Innovation: Animated Language Learning by Adam Harris, ASIAM

Innovation is a new series on AspergersAdvice.org which aims to highlight innovative developments and ideas for products and services targeted at people and families affected by Aspergers Syndrome. Naturally, we cannot endorse any such products or services but are empowering you with the information to find out more. If you have had experiences of these products/services feel free to share them with us.

Animated Language Learning (ALL) is and innovative new home based autism intervention using Disney Pixar Movies. ALL is a home-based internet delivered software programme for moderate to severe language impaired children.

Following the Autism diagnosis of their twin sons, Conor and Eoin, Enda and Valerie Dodd found there were a limited number of resources available to help their sons and the resources available had long waiting lists and exorbitant prices.

Enda began to create the programme as he seen the great response his children gave to Disney Pixar movies, such as Toy Story and Lion King.  Although the boys had limited speech, they were able to recite passages from their favourite movies and answer questions stemming from the movies.  The light bulb went off in Enda’s head; if these children can be so engaged by Disney movies, why not use this to teach them conceptual language.

Thanks to continued support from Enterprise Ireland and the Adobe Corporation the programme has came to be, with substantial support gained from Disney Pixar.  Enda keeps constant contact with Edwin Catmull, President of the Walt Disney Animation Studios and Pixar Animation Studios.  Ed has given ALL phenomenal support in the past and continues to do so as he understands the sheer importance of helping children with Autism and other language learning difficulties.

ALL has gained support from leading academics and experts in the fields of autism, neurology and language.  These sources have also contributed to the development of the programme.

The programme works on the child’s visual learning skills.  Unlike other interventions, the ALL programme works on building on the skills already within the child, strengthening the skills that are already there rather than trying to build new skills.  The programme is suitable for children aged between three to 10 years old.

Enda has done parental talks around the country and it has been a great way to get in front of the parents who are in need of this programme.  Seeing their needs and fears, Enda understands the situation they are in and he has developed this programme to save these children from the isolation of Autism.  The main aim of the ALL programme is to be made available to as many families in the country that may benefit from it at a reasonable price point.  The programme is home based and can be operated from any internet connected computer or laptop, and it has been found to be a great way to engaged with your child at home.  The programme works alongside other interventions that may already be in operation.

If you would like to find out more information about Animated Language Learning and how the programme may be able to help your child, visit the website at www.animatedlanguagelearning.com and fill in the enquiry form on the Contact Us page.