Many parents and teachers have found that well-designed and carefully-chosen apps can support the emotional, communication, organizational, and social needs of kids with autism or Aspergers. We selected a wide range of apps, based on reviews from organizations including Common Sense Media and the Center for Technology and Disability.

Recommended apps

• Emotional Regulation: Apps to help kids gauge and manage their emotions, reduce anxiety, and adapt to change.
• Language and Communication: Apps that give kids tools for communicating with others, through simple pictures, picture-based stories, and text-to-speech.
• Routines, Schedules and Organization: Apps to help kids complete tasks independently at home, school, or in the community.
• Social Skills: Apps to help kids to understand their emotions better, learn how to read facial expressions, practice social exchanges, create personalized stories, and more.

Related resources

Best Apps for Kids with Autism

More app creators are turning their attention to the particular learning needs of kids on the autism spectrum. Educators often cite the need for apps that provide visual cues to aid in communication, support transitions to reduce anxiety, and create a consistent structure in students' daily schedules. The apps on this list from Common Sense Education can help kids learn to better identify and regulate emotions, communicate and express themselves, manage time and routines, and interact with others.

• Best Apps for Kids with Autism

Assistive Technology Support for Autism: App Matrix

Children and youth with autism face a variety of challenges in communication, executive functioning, social skills, behavior/self-management, and learning. This guide, developed by the Center on Technology and Disability (CTD), provides a well-organized matrix of mobile apps and links to other helpful resources.

• AT Support for Autism: App Matrix

Webinar: AT and Apps to Support Learners with Autism

In this webinar from the Center on Technology and Disability, the presenters demonstrate and discuss various apps and AT options, including wearable technology to support students with autism, to foster engagement, inclusion, independence, and success in the educational environment.

• Archived webinar