KAWARTHA LAKES-Meet Milo, the robot created to help kids with autsim, learn.
Katherine MacIver,Superintendant of Learning at Trillium Lakelands District School Board introduced Milo along with Kristi Henshall and Barry Hicks, both teachers for Behaviour/Autism, at their recent board meeting. Trillium Lakelands is one of three boards across Ontario using Milo who is currently making friends at King Albert Public School in Lindsay.
Milo was created by RoboKind, a Dallas-based company whose mission is to “create cost-effective and inclusive education for all.”
RoboKind, who makes Milo, says they worked with experts within the autism community to design non-threatening robots that are interesting and accessible to learners with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Milo has 29 different motors inside, with 15 in his face alone. He comes with a comprehensive curriculum that allows faciliators to support students with ASD.
Milo communicates with students through a tablet and a screen that allows the child to see their own facial expressions. Through the tablet, the facilliator can help the child identify how they interact with Milo and with others. Along with other elements, Milo is able to help students learn emotional and self-regulation skills.
Student reactions to Milo are unique and individual but their overall reaction and their level of engagement has been very positive said the board.
