Lightboxes traditionally used with children with CVI may be replaced by the iPad, researchers have found. Parents are already trying out various apps to see which one works best for their child. Now researchers from the University of Kansas are starting to investigate how the iPad can be used to benefit children.
CVI (cortical visual impairment) means that the brain has difficulty interpreting visual information. The iPad's bright screen, colours and interactivity can provide a focus for vision and stimulate a child's interest. One of the apps used in the research was called "Baby finger", which produces sounds colours and shapes when the screen is touched.
Lead research Professor Muriel Saunders said: "Using the iPad, not only can children interact with a screen, but we can teach them through a series of steps to control things on that screen."
• If you have experience of using an iPad with a visually impaired child, let us know