After two-years of tests and programming Southern Highlands based charity, Your Angel, have developed a robot that can communicate with and help autistic children.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
NAO humanoid robot, by Softbank Robotics, is an interactive learning and development program designed to help children who live with autism, developmental, social, emotional and/or behavioral challenges.
The robot gives children the opportunity to develop and practice basic social skills which others may take for granted.
Children watch, listen, read and respond to NAO who is non-judgmental, predictable and infinitely patient.
Pilot trials have found that the robot helped to reduce anxiety and with frequent exposure assisted children to gain confidence.
Program developer at Your Angel, Melissa Moss, is passionate about the project.
"Children who previously didn't enjoy school wanted to come and interact with NAO," Moss said.
NAO entertains children through dance and song as well as incorporating hands-on activities and games.
The robot can sing, dance, tell stories, do yoga, talk and play.
The first-ever game developed for NAO helped children to guess and read emotions, a vital skill throughout life.
"Our intention as a charity is to have this solution freely accessible to children in the region," Moss said.
"We want to brighten up children's lives and help them develop."
NAO will be on display for World Autism Day at Bradman Oval on April 2 from 4 - 6pm.
Visit www.yourangel.org.au for more information.
READ ALSO:
