Compatible with iPhone
and iPod Touch
iAdvocate
Developed by Syracuse University, iAdvocate is a gem of an app for any parent of a child with autism or other disability. As a parent who is striving to ensure that your kid gets educated properly you should know this app packs resources and answers and strategies that you need to have! And it's free! Add it to your arsenal now.
I've viewed the first two films listed on iAdvocate's resource list. Including Samuel is one of the best documentaries I've seen. It's both entertaining and informative, and it's all about inclusion. Autism is a World is also a great documentary about the life of Sue Rubin, who has an exceptional mind (and autism). You should see both films, as well as Normal People Scare Me and Temple Grandin.
Yes, iAdvocate is essentially an app you need to read. But it's formatted in a way that makes it easy to find what you're looking for. I love the "Responses" area which outlines several popular things school districts say to parents regarding their children with autism. Just touch the statement that the school is telling you and the screen slides over to an appropriate response that you should come back with. Wow, what a powerful tool to have in an IEP Meeting!
I noticed at least one thing I'd change within iAdvocate. Under 'Strategies' and then 'Articulate Your Vision' the app says, "Initially, you should be very clear about what you want for your own child..." That's a little off base. Instead, it should state "Initially, you should be very clear about what you believe your child needs..."
Why? Because we all want what's best for our child, but that's not what the law says the schools must provide. The law says that your child is entitled to a Free and Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) and your school district must provide everything your child needs in order to get that Free and Appropriate Public Education according to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. That means you don't pay for anything and the education must be APPROPRIATE!
Now, if iAdvocate would just do all the arguing and fighting for you so you can leave the IEP Meeting and count on your child getting an effective education! Haha! Maybe that feature will show up in a future app update.
