Tag Archives: Special Education

Assistive technology booth showcasing tools for classroom accessibility

Assistive Technology Solutions for Schools: Highlights from NYC AT Conference

Assistive Technology, , , , , ,

Therapro recently had the privilege of exhibiting at the 2025 New York City Public Schools Assistive Technology Conference in Brooklyn, NY. This event provided an excellent platform to showcase Therapro’s assistive technology solutions for schools, designed to enhance student independence and participation across various school activities.

Enhancing Grasp and Functional Use with The Functionalhand and EazyHolds

Attendees were particularly impressed by The Functionalhand and EazyHolds. These adaptive devices facilitate improved grasp for individuals with limited hand function. Demonstrations highlighted their versatility in enabling students to hold items such as paintbrushes in art class, drumsticks in music sessions, pencils during lessons, and utensils at mealtimes. Combining The Functionalhand with EazyHolds further amplifies their utility, promoting greater independence in daily school activities.

Empowering Classroom Engagement with Switch-Adapted Tools

The PowerLink 4 Control Unit captured significant attention for its ability to make virtually any electrical device switch-accessible. By accommodating up to two standard switches, educators can adapt classroom tools to meet diverse student needs, fostering inclusivity in learning environments. Additionally, our range of switch-adapted activities demonstrated effectiveness in teaching cause-and-effect relationships and enhancing peer interaction, crucial components in cognitive and social development. These tools are essential assistive technology solutions for schools looking to improve accessibility for students with disabilities.

Therapro's Booth showing the Powerlink setup for switch access

Facilitating Fine Motor Skills with Adapted Scissors

Our collection of adapted scissors was well-received, particularly the Push-Down Table Top Scissors. Designed for individuals with limited hand strength or coordination, these scissors operate with a simple downward push, allowing one-handed use and promoting autonomy in art and classroom projects. The Dual Control Teaching Scissors also garnered interest for their unique design that enables educators to guide students through the cutting process, providing a supportive learning experience.

Push down scissors assistive technology solution

Improving Handwriting with Raised Line Paper

Experiencing our Raised Line Paper firsthand allowed attendees to appreciate its subtle tactile feedback. The raised lines assist students in maintaining writing alignment and spacing, benefiting those with visual impairments or challenges in handwriting legibility. This simple yet effective tool supports the development of fine motor skills and written communication and is a valuable assistive technology solution for schools seeking to enhance student success.

Participating in the NYC Assistive Technology Conference reinforced the importance of hands-on demonstrations in understanding the impact of assistive devices. Therapro remains committed to providing educators, therapists, and parents with practical solutions that empower students to achieve greater independence and success in their educational journeys.

SENcastle all in one sensory solution

Discover the SENcastle: A Revolutionary Sensory Solution

Occupational Therapy, Sensory, , , , , , , ,

Occupational therapists know that every child’s sensory system is unique, requiring individualized approaches to address their specific needs. Often, creating an effective sensory space demands substantial room and specialized equipment. Enter the SENcastle – a compact, portable sensory room that offers a sensory solution designed to transform how therapists address sensory processing challenges.

A Game-Changer for Meeting Sensory Needs

Developed in collaboration with special education teachers and sensory integration therapists, the SENcastle offers a comprehensive and adaptive sensory experience. This multimodal sensory device connects children’s sensory needs with assistive technology, providing controlled sensory input through five sensory systems: visual, auditory, tactile, vestibular, and proprioceptive.

Why Occupational Therapists Will Love the SENcastle

1. Versatile and Adaptable: The SENcastle fits seamlessly into most environments, whether it’s a classroom, therapy clinic, or community setting. Its compact design ensures it can be integrated into individual or group settings, as well as shared spaces for universal access.

SENcastle cushions, 6 specially designed cushions that offer a range of sensory experiences

2. Comprehensive Sensory Input: With its thoughtfully designed components, the SENcastle offers a wide range of sensory experiences. The central light column, equipped with advanced LED technology, projects dynamic visual effects, while integrated sound effects enhance the auditory experience. Six specially designed sensory cushions provide varied tactile and proprioceptive input, creating a holistic sensory environment.

3. Easy to Use: The SENcastle is user-friendly and straightforward to operate. With five control buttons and RFID-enabled sensory cards, therapists can easily manage sensory scenes, adjust sound and light intensity, and customize the experience to meet each child’s needs.

Therapist and child inside the SENcastle using the easy to use RFID cards to create sensory scenes
SENcastle a versatile sensory solution with 6 sensory cushions and a central light column

4. Portable and Space-Efficient: One of the most significant challenges in creating sensory spaces is the requirement for large, dedicated areas and extensive equipment. The SENcastle addresses this by offering a portable solution that can be set up quickly and efficiently, taking up minimal space while providing maximum benefits.

5. Promotes Independence and Generalization: By integrating sensory experiences into everyday situations, the SENcastle helps children generalize and apply behaviors learned in specialized settings to their daily activities. This promotes greater independence and enhances their ability to navigate various environments successfully.

Features and Technical Specifications

  • Ergonomic design with spacious interior
  • Adjustable sound and light intensity
  • A central light column with visual effects
  • Integrated sound effects
  • Six sensory cushions for varied input
  • Durable construction with easy maintenance
  • RFID-enabled sensory cards with multiple scenes
  • Bluetooth Headphones are included to allow use even when in a shared space
  • Recording capable for personalised messages and sounds
  • 2-year manufacturer’s warranty

Transforming Therapy Sessions

Imagine a sensory solution that not only addresses individual sensory needs but also transforms the environment to optimize therapy sessions. The SENcastle does precisely that, offering a space for “sensory discharge” to calm overstimulated children or a “sensory charging” station to energize those needing additional input.

Bringing Sensory Integration to New Heights

For occupational therapists, the SENcastle is more than just a sensory room; it’s a revolutionary tool that redefines how sensory integration therapy is delivered. Its versatility, portability, and comprehensive features make it an invaluable addition to any therapeutic setting, empowering therapists to create tailored sensory experiences that foster growth, independence, and success.

Ready to explore the SENcastle’s potential? Visit Therapro’s website to learn more and discover how this innovative sensory room can transform your therapy sessions.