Helpful Tools & Links for ALN Support
Here you will find a curated list of resources designed to support children with Additional Learning Needs (ALN). From tech tools to educational guides, these resources aim to make learning engaging and accessible.
- Tech Tools for ALN
- AI & LLM Tools for Education
- Parent Guides & Tips
- Inclusive Learning Platforms
- Community and Support Networks
Tech Tools for ALN
Bookshare
What it does: Provides accessible e-books for individuals with learning disabilities, vision impairment, or physical challenges.
Why it’s helpful: Offers audio, large text, and Braille formats.
Link: Bookshare
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Dragon Naturally Speaking
What it does: A speech-to-text software that helps users with difficulties in writing or typing.
Why it’s helpful: Reduces the barrier of writing by allowing users to dictate their thoughts.
Link: Dragon Naturally Speaking
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ModMath
What it does: An iPad app for students with dyslexia and dysgraphia to complete math problems.
Why it’s helpful: Allows for digital manipulation of math problems without handwriting.
Link: ModMath
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C-Pen Reader
What it does: A portable pen scanner that reads text aloud for students with dyslexia or visual impairments.
Why it’s helpful: Enhances reading independence with text-to-speech functionality.
Link: C-Pen Reader
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Ginger Software
What it does: A writing assistant tool that corrects grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors in real-time.
Why it’s helpful: Supports learners with dyslexia or language-based learning challenges.
Link: Ginger Software
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Tobii Dynavox
What it does: Offers communication devices and software for individuals with speech or motor impairments.
Why it’s helpful: Empowers non-verbal users to communicate effectively.
Link: Tobii Dynavox
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SnapType Pro
What it does: An app that lets students with writing difficulties complete worksheets by typing instead of handwriting.
Why it’s helpful: Makes completing schoolwork more accessible for children with fine motor skill challenges.
Link: SnapType Pro
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Visual Timers (Time Timer)
What it does: A visual countdown timer to help children understand time better.
Why it’s helpful: Useful for learners with ADHD or autism to manage transitions and focus on tasks.
Link: Time Timer
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Kidspiration Maps
What it does: A visual mapping tool for creating diagrams, mind maps, and organisers.
Why it’s helpful: Helps learners with ADHD, dyslexia, or processing issues organise thoughts visually.
Link: Kidspiration Maps
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ClaroRead
What it does: A text-to-speech software that supports reading and writing.
Why it’s helpful: Improves reading comprehension and writing confidence for learners with dyslexia.
Link: ClaroRead
AI & LLM Tools for Education
ChatGPT by OpenAI
Description: A conversational AI tool that supports learning and creativity. It can assist with brainstorming ideas, explaining complex concepts, generating lesson plans, and even providing personalized tutoring.
Why it’s great for education:
Tailored responses for learners of different ages and abilities.
Can generate quizzes, stories, or study guides.
Encourages independent problem-solving by guiding learners through challenges.
Link: ChatGPT by OpenAI
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Khanmigo
Description: An AI-powered tutor and teaching assistant developed by Khan Academy in partnership with OpenAI. Khanmigo helps students with hints and guidance, encouraging critical thinking without giving away answers.
Why it’s great for education:
Offers real-time tutoring support.
Supports subjects like math, science, and more.
Free and accessible for learners worldwide.
Link: Khan Academy
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Google’s LearnLM
Description: A family of AI models that enhance learning experiences by providing personalized support and resources. LearnLM powers conversational AI on YouTube and Google’s education tools.
Why it’s great for education:
Integrates seamlessly with Google tools like Classroom.
Offers real-time explanations for videos and questions.
Makes learning more engaging and interactive.
Link: Google for Education
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Microsoft Copilot
Description: An AI assistant integrated into Microsoft 365 apps, helping teachers and students streamline their tasks. Copilot can generate lesson plans, quizzes, and other educational resources.
Why it’s great for education:
Simplifies time-consuming tasks for educators.
Allows personalized learning paths for students.
Fully integrated into widely-used tools like Word and PowerPoint.
Link: Microsoft Copilot
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MagicSchool AI
Description: An AI platform designed for teachers to create lesson plans, assessments, and differentiated materials. MagicSchool focuses on reducing teacher burnout while maintaining high educational standards.
Why it’s great for education:
Customizable lesson planning.
Saves time by automating repetitive tasks.
Supports inclusive education with adaptable resources.
Link: MagicSchool AI
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Merlyn Mind’s AI Assistant
Description: A classroom-focused AI assistant that helps teachers manage tasks, answer queries, and integrate AI into their teaching seamlessly.
Why it’s great for education:
Supports classroom management with voice commands.
Simplifies information access during lessons.
Helps educators focus more on students and less on logistics.
Link: Merlyn Mind
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Parents’ Guides & Tips
Additional Learning Needs (ALN) System: Parents’ Guide
Description: This guide from the Welsh Government explains the transition from the Special Educational Needs (SEN) system to the Additional Learning Needs (ALN) system. It outlines parents’ and children’s rights, detailing how support is provided and what changes to expect.
Why it’s helpful: Offers clear insights into the ALN framework, helping parents navigate the new system effectively.
Link: ALN System: Parents’ Guide
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Additional Support for Learning: A Guide for Parents and Carers
Description: Provided by Enquire, Scotland’s advice service for additional support for learning, this guide helps parents understand their child’s rights and the support available in educational settings.
Why it’s helpful: Includes practical advice, case studies, and tips on collaborating with schools to ensure children receive appropriate support.
