Software to teach nonverbal persons with severe autism and retardation to communicate by pointing to pictures

Little software exists for nonverbal persons with severe and profound autism and retardation. PoinToCount is a set of self-teaching computer programs that teaches such persons how to communicate basic needs by pointing to pictures. Self-abusive and aggressive behaviors, often displayed by autistic and retarded persons, are sometimes thought to be the only means such persons possess to make their needs known. By teaching a more acceptable form of communication, PoinToCount serves an important treatment function. The software also teaches a variety of basic skills, including beginning reading and math skills, and skills to enable vision testing. Programmed instruction, behavior modification, and precision teaching features, such as devices that automatically dispense edible rewards when certain criteria are met, are incorporated