# How do I write assistive technology into an IEP?

> The IDEA requirement to consider AT, examples for autistic students, and how to write it into the IEP.

URL: https://theautismkit.com/guides/assistive-technology-iep
By The Autism Kit team · Updated 2026-09-27

**Short answer:** IDEA requires IEP teams to consider whether every student needs assistive technology devices and services. For autistic students, AT ranges from low-tech (picture schedules, first-then boards, timers) to high-tech (visual schedule apps, AAC devices). Write AT into the IEP where it supports a goal, as a supplementary aid or service, and include training for staff and family if needed.

**Key takeaways**
- IDEA requires teams to **consider AT for every student**.
- AT can be **low-tech** (pictures, timers) or **high-tech** (apps, AAC).
- Link AT to **specific goals**.
- Include **training** for staff and families.

## What does IDEA require?

When developing each IEP, the team must consider whether the student needs assistive technology devices and services.[1] Schools must ensure AT is available if it's required as special education, related services or supplementary aids, and AT may be used at home if the team decides it's needed.[2][3]

## What AT helps autistic students?

| Need | Low-tech | High-tech |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Predictability | Picture schedule, first-then board | Visual schedule app |
| Communication | Choice boards, PECS | AAC app or speech-generating device |
| Time | Sand timer, visual countdown | Timer app |
| Regulation | Break cards, calm card | Calming routine app |
| Sensory | Noise-reducing headphones | — |

## How do I write AT into the IEP?

1. **Name the need** in present levels: "Needs visual support to move between activities."
2. **Link to a goal**: "Using a visual schedule, will transition within 2 minutes..."
3. **List the AT** under supplementary aids and services or related services.
4. **Include training** for staff and the family.
5. **Plan data** to show whether it's working.

**Trial first.** A short trial with simple data (like prompts needed) helps the team choose AT that actually works for the student.

## What should I avoid?

**Try:**
- Considering low-tech options first
- Training everyone who supports the student
- Using the same AT at home and school

**Skip:**
- Checking the AT box without discussion
- Devices nobody knows how to use

Free printable: [Free printable: classroom pack](https://theautismkit.com/printables/classroom-pack.pdf)

## What can I do before the next IEP?

- [ ] List needs AT could support
- [ ] Trial one low-tech and one high-tech option
- [ ] Draft goal language that includes the AT

Read next: [What are the best special education apps for autistic students?](https://theautismkit.com/guides/special-education-apps)

## Common questions

### Does AT have to be high-tech?

No. Picture schedules, timers and first-then boards count as assistive technology too.

### Can AT go home with the student?

IDEA says AT devices may be used at home if the IEP team decides the student needs them there to receive a free appropriate public education.

### Who pays for AT in the IEP?

If it's in the IEP, the school provides it at no cost to the family.

## Sources

1. Legal Information Institute: 34 CFR § 300.324, development, review and revision of IEP (consideration of assistive technology). https://www.law.cornell.edu/cfr/text/34/300.324
2. Legal Information Institute: 34 CFR § 300.105, assistive technology. https://www.law.cornell.edu/cfr/text/34/300.105
3. Early Childhood Technical Assistance Center: Federal laws and regulations on assistive technology. https://ectacenter.org/topics/atech/laws.asp

General guidance, not a diagnosis or treatment plan. Talk with your pediatrician or a developmental specialist about your child's care.