Choosing the Right Big Button Switch for Your AAC Device

 

When selecting an augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) device for individuals with limited mobility or speech challenges, pairing the device with the right accessories is essential. One such accessory that can greatly enhance usability is a Big Button switch. These large, easily activated switches allow individuals with motor difficulties to communicate more easily by interacting with their AAC device. However, choosing the right Big Button switch can be a bit overwhelming due to the various options available. Here's a guide to help you make an informed decision.

An easy-to-use AAC device with large activation space that requires minimal movement to push

Product Features:

• Has a transparent cap for inserting image overlays
• Low profile for minimal movement when activating
• Options available: Big Button or Big Button Steps and Levels
• Big Button has tap-to-talk mode for three messages total
• Big Button with Steps and Levels records up to three activities, each with 10, six-second steps and records up to 10 distinct message levels which stay consistent across activities

Big Button

The Big Button has two modes: single message and tap-to-talk mode. In single message mode, you get one great sounding message. In tap-to-talk mode, the user can choose one of up to three messages, controlled by the number of button taps (similar to single- or double-clicking a computer mouse). One button tap plays the first message, two taps play the second message, and three taps play the third.

• A single 48-second message
• plus three 24-second messages in the tap-to-talk mode

Big Button with Steps and Levels

The Big Button with Steps and Levels also has two modes: steps and levels. In the steps mode, you can record three activities, each with up to ten 6-second steps. After recording, you select an activity and the user plays the steps in sequence, one by one. An LCD indicates the activity and step number. The level mode gives you an additional ten distinct messages. The message stays the same until you change the level.

• Ten levels—nine levels with 6 seconds recording time plus one level with 14 seconds
• Program three activities with up to ten steps each (6 seconds recording time per step)
• LCD readout
• 40 message capacity

An overlay storage compartment on the back makes changing an overlay a snap. It’s easy to erase or edit messages without affecting the other recordings. For example, if you want to change Step 5 of a Making Coffee activity, simply select the activity, press record, move up to Step 5, press the play button, and record your new message. All other steps remain intact.

Both Big Buttons feature:

• Sleek design
• Great sound
• Volume control
• Easy-touch activation
• Low profiles
• Easy to slide in overlays
• Overlay storage in back
• Nonskid rubber feet
• Threaded insert for mounting
• Key hole for wall mounting
• 2 AAA batteries, included

Size: 5¾ inches across. Weight: 8.1 oz. Holds 3 x 3-inch image.

Volume control, durability, affordability, easy to use, low profile, nonskid rubber feet, key hole for wall mounting, threaded insert for mounting, holds 3 x 3- inch images, two AAA batteries included for operation

For more information about AAC Devices and visit here: https://www.adaptivetechsolutions.com/big-button/

 

Techno Gears STEM Construction Set - Dizzy Droid

 

Get ready — your future engineers are about to get dizzy with excitement over the Techno Gears Dizzy Droid building toy. It has been switch adapted to accept a standard 3.5mm switch so that kids with disabilities can be immersed in the fun world of the Dizzy Droid. This 60+ piece construction set is designed to stimulate kids’ imagination and introduce them to the fundamentals of engineering and mechanics making it a great addition to your STEM learning environment. With the help of peers, follow the colorfully detailed instruction manual to build the Dizzy Droid. Then press an external switch or the switch on the toy to watch the droid’s head rotates as it moves across the floor. This fun robot has to be put together piece by piece, so children with minimal hand functions may need assistance of a peer or parent. It is a great way to promote cooperative play and reinforce cause-effect. Measure 11.5 x 3 x 10.5 inches.

• Switch adapted to accept a standard 3.5mm switch.
• Switch sold separately.
• Can be used with or without an external switch.
• Press & hold your external switch or push the button located on the toy to begin the fun.
• Requires the assistance of a peer for assembly.
• Recommended for ages 6 and up.
• Reinforces cause-effect and promotes peer interaction and cooperative play.
• A perfect addition to STEM classroom learning.

Adaptive Tech Solutions is a therapist owned and operated company and we strive to provide adapted equipment for individuals with disabilities at affordable prices. Our owner, Denise, has been a Speech-Language Pathologist and Assistive Technology Professional for over 30 years. She still actively works with folks with disabilities in her private practice and is happy to assist customers with product selection and in finding solutions to special situations. She also hand picks all the products we carry in our store and has the expertise to correctly advise how to use adaptive products.

Unlike some of our competitors, with our switch adaptation service, nearly all our products are adapted to be used both with or without a switch. This means you get more for your money since the toys can be used with individuals with disabilities, and able-bodied individuals, too. These products are perfect for classroom, daycare, and other settings where disabled and non-disabled peers play together. 