Link: Additional Support for Learning Guide
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Supporting Children and Young People with Additional Support Needs
Description: Parent Club Scotland offers resources and guidance for parents of children with additional support needs, covering topics like communication, learning strategies, and accessing further support.
Why it’s helpful: Provides practical tips and directs parents to additional resources and services.
Link: Supporting Children with Additional Support Needs
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How to Help a Child with a Learning Disability
Description: HelpGuide.org provides strategies for parents to support children with learning disabilities, focusing on building strengths, coping with challenges, and fostering self-esteem.
Why it’s helpful: Offers actionable advice to assist children in thriving academically and socially.
Link: Helping Children with Learning Disabilities
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Advice on Parenting Disabled Children
Description: Family Lives offers guidance on supporting disabled children, addressing challenges like bullying, social inclusion, and accessing support services.
Why it’s helpful: Provides insights into common issues and practical advice for navigating them.
Link: Parenting Disabled Children Advice
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Inclusive Learning Platforms
The Open University’s Accessible Online Learning
Description: This module offers insights into creating accessible online learning experiences, covering topics like assistive technologies, inclusive design strategies, and evaluating accessibility.
Why it’s great for inclusive learning:
Provides comprehensive training on designing accessible educational materials.
Focuses on universal design principles to cater to diverse learning needs.
Equips educators with skills to assess and enhance online learning accessibility.
Link: Accessible Online Learning – The Open University
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Education and Training Foundation’s Assistive Technology Resources
Description: This resource offers guidance on using digital technologies to support learners with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), including webinars and case studies on assistive tools.
Why it’s great for inclusive learning:
Highlights practical applications of assistive technologies in education.
Provides real-world examples and case studies for effective implementation.
Supports educators in creating inclusive and accessible learning environments.
Link: Assistive Technology Resources – Education and Training Foundation
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Third Space Learning’s Accessible Online Learning for Pupils with SEN
Description: This platform focuses on creating an inclusive online classroom environment tailored for pupils with Special Educational Needs (SEN), offering personalized math tutoring sessions.
Why it’s great for inclusive learning:
Provides individualized support to cater to each pupil’s unique needs.
Utilises technology to create engaging and accessible learning experiences.
Aims to close learning gaps and boost confidence in students with SEN.
Link: Accessible Online Learning for Pupils with SEN – Third Space Learning
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Microsoft’s Inclusive Design for Accessible Learning
Description: Microsoft offers tools like Microsoft 365, Teams, and Windows 11 with built-in accessibility features designed to support diverse learners.
Why it’s great for inclusive learning:
Provides mainstream, non-stigmatizing accessibility options.
Supports various learning styles and needs through adaptable interfaces.
Encourages an inclusive educational environment using familiar tools.
Link: Inclusive Design for Accessible Learning – Microsoft Education Blog
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Britannica’s Assistive Tools for Inclusive Classrooms
Description: Britannica highlights five assistive tools that support inclusive learning, aiming to create a positive atmosphere that nurtures success and collaboration among all students.
Why it’s great for inclusive learning:
Offers practical tools to accommodate various learning needs.
Promotes empathy, acceptance, and mutual respect in the classroom.
Enhances engagement and accessibility for students with special educational needs.
Link: Assistive Tools for Inclusive Classrooms – Britannica
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Community & Support Networks
SNAP Cymru
Description: SNAP Cymru is a national charity in Wales dedicated to advancing education and promoting inclusion for individuals with Additional Learning Needs (ALN) and disabilities. They offer free, independent, and impartial information, advice, and support to children, young people, parents, and carers.
Why it’s helpful:
Provides bilingual support for Welsh and English speakers.
Offers specialist casework, advocacy, and resolution services.
Helps families to navigate ALN processes confidently.
Link: SNAP Cymru
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Scope – Support for Parents
Description: Scope offers a variety of support options for parents of children with disabilities, including local support groups, online communities, and tailored advice.
Why it’s helpful:
Connects families with shared experiences.
Provides access to in-person and online support networks.
Offers advice on navigating challenges like education and healthcare.
Link: Scope – Support for Parents
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Contact – For Families with Disabled Children
Description: Contact is a UK-based charity that supports families with disabled children by providing local support groups, a helpline, and online resources.
Why it’s helpful:
Helps families find local support and services.
Offers a helpline for advice and guidance.
Provides resources tailored to specific conditions and challenges.
Link: Contact – Parent Support Groups
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Action for Children – Support for Families with Disabled Children
Description: Action for Children provides tailored support to families with disabled children, helping them cope and enabling their children to thrive through confidence-building and practical assistance.
Why it’s helpful:
Offers emotional and practical support for families.
Encourage children with additional needs to gain confidence and independence.
Provides tailored resources and services.
Link: Action for Children – Families with Disabled Children
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Parenting Special Children – Community Support Groups
Description: Parenting Special Children runs facilitated support groups for parents of children with additional needs, offering a space to connect and discuss relevant topics with expert practitioners.
Why it’s helpful:
Provides specialized support groups with expert-led sessions.
Offers opportunities for parents to connect and share experiences.
Focuses on practical advice and emotional support.
Link: Parenting Special Children – Community Support Groups
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Disclaimer:
The resources listed on this page are provided for informational purposes only. While we strive to ensure they are accurate and up-to-date, Cwtch & Code does not endorse or take responsibility for the content, availability, or services offered by external websites. Please use your discretion when accessing these links.
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