#United States #Madison #Bark Technologies #Online Safety #CLTS Waiver

Bark Technologies Expands Access to Safe Connectivity in Wisconsin

Bark Technologies has achieved a significant milestone as its online safety software is now approved for purchase through Wisconsin's Children's Long-Term Support (CLTS) Waiver Program. This development is particularly vital for children and youth with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), ensuring they have access to necessary technology that promotes safety and independence.

Importance of the CLTS Waiver Program

The CLTS Waiver Program is designed to provide funds for services that help individuals with disabilities live independently in their communities rather than being institutionalized. It enables families to access essential services that were previous financial burdens, such as job coaching and home modifications. With this new approval, Bark’s technology, which includes safety and communication tools, can now be utilized to improve the quality of life for these children.

Addressing Vulnerability in Digital Spaces

Children and young adults within the I/DD community face unique challenges when navigating the digital world. Recent studies have shown that they are almost twice as susceptible to online threats, including cyberbullying and exploitation. Bark Technologies aims to mitigate such risks through its suite of online safety tools. These tools are essential in allowing families to equip their children with safe means of communication and connectivity, thus promoting independence in a psychologically safe environment.

Bark’s Suite of Safety Tools

Bark Technologies offers a range of products specifically designed to enhance safety and promote independence among I/DD youth. The products include:

• - The Bark Phone: recognized by PC Mag as a leading smartphone for children, it provides GPS location tracking, virtual safety boundaries, and content controls.
• - The Bark Watch: designed for easy communication while ensuring safety through monitoring features.
• - The Bark Home: a web filtering technology that ensures safe internet usage within households.
• - The Bark App: a platform that allows monitoring across multiple social media channels ensuring continued protection.

Each of these devices comes with numerous features aimed at fostering independence while keeping caregivers informed of their child's activities. For instance, through GPS tracking and personalized safety planning, parents can receive notifications about their child’s location, enhancing their sense of security.

Features Promoting Safe Connectivity

Some notable features of the Bark Phone include:

• - GPS-powered location tracking that allows caregivers to monitor children's whereabouts in real time.
• - Personalized alerts that notify caregivers of any irregular activities or safety concerns, allowing prompt action.
• - Access to community resources, aiding in social integration and support for families.

This robust technology reduces the need for constant in-person oversight while allowing children to learn and practice independent living skills in a safe environment.

Improved Opportunities for Families

Christian Brucculeri, Chief Community Officer at Bark, emphasizes the importance of technology in fostering independence for young individuals with disabilities. According to him, “As technology becomes more essential to daily life, independence simply isn't possible without it.” With the approval from Iowa’s CLTS, families will not have to sacrifice safety for the sake of connectivity, proving that both can coexist with the right technological solutions.

The program also covers various essential aspects of daily living, allowing families to request Bark's devices directly through their service providers. This simplifies the process of obtaining necessary support tools without burdening families financially.

Final Thoughts

Overall, Bark Technologies' approval through the CLTS Waiver Program represents a significant step forward in providing safety and support for children with I/DD in Wisconsin. By merging advanced technology with crucial safety features, Bark not only empowers families but also aids children in navigating an increasingly complex digital world more safely. As this initiative unfolds, we can expect improvements in the quality and independence of life for many young individuals, highlighting the positive impact that thoughtful technology can have on society.

Visit Bark's website for more information on their products and how they can enhance safety in everyday life.