A note from Karen Simmons, Founder of Autism Today
Communication was always a challenge for my son Jonny, even though he could speak. If you’re a parent of a non-verbal child with autism, I know you must have a lot of pain in your heart. Being in your shoes is not easy! Over the years people have said "Karen, your son can speak, you really don't know what were going through with our non-verbal children. What do you recommend for those of us who have children that may never learn to talk?" My answer until now has been, very little. Finally though, I found a convenient device called "Go Talk". What is really nice about this is that its easy to carry in the palm of the hand. Pictures can easily be switched out for other pictures and the voice will say the word or phrase associated with the picture. Its also similar in size and shape to a PDA or cell phone so your child will more readily fit in socially with other children. The voice will also help the child so they can begin to associate the picture with the words and may learn to speak the words. The GoTalk Pocket weighs seven ounces, contoured, and so small it fits nicely in your hand—or your pocket! Six message keys with five levels give the user plenty to talk about. Overlays slide in easily and are stored in a removable compartment on the back. The Pocket is rugged, attractive, easy to use, and has great sound quality. Three batteries come with it, and the recording time is five minutes.
