Myron Hood is a lively, inquisitive two-year- old, with energy that really takes him places. He has cerebral palsy which affects his gross motor skills and his fine motor skills. He has limited communication skills, yet understands language when someone speaks to him. Referred to LINC by the MD State Dept. of Education Infants and Toddlers Program, Myron and his father met with LINC staff to explore computer access options and software choices to encourage communication and verbalization.

Jean Wunder, LINC ’s Special Education Projects Manager, introduced the touchscreen to Myron to help him access the computer independently. He was able to reach it by sitting on his father’s lap. Jean learned that Myron especially enjoys software that features music and animation. His favorite software choices include a custom-made Intellipics-Barney song, Reader Rabbit Toddler, and Laureate's Talktime with Tucker.

Reader Rabbit teaches Myron how to control the computer with cause and effect activities. Together, Jean and Myron’s father set the long-term goal of having Myron learn to touch specific targets on various parts of the screen to increase visual tracking skills. This skill training will help Myron in choice making. While visiting with Jean, Myron also explored voice-activated software such as Talktime with Tucker. With this software, Myron can talk through a microphone and his voice causes an action of the characters on the screen. These and other services for children, ages zero to three, are funded by a grant from the MSDE Infants and Toddlers Program.