News coverage about Adaptive Books

Article Published 5/28/13   Daily Herald Article

Article Published 10/02/13 Daily Herald Article

Purpose

Volunteers create communication strips using Boardmaker software.  Four key words on each story page are depicted using picture communication symbols (PCS).  Volunteers laminate the corresponding story pages with the communication  strips and place in a binder.  Page 'fluffers' are added to enable the child to turn the page with less difficulty.
PCS strips expand a nonverbal child's vocabulary with  exposure to new words through storytelling.  Both nonverbal children and pre-readers learn to read by connecting the symbol to the word.  PCS backgrounds are color coded for the parts of speech, teaching  language skills.  For children with fine motor skill issues, the binder allows the book to remain open.  Laminated pages mimic the stiffness of a board book eliminating torn pages and are easily sanitized for children with compromised immune systems. 

Inspiration for the Project

In 2004, Jodi Miller and Rita Angelini, two mothers with special needs children, searched for books their children could enjoy.   Finding little that was suitable, they researched available methods and assembled their first adaptive book.  With the high material costs and labor involved, they shared the books with other special needs children by donating them to libraries, making it available for all to enjoy.  They sponsored their first fundraiser and celebrated Jake and KiKi's birthdays by raising money through a backyard carnival with games, singing, and face painting.