Technology, Including Robots, Help Children With Special Needs At Tulsa’s Little Light House

The Little Light House in Tulsa has served thousands of special-needs children over the last 50 years.

Therapies, including technology, like robots, are also helping students gain independence.

Steven Plowman is a four-year-old who is all smiles as he takes big steps toward independence.

Steven's mom, Linnea, is so proud of the strides her son has made in his first year at Little Light House.

"He's got an amazing personality, sweetest boy, loves to have fun, loves the Little Light House," said Linnea.

The developmental center in Tulsa for children with special needs uses technology to help with teaching and therapies.

One of its robots is called the "Trexo," which is a gait trainer that gives children walking experience.

Steven's teacher, Madison Donohue, said her student is getting more confident each day.

"He's just so happy to be up and around, interacting with everyone on that level," said Donohue.

When it is time to eat, another robot called the "OBI" feeds Steven.

Steven can touch one button to move the spoon to the food he wants and then press another button to feed himself.

"He can do it on his own, which frees us up to help other students that may need help,” said Donohue.

Steven and other students here also have a device in which they use their eyes to communicate.

"Technology is huge in my classroom, especially with communication,” said Donohue. “It really gives all my non-verbal kiddos a chance to talk and tell us what they need, what they want."

As technology advances and Little Light House continues its work into the next 50 years, parents like Linnea said they are grateful.

"It's amazing,” said Linnea. “His independence and happiness and joy is just the most important thing."