Assistive Technology 101 for Parents

In this episode of The Bylund Clinic Podcast, we’re joined by Anya Ashouri, M.S., CCC-SLP, a speech-language pathologist specializing in assistive technology and augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). Anya shares her professional journey into the world of assistive technology (AT) and helps parents understand how these tools are thoughtfully evaluated and implemented across school settings.

We begin by defining assistive technology in plain language and clarifying common misconceptions — including the difference between “high-tech” devices and the many low-tech and mid-tech supports that often make a meaningful difference. Anya explains who may benefit from AT across ages and learning profiles, and what general indicators professionals consider when determining whether assistive technology may be appropriate.

We also explore the critical distinction between access and instruction — how assistive technology supports access to curriculum and communication without replacing skill development or evidence-based teaching. Anya walks us through the typical framework used in comprehensive AT assessments, including how professionals analyze a student’s strengths, needs, environments, and daily demands to ensure recommendations are aligned and functional.

From there, we discuss best practices for implementation across settings, the importance of training and consistency, and what research says about the effectiveness of assistive technology for reading, writing, math, attention, executive functioning, and communication. We also examine how artificial intelligence is influencing the AT landscape — highlighting promising innovations as well as areas where thoughtful caution is warranted.

Finally, Anya shares practical examples of how assistive technology can support students with reading and writing challenges, as well as students with language and communication differences. We also address common systemic barriers — including training, funding, and capacity — and the factors that tend to predict successful outcomes.

This episode is designed to help parents build foundational knowledge about assistive technology so they can ask informed questions and better understand how AT may support access, participation, and independence across school environments.

Parents can reach Anya at:
https://sites.google.com/view/anyaashourislp?usp=sharing
anya.ashouriSLP@gmail.com

Check out Anya’s slidedeck of AT resources at:
https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/e/2PACX-1vTdX6liKTM-Qb6PZPgD001_M4Qt0r2UEEx8bgGgGDmtCmMa30KEQlbTc3CAnjYCWTbWj7pXWl2qwHEf/pub?start=false&loop=false&delayms=3000&slide=id.p

Learn more about The Bylund Clinic:
https://thebylundclinic.com/

Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional mental health treatment, diagnosis, or therapy. Listening does not create a therapist-client relationship. If you have concerns about your child’s or your own mental health, please consult a qualified professional.