The project, currently running in England, has already helped 212disabled pre-school children.
National computing and disability charity AbilityNet, which runs thescheme funded by the Roald Dahl Foundation, is looking for early yearspractitioners to take part in Play at IT, Northern Ireland.
Dianne Cockburn, head of projects at AbilityNet, said, 'We look forwardto extending this service to pre-school children in Northern Ireland andurge organisations interested in taking part to get in touch.'
The project aims to enhance play options for children with physical,visual and learning disabilities using information technology.
Nurseries and early years settings involved in the Play at IT projectwill be able to borrow special mice, keyboards and touch monitors for upto a year from AbilityNet's loan bank, to suit a child's individualneeds.
Early years staff will also receive free online training and supportwith information on how to adapt computer software for children withdisabilities.
Telford Playschool in Leamington Spa, Warwickshire, was one of thesettings that took part in the scheme last year.
Sandra Allen, joint supervisor and SENCO at the playschool, said, 'Beingable to use the specially adapted equipment meant that William(pictured) could sit with his classmates and was no different to theother children. We would now consider buying similar equipment forchildren who came to the pre-school with the same needs.'
Further information: For details of how to take part in the scheme visitwww.abilitynet.org.uk or call 0800 269545
