Good edtech apps can make a real difference to any child’s learning, and they can be particularly helpful for students with learning disabilities. Finding the right app is important: different apps are targeted at different learning needs and styles, and matching the app to the student will always be important.

Happily, there are now apps available to help with challenges that simply weren’t available a generation ago, and a well-chosen app can have a wide-reaching impact on a student’s performance and enjoyment of school. Edtech is changing lives, and student-facing apps can do this in a way that is empowering and improves self-confidence. Here are 7 essential apps for students with learning disabilities:

1. ModMath. ModMath is a free app for the iPad, targeted at helping students with dyslexia and dysgraphia do math. It was created by parents of a child with dysgraphia, and remains focused on providing a clear tool to solve math problems without ever picking up a pencil.
2. MyTalkTools Mobile. This is an innovative app which enables students with communication difficulties to say what they want, using a sequence of words, sounds and images. It can be configured to feature certain images and play certain sounds, so it can be set up for a particular student to best aid them.
3. Dyslexia Toolbox. Marketed as being “by dyslexic people, for dyslexic people”, this toolbox features a whole host of assistive technology features for K-12 students with dyslexia. Type pads, word prediction, digital overlays and text readers are all included, along with many more neat features designed with dyslexia in mind.
4. If… The Emotional IQ Game. An excellent example of gamification in action, If… helps children aged between 6-12 years develop the skills that lead to emotional intelligence. Parents and teachers can view reports on a student’s progress, potentially opening further productive conversations and opportunities.
5. Stop, Breathe & Think. Fantastic for students with anxiety and stress disorders, this is a meditation app which encourages users to think about how they’re feeling, while also providing short mindfulness and meditation exercises tailored to their mood.
6. Voice Dream Reader. For children and adults with reading disabilities and ADD/ADHD, Voice Dream Reader allows a student to highlight text which will then be read to them. For a learner who comprehends things better aurally, Voice Dream Reader is a must have.
7. Autism Xpress. A simple app designed to help young people with autism express their emotions, Autism Xpress uses a feeling finder and games in a fun and easy-to-use package.

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