To get started all you need is a computer or tablet and an internet connection. Then contact us to sign your students up. The ASD Reading program will take care of the rest. If your students are not reading, or have minimal reading and writing skills, then the program will start them off at the very beginning. If your students are capable of reading and writing, there is a short skills survey that will determine the best place for them to begin.

The length of time a child will need to complete the program varies depending on their skills. To complete the entire set of components takes about 12-15 months, assuming a child completes four to five sessions a week. Many children, who are motivated to do more than one session a day can complete the program in as few as 3-6 months.

Checklist for what you need to use the program

  • A computer with a mouse or a tablet (iPad, Android or Windows tablet)
    If you are using desktop computers (Windows, Mac, Chromebook) we recommend using a mouse instead of a trackpad, or other pointing device, because it's easier for children to operate. If you are using a notebook (laptop) computer we recommend using an external mouse. Your computer or tablet does not have to be the latest or best one (though newer and faster is preferable). 

  • Internet access
    It does not have to be the best and fastest connection. Any connection will work (though faster is preferable). 

  • Your computer or tablet needs a free web browser
    (Such as Chrome, Safari, Firefox, or Internet Explorer). Most computers already have this installed.

  • A quiet, distraction-free place to work
    It's important that the room offer a quiet atmosphere and a clear work surface. Multiple computers or tablets can be used in one location as long as the student have headphones to listen to the audio.

  • An adult to supervise
    Adult supervision is required at the beginning of the program. Once a has become familiar with the program, he or she may be able to use it completely independently. However, depending on your child's behavior and capacity to work in a self-directed manner, an adult may need to be present at all sessions.

  • Students should be at least 3 years old, be able to sit quietly and pay attention for 5 minutes, and they should be able to use a tablet touch screen or mouse and keyboard.
    Most students using the program will be 4 years of age or older. However if a student of 3 years is not speaking and is capable of paying attention for at least 5 minutes at a time, it is worthwhile trying the program. Through its use, the students can develop complex language, even in the absence of speech. The benefits for communication and overall development are enormous. The ability to use a mouse with some adult assistance as outlined in the program's included instructions is fine.

  • To ensure success, a student should use the program at least 4 days per week
    We cannot stress enough how important it is to use the program regularly. Using the program once per day 4 days per week is far superior to using the program 4 times in one day. The more a student uses the program (5, 6 or even 7 days per week), the faster the progress. Students can use the program both at school and at home.