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Software Brings Autism Therapy Into Homes

Computer network is alternative to expensive, hard-to-get therapists

By Laila Weir,  Newser User

Posted May 1, 2008 8:00 PM CDT
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(Newser) – A Seattle software company is offering new hope to parents of autistic children who struggle to get, and afford, behavioral therapy, which can cost upward of $30,000 a year and isn't usually covered by insurance. Jigsaw Learning has created a game-like computer network, called TeachTown, that provides some aspects of the therapy, the Post-Intelligencer reports.

The founders say the network can’t replace real therapists, but it can allow children to work on their own, reducing the hours needed with expensive, often-overbooked professionals. About 1,000 school districts, treatment centers and parents are currently using TeachTown software, which costs $40 for a month's subscription.

Ryan Massey, 11, plays with action figures, Monday, Oct. 8, 2007. Ryan is the youngest of three brothers in his family, all of whom have Asperger's syndrome, a milder variant of autistic disorder.
Ryan Massey, 11, plays with action figures, Monday, Oct. 8, 2007. Ryan is the youngest of three brothers in his family, all of whom have Asperger's syndrome, a milder variant of autistic disorder.   (AP Photo/John Amis)
Ryan Massey, 11, is pictured in his home, Oct. 8, 2007. Ryan is the youngest of three brothers, all of whom have Asperger's syndrome, a milder variant of autistic disorder.
Ryan Massey, 11, is pictured in his home, Oct. 8, 2007. Ryan is the youngest of three brothers, all of whom have Asperger's syndrome, a milder variant of autistic disorder.   (AP Photo/John Amis)
Jacob Day, 3, who is autistic, works with his instructional assistant on April 24, 2007. A new software program offers an alternative to expensive one-on-one therapy sessions.
Jacob Day, 3, who is autistic, works with his instructional assistant on April 24, 2007. A new software program offers an alternative to expensive one-on-one therapy sessions.   (AP Photo/Rich Pedroncelli)
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