New Technology for Kids and Families - December 2009

Keeping Track

Even when their kids have cell phones, parents need the peace of mind of knowing where their children are (when the child doesn't answer the phone, or it runs out of power). The ESCORT Entourage PS is a small, lightweight GPS that a parent can stash in a child's backpack. With a smartphone or computer, you can find out exactly where your child is, and when he leaves, enters, or moves from a preset zone, like your house, you get an email and text message alert. The ESCORT Entourage PS is $349.95; monthly subscription fee is $14.95.

Picture That

iPrompts, a new app for iPhone and iPod Touch, is a picture-based communication tool for kids with special needs. Because visuals are often used to help those with language and behavioral challenges, including autism, Down syndrome, and ADD/ADHD, iPrompts lets you create picture-based schedules of events, countdown timers or choice prompts between two images. There are hundreds of photos and images to select from, and you can add more with the iPhone's camera. The app helps kids transition between activities and communicate with parents and teachers. At Apple's iTunes Store, $49.99; get more info at www.iprompts.com.

Games Highlight

Wii Fun