Greenwich, Sutton and Wandsworth. The website is designed for people with a learning disability to access easy to understand health information. It is also a place where service providers in the 6 boroughs can advertise their details and events Tessa 2009-08-16 19:28:07 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/resources/people_with_learning_disabilities/your-school-day The target user age of this courseware is 5-10 years old and takes them through the school day - ranging from getting ready for school, recognising “danger zones” when travelling to school, recognising faces, working with others and interactive Games. No publisher Tessa Copyright rests with Raising Horizons Ltd 2009-10-21 02:02:16 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/resources/people_with_learning_disabilities/travel-with-me Travel with Me creates opportunities to develop strategies to make your journeys successful!. There are over 50 learning topics such as planning a journey, learning foreign language phrases. No publisher Tessa Copyright rests with Raising Horizons Ltd 2009-10-21 02:11:28 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/servicesabroad/sunchine-supported-holidays Sunshine Supported Holidays is a private company offering 24hr supported holidays for guests with learning disabilities, mental illness, disabled people and the elderly on the Costa del Sol, Spain. Our aim is to promote and encourage independence and enable lasting new friendships. We understand how important choice and control is to any person and we are here to ensure you have a holiday to remember. You will receive a warm welcome from all our trained and qualified staff who are always ready to join in the fun. Whether you decide to fill your days and evenings with fun packed activities or of course, just relax, unwind and enjoy the sunshine by the pool - the choice will always be yours. Please visit our website www.sunshine-supported-holidays.com for more information. Tessa 2009-11-09 18:20:39 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/learning_disability_information/hypnotherapy-directory This website is a support network of UK hypnotherapists, with information on their training and experience, areas of hypnotherapy, fees and contact details. This service is free, confidential and easy to use. The link below shows results for hypnotherapists working with those with Disabilities. Tessa 2009-12-02 23:11:27 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/software_and_hardware/Strange%20Attractors This is weird, and excellent. Single switch presses are all that's required (mimicks space bar). The developers say: Strange Attractors is an experimental, action-puzzler in which the player navigates through a variety of bizarre worlds by controlling the forces of gravity using an elegant and unique interface. Check The Map says: You could use this with someone building cause and effect, right up to someone understanding timing, scoring and more. It's a lot of fun. Try it. imogen 2009-11-18 15:03:25 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/fun_sites/oneswitch There are soooooooo many excellent games here, each with their own description, that it would be crazy to list them all again on Check The Map, just click the link and read through. Here you'll find such retro remakes as Frogger and Whack-A-Mole, alongside puzzles, timing games, shoot-em-ups and more. We highly recommend this site for single, two switch and two player games. imogen 2009-11-18 15:08:06 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/software_and_hardware/Tux%20Typing Another recommendation to add to the growing number of free touch typing games online. imogen 2009-11-18 15:24:26 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/software_and_hardware/dynamo-maths Dynamo Maths is a three stage programme that addresses the needs of children who are dyscalculic or struggling with maths. It develops an intuitive grasp of number and number relationships using audio and visual stimuli. The programme supports the research that indicates that there may be specific areas such as working memory impairments or core deficits in acquiring these early vital mathematical skills. Dynamo Maths supports the thinking process of children struggling with maths and has drawn extensively from research on how the brain learns maths. Tessa 2009-11-19 21:00:16 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/software_and_hardware/intensive-interaction-web-resources Intensive Interaction is a practical approach to interacting with people with severe or profound and multiple learning disabilities and/or autism. There is nothing difficult or expert about Intensive Interaction, it is a very practical approach to communication and socialising with people who do not find it easy communicating or being social. Visit the website for further information downloads and links provided by Leeds Partnerships NHS Trust firthg 2010-01-05 04:06:57 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/learning_disability_information/SpecialSchool This site was created to help teachers, parents and professionals understand the workings of a Special School for Children with Severe and Profound Learning Difficulties. The examples are taken from schools in Northern Ireland although the approaches may be common to Special schools in other areas. imogen 2010-02-10 13:52:43 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/fun_sites/flowergarden Beautiful mouse/ touch screen / Smart Board / Plasma screen practise. Create your own flower garden! Thanks to Trish for recommending this to Check The Map. imogen 2010-03-05 15:10:59 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/learning_disability_information/comunication_passports What are Communication Passports? Find out why they important and why you should use them. How do I make a Passport? Resources for planning and producing a Passport. Where can I get training and support? Several courses on Passports are available from CALL Scotland. An excellent site that will tell you all you need to get started and develop useful, personal communication tools. imogen 2010-03-09 18:24:52 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/resources/parents_carers_and_professionals/literacy-three-bears SEN Assist 'The Three Bears': an interactive story CDRom for SEN students. * Language is taken from the N.C first 100 H/F words. * The writing is animated with associated symbols (ideal for visual learners such as those with ASDs') * Suitable for use on IWB and PC's. * 24 games: matching, sequencing, spelling, comprehension, prepositions and pronouns, making P Levels easier to assess. * 4 different ability levels. * 6 activities in a row to get an individual certificate. * Activities and work systems link with TEACCH. * SEN Assist aims to make an individual education a realistic expectation. No publisher Tessa SEN Assist 2010-03-19 04:01:22 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/commercial/disability-disabled A website designed for children and adults who have impaired mobility or movement and to help in giving you what you need when you need it. Our aim is to make it as easy as possible for you to order the goods you need and get them to you as quickly as possible. Tessa 2010-06-09 15:08:43 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/learning_disability_information/tardive-dyskinesia Tardive Dyskinesia (TD) is a movement disorder caused by Reglan and other prescription medications. Tardive Dyskinesia Center offers comprehensive and up-to-date information on TD and the medications that cause this disorder. Tessa 2010-06-29 20:43:24 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/software_and_hardware/ClickSpecialED Full of FREE resources, excellent materials and a brilliant example of how the web can be used to connect people, ideas and resources for our community. While its focus is on the other side of the world much of the content is relevant to everybody. Thanks to Sally Paveley for suggesting this site. imogen 2010-07-10 11:51:14 http://www.checkthemap.org.uk/links/servicesabroad/perfect-properties-nerja - Special Needs Holidays in Spain Stay in a beautiful apartment in Nerja near Malaga with sunny private garden, and receive care to suit your personal special needs or disabilities from our qualified Carers 24 hours a day. Jasmine Care Holidays provide tailor made breaks for adults requiring post operative care, those who are disabled or wheelchair bound, and even to the elderly looking for a little extra help. Relax in beautiful warm surroundings, have your meals home cooked, and visit the local tourist attractions if you wish, all with the reassurance of having your personal 24 hour care from qualified Carers. Tessa 2010-09-10 03:48:41