Grandfather builds Web browser for autistic boy

"LeSieur tried to find online tools that could guide autistic children around the Web, but he couldn't find anything satisfactory. So he had one built, named it the Zac Browser For Autistic Children in honor of his grandson, and is making it available to anyone for free.

The Zac Browser greatly simplifies the experience of using a computer. It seals off most Web sites from view, to block violent, sexual or otherwise adult-themed material. Instead it presents a hand-picked slate of choices from free, public Web sites, with an emphasis on educational games, music, videos and visually entertaining images, like a virtual aquarium.

It essentially takes over the computer and reduces the controls available for children like Zackary, who finds too many choices overwhelming.

For example, the Zac Browser disables extraneous keyboard buttons like "Print Screen" and turns off the right button on the mouse. That eliminates commands most children don't need anyway, and it reduces the chance an autistic child will lose confidence after making a counterproductive click."


To check out the browser, go to Zacbrowser.com


(I have not yet tried this out, or had BG try it out. I just received this link from my friend, and off hand, it sounds like a wonderful tool! My little man loves typing in funny words in Google.. which means I need to keep an eye on what pops up, and what he chooses to click on. He typically types in the same goofy words every time - Root Bear (yes, B-E-A-R) being a favorite- but sometimes I've seen him come up with links with XXX content. Not good! Also, I would love to disable the ability to print. That kid knows how to waste some paper!!)