New software is in the beta testing mode to help children with autism interact with the Internet safely and with less frustration. The free offering comes from the heart--the ZAC Browser was created by a grandfather for his grandson with autism.

John LeSieur is the CEO of People CD,  where he and his team "put you in the middle of our technology and develop around your needs," according to his website. People CD had started working with children's software, sculpting an easy, Web 2.0 interface between kids and the Internet where they could be screened from sites that contained inappropriate information and were otherwise too adult. But even then, LeSieur noticed that his autistic grandson, who benefitted from computer time, had difficulty navigating access to the Web.

The browser cuts distraction as well by not allowing advertising, letting the user concentrate on the sites that are pre-programmed to be allowed, such as PBS Kids and Sesame Street. The browser also takes into account the emphasis many autistic children have for the visual, with graphic interfaces and bigger buttons that make it easy for kids to find where they want to go. The point of the browser is to create a feeling that "I can do it!"

The browser runs on Windows 2000, Windows Me, Windows XP, and Windows Vista, and is now available in English and French.

LeSieur is the first to admit that the browser was not designed with the input of autism experts, but he is confident from his experience with his grandson Zackary that the ease of the experience is one that will be common to many children with autism. If nothing else, the software is now free--while other assistive programs may cost in the thousands of dollars.

In addition to the program/browser, the ZAC browser site has a forum for parents and caregivers to discuss the program, make suggestions and post pictures of their special kids, as well as a newsletter.