AT is used by individuals with disabilities to perform functions that might otherwise be difficult or impossible. Early intervention AT refers to adapting a child's environment to allow the child to functionally participate in daily activities. Examples include walkers, positioning supports, switch-activated toys, built-up utensil handles for self-feeding, and speech-generating devices.
§303.13(b)
(1) Assistive technology device and service are defined as follows:
(i) Assistive technology device means any item, piece of equipment, or product system, whether acquired commercially off the shelf, modified, or customized, that is used to increase, maintain, or improve the functional capabilities of an infant or toddler with a disability. The term does not include a medical device that is surgically implanted, including a cochlear implant, or the optimization (e.g., mapping), maintenance, or replacement of that device.
(ii) Assistive technology service means any service that directly assists an infant or toddler with a disability in the selection, acquisition, or use of an assistive technology device. The term includes-
(A) The evaluation of the needs of an infant or toddler with a disability, including a functional evaluation of the infant or toddler with a disability in the child’s customary environment;
(B) Purchasing, leasing, or otherwise providing for the acquisition of assistive technology devices by infants or toddlers with disabilities;
(C) Selecting, designing, fitting, customizing, adapting, applying, maintaining, repairing, or replacing assistive technology devices;
(D) Coordinating and using other therapies, interventions, or services with assistive technology devices, such as those associated with existing education and rehabilitation plans and programs;
(E) Training or technical assistance for an infant or toddler with a disability or, if appropriate, that child’s family; and,
(F) Training or technical assistance for professionals (including individuals providing education or rehabilitation services), or other individuals who provide services to, or are otherwise substantially involved in the major life functions of, infants and toddlers with disabilities.
