SITE MAP | Last updated 6.15.09

Parents . . . we're your link for independence

Whether you have a child who is struggling in school and needs some additional support or you have a child with a documented disability, AT:LAST is here to provide you with a wealth of assistive technology resources. From training opportunities to hands-on product comparisons to assistive technology evaluations, AT:LAST staff is committed to using assistive technology to promote independence and success for your child.

Use the links below to find out more about AT:LAST and what we can offer your child for technology success!

What is the MD AT Co-op and how can it help me and my child?
What is assistive technology and how it can help my child?
Can I try out some AT and see if it will work for us?
How do I buy AT?
What if I need help with my new assistive technology?

What is the MD AT:Co-op & how can it help my child? [back to top]

The Co-op is a program of AT:LAST, Inc., a small, non-profit organization that endeavors to eliminate barriers to acquiring assistive technology (AT) products and services and:

• has an Assistive Technology Learning Center in Columbia, MD where you can preview and borrow equipment
• uses the combined purchasing power of Maryland schools to make AT more affordable for everyone
• negotiates directly and conducts bids with over 90 manufacturers of AT to get the best prices for you
• invites parent to participate in cooperative purchasing of AT needed at home
• maintains a parent resource section and listing of various training opportunities on this website
• has a wide range of daily living aids and items to promote independence for seniors and those with functional limitations.

What is AT & how can it help my child? [back to top]

The first step to find out what assistive technology is to visit our Assistive Technology Learning Center where we carry a wide variety of assistive technology products including:

• Educational Software to promote competency in academic areas and communication skills

• Communication Devices to improve verbal and written language interaction
  
  
• Computer Access to allow access to a computer other than by the standard keyboard

• Aids for Daily Living to assist with environmental control, feeding, and seating options
  
  
• Switches and Adapted Toys to encourage independent play and participation in activities

• Visual Supports Software for communication boards, picture schedules, adapted books
  
  
• Sensory Aids to provide access for individuals with hearing or vision difficulties
  
  
• Therapeutic supplies for use by OTs, PTs, SLPs and parent

In addition to meeting one-on-one with an AT Specialist, we also provide numerous Assistive Technology Overview trainings that are available for parents, community members and educational staff. Please check our training calendar for our current offerings. If you do not see something that fits your needs, please email your training request to training@matcoop.org.

Can I try out some AT and see if it will work for us? [back to top]
You are welcome to visit our Assistive Technology Learning Center to try a variety of assistive technology devices as listed above.

If you find something that you would like your child to explore further, for a small fee, they may borrow the AT for a rental period. For more information about AT rentals please contact Laura at: communications@matcoop.org.

Because of our small staff and varied activities on and off site, it is recommended that you call in advance for an appointment to assure an appropriate staff member will be available to assist you.  Generally, The A.T. Learning Center is open Monday through Friday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. Please call 410-381-COOP (2667).

How do I buy AT ? [back to top]
We also provide the assistive technology tools through a discount. Parents and individuals with disabilities can participate in cooperative purchasing of A.T. software or devices needed at home or in the community. The Co-op works closely with the Maryland A.T. Guaranteed Loan Fund (www.mdtap.org; See the Services section) so that individuals can get the lowest possible cost plus (if needed) the lowest possible interest rate when financing the purchase of A.T.

When ordering, please keep the following in mind:

1. Check with your therapist or teacher to get recommendations for the software and/or equipment that best matches the person’s needs and/or supports his/her educational program.
   
   
2. Purchase equipment that meets the person’s needs at the present time: do not try to buy something he/she might need later. Remember, in the future, newer technologies will be available that may better serve his/her needs.
   
   
3. Don’t purchase too much at one time. Focus the person’s time and energy on becoming competent with one communication device and/or software program at a time.
   
   
4. If possible, borrow equipment from your school or us so you can try it before you buy it.
   
   
5. Before purchasing software and hardware, make sure that it is compatible with your home computer (MAC or PC) and that your computer has all the necessary requirements (memory, sound card, peripherals) to run it. If you have any questions, contact the manufacturer.
   
   
6. If you need financial assistance to purchase assistive technology for the person, please contact the MD AT Guaranteed Loan Program (1-800-TECH-TAP) for information on low interest loans.

What if I need help with my new AT ? [back to top]
After finding the right assistive technology tool for your child, the next step is getting it up and running successfully. This can be a very overwhelming task but we are here to help!

Whether you need help installing software on a computer, getting a device mounted on a chair or simply training to get your product working, for a small fee we are here to he

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