Many years ago, while studying at Western Michigan University, I took a course that involved working directly with children with autism. At the time, behavioral techniques like those used in ABA therapy were still developing. A lot has changed since then, both in the field and in my own life.
Now as a parent of children myself, one of whom attends a school specifically for kids with autism, I've had the chance to see things from a different perspective. I've watched behavioral therapy methods grow more refined. But I've also noticed that some things haven't progressed as much, particularly the technology used to support these interventions.
In many cases, the tools available today don't reflect the potential we now have to make learning more accessible, engaging, and adaptable for children on the spectrum. This gap became especially clear when I started looking for ways to support my own child at home and at school.
Photo: Working on
the ChirpBot app
That's what led me to start developing an application, first for my own use, and then with the realization that it could benefit others as well. The goal wasn't to replace existing therapies or tools, but to create something more intuitive and better suited to the needs of kids, parents, and educators alike.
This project is rooted in both personal experience and a long-standing interest in autism education. It's still growing, but the intent remains the same: to build something thoughtful and practical, shaped by real-world needs and everyday use.
What makes ChirpBot different: Many autism therapies are built around operant conditioning, a behavioral approach where a therapist guides a child's actions toward a goal using reinforcement. ChirpBot draws from this same foundation, but with a subtle shift: instead of reinforcing imitation or scripted responses, it encourages learning through trial and error.
Children often explore smart devices intuitively. They tap, swipe, and experiment, learning what works by seeing what gets a response. ChirpBot embraces this natural curiosity. It's designed to reward discovery, helping kids build language skills by navigating toward positive outcomes.
While it's not a substitute for social learning or human connection, ChirpBot helps open new doors for communication and confidence to grow.
