For neurodivergent individuals, managing daily tasks, remembering appointments, and transitioning between activities can be exhausting. When executive function is challenged, a dedicated visual schedule acts as an "external brain," reducing anxiety and fostering independence.
The Skylight Digital Calendar has quickly become one of the most highly recommended pieces of Low Cost Assistive Technology (LCAT) by Occupational Therapists. But with two distinct models available—the standard 15-inch Desktop model and the new wall-mounted 27-inch Skylight Max—how do you know which one is the right fit for your NDIS plan?
Both models run the exact same powerful scheduling software. The decision ultimately comes down to the participant’s specific functional needs, visual accessibility requirements, and home environment. Here is our comprehensive guide to help you and your OT choose the perfect fit.
Side-by-Side Comparison: 15-inch vs. 27-inch Max
| Feature | Skylight 15-inch | Skylight Max (27-inch) |
|---|---|---|
| Best Placement | Kitchen bench, study desk, bedside table (includes stand). | Wall-mounted in a central hallway or main living area (flush mount included). |
| Visual Display | Standard HD Touchscreen. | Anti-Glare High Definition. Designed to be readable from across the room. |
| Ideal For | Individual participants, students, and smaller physical spaces. | Participants with low vision, Shared Independent Living (SIL) homes, and busy households. |
| NDIS Cost Bracket | Standard Low Cost AT. | Mid-Tier Low Cost AT (May require stronger functional evidence). |
The Skylight 15-inch: The Personal Hub
The 15-inch model is our most popular option. It is roughly the size of a large laptop screen, making it incredibly versatile. It comes with a sturdy desktop stand, meaning no tools or drilling are required to set it up.
OT Justification & Functional Use Cases:
- Individual Routine: Perfect for keeping in a bedroom or study nook where a participant can check off their morning self-care routine (brush teeth, pack bag) without distractions.
- Portability: Because it sits on a stand, it can be moved from the kitchen bench during the day to the bedside table at night for bedtime routines.
- Cost-Effective: Easily fits within standard Core Consumables budgets without triggering audit flags for high expenditure.
The Skylight Max (27-inch): The Command Centre
The Skylight Max is a premium, large-format screen. At 27 inches, it is essentially a digital noticeboard designed to be mounted flush against a wall (it can be mounted horizontally or vertically). Because it is highly visible, it acts as a passive, "always-on" support that doesn't require the participant to be up close to read it.
OT Justification & Functional Use Cases:
- Low Vision Support: For participants with visual impairments, the 15-inch screen may cause eye strain. The Max offers large, high-contrast text and an anti-glare finish, making colour-coded schedules accessible from a distance.
- Shared Independent Living (SIL): In SIL homes, multiple participants and rotating support workers need to see the daily plan. A 27-inch wall-mounted hub ensures everyone is on the same page, preventing missed appointments or medication errors.
- Reducing "Demand Avoidance": For participants with PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance), handing them a small tablet can feel like a "demand." A wall-mounted calendar allows them to passively absorb the routine as they walk past, significantly lowering anxiety.
NDIS Funding and Claiming Codes
Both the 15-inch and the 27-inch Max are generally compliant for funding under the NDIS, provided they are linked to the participant's plan goals (such as increasing independence, improving daily living skills, or managing executive function).
These items are commonly claimed under:
Low Cost AT - Communication Or Cognitive Support (03_222100911_0124_1_1)
Already know which one you need?
Once your device arrives, be sure to bookmark our Ultimate Skylight Setup Guide to learn how to sync your calendars and build effective NDIS chore charts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Skylight Calendar covered by NDIS?
Yes, for many neurodivergent participants, the Skylight Calendar can be claimed as Assistive Technology if it is deemed reasonable and necessary. It is commonly funded under Low Cost AT - Communication Or Cognitive Support (03_222100911_0124_1_1) to assist with executive function, memory, and routine management.
What is the difference between the Skylight 15-inch and the Skylight Max?
The 15-inch model is designed for personal use and sits on a desktop stand. The Skylight Max is a much larger 27-inch anti-glare screen designed to be wall-mounted. The Max is highly recommended for participants with low vision or for Shared Independent Living (SIL) homes where multiple people need to view the schedule from a distance.
Can I claim the 27-inch Skylight Max on my NDIS plan?
Yes. However, because the 27-inch Max is a larger investment than the standard 15-inch model, Occupational Therapists typically provide justification stating that the larger, wall-mounted anti-glare screen is required due to visual impairments, severe demand avoidance, or complex household coordination needs.
How does a digital calendar help with Autism and ADHD?
A digital visual calendar acts as an 'external working memory.' It clearly displays colour-coded routines and transitions, which reduces anxiety, lowers cognitive load, and decreases a participant's reliance on verbal prompting from carers or support workers.
How to Order Your Skylight Using NDIS
We make securing your cognitive supports straightforward, regardless of how your plan is managed.
Option 1: Plan-Managed Participants
Add your chosen Skylight model to the cart, head to checkout by selecting "NDIS Checkout". We will instantly email you a fully compliant tax invoice (with the correct codes) that is also automatically forwarded to your Plan Manager provided details.
Option 2: Self-Managed Participants
Buy online today using your preferred payment method either using the "NDIS Checkout" or "Standard Checkout". You will receive an instant tax invoice straight to your inbox, ready to upload to the myplace or PRODA portal for reimbursement.
Option 3: Agency (NDIA) Managed Participants
Let us handle the portal paperwork for you. Select "NDIS Checkout", fill in your NDIS number and date of birth, and our team will lodge the claim directly with the NDIA on your behalf.
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