Assistive Technology (AT) Resources

Progressive Pediatric Therapy • June 29, 2016
A shelf filled with a variety of electronic devices
(FAAST Inc., 2016)

Children with special needs or other disabilities require assistive technology (AT) such as equipment, software, or product systems that would can assist them in all aspects of daily living such as walking, feeding, or communicating. This specialized AT can be very costly for families. Here are some websites and resources for additional information and used equipment for sale or loan:

The Florida Alliance for Assistive Services and Technology, Inc. serves Floridians with disabilities by providing free access to information, referral services, educational programs, and publications in accessible formats on topics such as disability rights, laws, and policies. They also provide assistive technology (AT) device loans as well as funding opportunities for AT. With loans, you can test drive the equipment or software prior to committing to buying one. They also have a new online system where you can find new or used AT equipment or free or at a reduced price. Visit  https://www.faast.org / for location information.

Facebook is another great resource regarding AT as well as groups for the resale of new or used equipment. Search for Facebook groups that may relate to your child’s disability or disorders. These social networks assist in providing resources, information, and a support community to ask questions regarding a variety of topics. Facebook also has groups geared towards the resale of gently used or new equipment. For example the group “special needs gently used medical equipment for sale” is a group in which the community can post different medical equipment that is for sale. Other groups exist for specific regions of Florida or the country. Just search general terms such as: special needs, medical equipment.

Lastly, check out our website  www.ppt4kids.com  and click “New Patients” for a list of pediatric partners in our community. This list contains many different vendors with whom we collaborate with for medical and therapy equipment. You can also contact us to schedule an  appointment at one of our wheelchair/adaptive equipment clinics to get evaluated, measured, and fitted  with wide range of adaptive equipment, including complex seating, custom molded seating, power  wheelchairs, and alternative access methods for power mobility such as use of head arrays, touch pads, etc.

The post Assistive Technology (AT) Resources appeared first on PPT4Kids.

What Approaches Are Used in Feeding Therapy? 5 Powerful Methods That Support Your Child’s Mealtime Success

By Aimee Brueck • October 10, 2025
At Progressive Pediatric Therapy, we know that every child’s feeding journey is unique. Some children may struggle with sensory issues, oral motor delays, or behavioral challenges that affect how they eat. That’s why feeding therapy isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution, instead it involves a blend of specialized approaches tailored to each child’s specific needs.

Top Shoes for Kids 2025 - Recommended by Pediatric Physical Therapists

By Aimee Brueck • September 18, 2025
Choosing the right pair of shoes for your child isn’t just about style, it’s about supporting their growing feet with the stability, comfort, and structure they need. Whether your child has orthotic needs, sensory sensitivities, or simply needs reliable footwear for school and play, finding pediatric therapist-recommended shoes can make all the difference.

What is ARFID?

By Aimee Brueck • August 25, 2025
This is a lesser-known eating disorder compared to anorexia or bulimia. It is known by its English acronym ARFID (Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder). ARFID is characterized by very limited eating, either due to avoidance of certain tastes, textures, colors, smells, or an intense fear of the consequences of eating (such as choking or vomiting). ARFID is not related to body image or a desire to lose weight. ARFID affects the child’s social life—it’s not simply a phase of being a “picky eater.”

¿Qué es el ARFID?

By Aimee Brueck • August 25, 2025
Esto es un trastorno menos conocido como la anorexia o la bulimia. Esto es conocido por sus siglas en inglés como ARFID (Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder). El ARFID es caracterizado por una alimentación muy limitada, ya sea por la evitación de ciertos sabores, texturas, colores, olores o por un miedo intenso a las consecuencias de comer (como atragantarse o vomitar). ARFID no está relacionado con la imagen corporal ni el deseo de adelgazar. EL ARFID afecta la vida social del niño, no es simplemente una etapa de "comer selectivo"

Supporting Growth with Turtle Bracing: Custom Orthotic Care for Kids

By Aimee Brueck • August 7, 2025
Children grow quickly, and with that growth come unique physical needs. Whether it’s posture, mobility, or muscle support, some children benefit from an extra layer of help to move, play, and thrive confidently. At Progressive Pediatric Therapy, we offer Turtle Bracing : a lightweight, flexible orthotic solution designed to support growing bodies in motion
A child is sitting at a table drawing with a marker.

Crayons, Confidence & Kindergarten: Handwriting Without Tears Tips to Get Your Child Ready for School

July 31, 2025
July brings warm days, end-of-summer excitement, and for many families, the first signs of back-to-school prep. If your child is heading to kindergarten this fall, now is the perfect time to start building their confidence with handwriting. At Progressive Pediatric Therapy, we use the Handwriting Without Tears program to support early writers in a fun, low-pressure way that’s grounded in child development and occupational therapy expertise.

Handwriting Readiness: Helping Kids Start the School Year Strong

By Aimee Brueck • July 18, 2025
A new school year means fresh notebooks, sharpened pencils and a renewed focus on writing. But for many kids, handwriting isn’t just a subject, it’s a foundational skill that impacts how they learn, express ideas, and feel about school.
Two little girls are running on a basketball court.

Simple Backyard Games That Support Gross Motor Development

July 3, 2025
July brings long sunny days, school-free schedules, and endless opportunities for play, but for many families, it’s also a chance to focus on something essential: physical development through movement. Summer play isn’t just fun; it’s foundational. It helps children build strength, coordination, and confidence especially when it supports gross motor development .
A family is laying on a blanket in the grass reading a book.

Screen-Free Summer: Activities that Build Language, Strength, and Coordination

June 19, 2025
As the days get longer and the sun shines brighter, summer invites children to explore, play, and grow. But with screens so easily accessible, it can be tempting to turn to tablets or TVs for entertainment. At Progressive Pediatric Therapy, we believe summer is a golden opportunity to engage kids in meaningful, screen-free activities that support their development —in both body and mind.
A young boy is walking with a suitcase at an airport and giving a thumbs up.

How to Prepare Your Child with Sensory Challenges for Summer Travel

June 5, 2025
Summer is a season of sunshine, adventures, and unforgettable memories. But for families of children with sensory challenges, the thought of travel can also bring anxiety and overwhelm. At Progressive Pediatric Therapy, we believe every child deserves the chance to enjoy summer experiences, comfortably and confidently. With a little planning and the right support, travel can be not just manageable but truly enjoyable!