Many parents worry about young children spending too much time using technology, and this concern can be even stronger for parents of neurodivergent children. But when used thoughtfully, technology can offer real benefits for autistic children, particularly in supporting routine, communication, and emotional regulation. The Autism Speaks Foundation say “there’s no doubt that technology can make a profound difference in the lives of people with autism”, and I could not agree more. When used correctly, technology can be a genuinely powerful support tool.
Using smartphones to support neurodivergent children:
It is undeniable that smartphones have become a necessity for young people. With a few simple adjustments, you can optimise your child’s phone to help them reduce communication challenges while also promoting their independence.
Apps
There are many excellent apps available to support neurodivergent people of all ages and abilities. Here are a few that have proven especially helpful for us:
- Emergency Chat App
This app allows children to create preset or adjustable cards that can be shown to others as a form of communication. This is particularly useful for children if they go non-verbal.
- Molehill Mountain
Molehill Mountain helps autistic children understand, track, and self-manage anxiety in a clear and accessible way.
- IRewardChart
IRewardChart allows parents to give positive reinforcement by rewarding stars for good habits. This can be useful for building routines and encouraging positive behaviours.
Change phone settings to support regulation
There are some surprisingly simple ways to adjust your child’s phone settings to make them more neurodivergent friendly.
- Support your child’s communication by enabling text-to-speech functions or increasing font size
- Use greyscale lighting mode to reduce visual stimulation
- Monitor excessive phone or app use with screen time limits
These small changes can make technology feel less intimidating and more supportive.
Supporting communication
Technology is a valuable way to support your child’s willingness to communicate.
For many neurodivergent children, traditional phone calls can be anxiety-inducing, so having the option to text family members may help them feel included.
Technology also allows neurodivergent children to stay connected with a trusted network of friends. This can be especially important for maintaining relationships when in-person socialising feels too intense.
Organisation
Parents of neurodivergent children can use online planners or calendars to help visualise and organise their plans. This is particularly useful for children who rely on structure and routine.
Technology can also be used to set reminders, take notes, utilise smart speakers for prompts, or support sensory regulation.
A final thought from Oliver Larholt
When used thoughtfully, technology can be a valuable tool for supporting neurodivergent children. From communication to routine and emotional regulation, small adjustments can make a meaningful difference. By focusing on balance and your child’s individual needs, technology can become a supportive part of everyday life!
For more support, you can reach out to some of the organisations here:
