Demetrius was born early at 25 weeks gestation, with a birth weight of 1 lb. 6 oz. He was diagnosed with Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP), nystagmus and oculomotor dysfunction. A left eye esotropia resulted in strabismus surgery in August 2006. Several complications took place post-birth including developmental delays and hydrocephalus. Issues with muscular tone later resulted in a diagnosis of cerebral palsy. He also has a diagnosis of autism and cortical visual impairment.

Demitrius has many different special needs such as autism, low vision/cortical visual impairment and cerebral palsy, but he is highly motivated by the iPad. He is learning to use a keyboard at school and at home. He enjoys reading books and playing games on his ipad and is starting to look at areas that he can work when he finishes school. He is able to write and compose his thoughts on the iPad with the keyboard with assistance and using technology may be an area for him for employment, leisure, school and to learn independent learning skills.

The iPad opens the door for Demetrius for learning and independent function as he also could follow a visual schedule on the iPad for increased independence. It is difficult for his mother to provide this equipment, but she is highly motivated to help him learn more ways to use technology to be independent. It is also a reinforcer for him to maintain cooperative behavior. He has used an iPad in the past, but it is outdated and no longer will work with current apps and equipment. The iPad would also assist with his communication, although he is able to speak. It would help him be able to communicate his thoughts more extensively. Due to Demetrius’ visual impairment the accessibility of the iPad allows him to use the magnifier, change the contrast and use voice over to help read things on the screen for him. He needs the high contrast keyboard in order to see the symbols on the keys. The itunes card would be used to purchase book apps and other learning and communication games for him to use that meet his individual needs.

Demetrius enjoys watching movies, playing games and reading books with his mother. She takes him on the bus and out in the community for different activities at his school, the park, movies, restaurants etc. He also enjoys music and listening to it with his ipad and headphones.

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