Technology applications in intervention for preschool-age children with language disorders

Preschool-age children are capable of using computers and benefiting from developmentally appropriate software. Computer technology has been used successfully in therapy for young children with speech and language disorders; however, the clinician is a crucial factor in such success. Clinicians choose communication goals and appropriate software, plan precomputer activities, provide appropriate models and opportunities during the computer activity, and provide postcomputer activities that ensure the generalization of new skills. In this article, we discuss and illustrate the characteristics of developmentally appropriate computer-based activities and the role of clinicians in planning and implementing these activities for young children.