In addition, devices may be borrowed from local and state equipment loan programs. Devices are loaned for a period of time and then returned as the child grows out of the device or the device is no longer needed. Tech Act Projects Encourage Use of AT Tech Act projects have actively encouraged the use of assistive technology by very young children. They have increased awareness among parents and professionals about assistive technology and they have opened up access to devices and services. For example, the Assistive Technology for Kansans Project, in collaboration with the Kansas Infant-Toddler Service, established an equipment loan program that serves very young children.
Parents can borrow devices for a six-month trial.
At the end of that time, families are assisted in finding funding for the equipment they want to continue to use. Or, if no other child is waiting for the equipment, the family may keep it for a longer loan period. Clinicians are also allowed to borrow devices to conduct child assessments and allow the family to try out a device before purchase. The Tech Act project offers regional training on assistive technology subjects. Topics are determined by requests from families and local infant-toddler providers.