Bark devices are now available through OhioRISE
Safer phones and watches that help young people with I/DD connect, grow, and gain independence.
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Three pillars of support
Social-emotional
well-being
Safety and
stability
Social-emotional
well-being
Within six months of using Bark,
91% of families reported improvements, including:
Within six months of using Bark, 91% of families reported improvements, including:
-
55%increased independence and reduced behavioral challenges
-
45%improved social connection with peers
-
27%developed better understanding of social interactions in digital environments
-
27%saw gains in other core developmental areas
Individuals deserve more from assistive technology
Technology should be a tool for connection, autonomy, and growth. With Bark’s safer devices, access and responsibility grow with your child’s skills and needs.
Bark Watch
A simple, focused first device that supports independence in a structured environment.
- Location tracking
- Talk and text with approved contacts only
- SOS feature for emergencies
- Alerts for concerning content in messages
- No internet, social media, or browsers
Bark Phone
A simple, focused first device that supports independence in a structured environment.
- Real-time location tracking with safe zone alerts
- Activity monitoring across texts, images, web, and apps
- Alerts across 30+ categories, including self-harm, bullying, predation, and sexual content
- Flexible screen-time and app controls that expand as skills grow
- Behavioral insights that turn alerts into coachable moments
Watch how Bark helps support safety and independence
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families of kids with I/DD in our monthly newsletter.
How to get started in Ohio
- Identify the care-plan goal Determine how the Bark device will support safety, social-emotional well-being, community participation, or independence.
- Choose the appropriate device Select the Bark Phone or Bark Watch based on the youth’s needs and level of independence.
- Submit the request form The care coordinator or designated agency representative completes Bark’s electronic request form.
- Add the invoice to the care-plan submission Bark provides a 12-month invoice for the device, software, cellular service, and applicable taxes. Submit the invoice and Child and Family-Centered Care Plan to Aetna for review.
- Set up and implement the device After approval, Bark ships the device to the family and provides setup support and recorded training.