We have several people who help keep our company running, including a retired Air Force veteran who adapts our devices and the mom of a child with disabilities who provides friendly customer support. Everything we do is to enrich the lives of people with disabilities by creating affordable independence and learning through adapted toys, switches, and specialty devices. It is simply our passion. At our Sand Springs, OK facility we adapt nearly all our products by hand when you place your order. We believe in 'going green', which is why we frequently recycle our shipping boxes. Although the box might be worthy of our "ugly sticker", the goodies inside are carefully packed just for you. And our products come with our 30-day happiness guarantee.

 

Introducing Adaptive Tech Solutions: Expanding Access to Toys for Disabled Children

 

Adaptive Tech Solutions is proud to announce the launch of a groundbreaking initiative aimed at enhancing the lives of disabled children. With a focus on inclusivity and accessibility, Adaptive Tech Solutions is dedicated to providing innovative toys tailored specifically for children with disabilities.

One of the key highlights of this initiative is the introduction of a diverse range of "Toys for Disabled Children." These toys are meticulously designed and adapted to meet the unique needs and abilities of children facing physical or cognitive challenges.

At the heart of this endeavor is the belief that every child deserves the opportunity to play, learn, and explore the world around them. Through the use of assistive technology and thoughtful design, Adaptive Tech Solutions aims to empower children with disabilities to engage in playful activities that promote sensory stimulation, motor skills development, and social interaction.

"Our mission at Adaptive Tech Solutions is to break down barriers and create opportunities for children with disabilities to fully participate in the joy of play," said at Adaptive Tech Solutions. "We believe that play is a fundamental aspect of childhood and should be accessible to all children, regardless of their abilities. Our range of Toys for Disabled Children reflects our commitment to inclusivity and our dedication to enriching the lives of children with disabilities."

The Toys for Disabled Children collection includes a wide variety of options, from switch-adapted toys that can be operated with the touch of a button to sensory toys that provide tactile, auditory, and visual stimulation. Each toy is carefully selected and adapted to ensure that it meets the specific needs and preferences of children with disabilities.

As part of this initiative, Adaptive Tech Solutions has partnered with leading manufacturers and experts in the field of assistive technology to develop and curate a comprehensive selection of toys that promote learning, exploration, and fun.

To learn more about the Toys for Disabled Children collection and explore the full range of products available, please visit Adaptive Tech Solutions website at https://www.AdaptiveTechSolutions.com.

About Adaptive Tech Solutions:

Adaptive Tech Solutions is a leading provider of assistive technology products and solutions for individuals with disabilities. With a focus on innovation and accessibility, Adaptive Tech Solutions is dedicated to empowering individuals of all ages to live more independently and participate fully in everyday activities.

Teaching Beginning Communication with Inexpensive Single Buttons

 

If you’re reading this, you most likely know someone who is non-verbal or has very limited communication skills. They may communicate through grunts, pushing things away, or throwing that tantrum in the grocery store isle that seems to last waaaay too long. As a caregiver, therapist or teacher, our job is to replace those methods of communication with functional, socially appropriate communication that is understood even by unfamiliar listeners. Inexpensive, single button communication devices are a great way to begin this process.

Single button communication devices are portable and can be mounted on various surfaces. It’s easy to change recordings “on the fly”. Additional buttons can be added as the user’s skill level increases. Single button communications device prices vary from under $30 for the Talk About! Communication Button from Adaptive Tech Solutions to more advanced multi-level communications buttons like the Little Step-by-Step with levels from AbleNet.

For beginning users, how do you choose a message to teach single switch communication device use? Think of the most motivating, meaningful activity for the user. Make sure it is something they love, love, love! It could be something like “I want chocolate milk” or “I want to go outside and play”. Place a picture or representational object on the button, record your message, and make the button available for the user. Don’t give them the desired activity or thing unless they press the button. When first starting out, you may have to place their hand on the button, let the button speak, and then say “Oh, you want ______.” and then give it to them immediately. Don’t offer a choice that isn’t realistic. If it’s 20 degrees outside, don’t give them a button that says “I want to go outside and play.”

Some users understand pictures, others may need representational objects or to have one of these paired up with the location of the button. For instance, a beginning user may not quite understand that a photo of the playground represents going outside to play. But, put that picture on it and mount the button next to the door that leads to the playground. Every time you are going to the playground, have them touch the button that says “I want to go to the playground” (or provide hand-over-hand if they don’t initiate pushing the button on their own). Once that button is pressed and it speaks, take them right to the playground.
visit here: https://www.adaptivetechsolutions.com/blog/teaching-beginning-communication-with-inexpensive-single-buttons-/

 

Assistive Technology and Cerebral Palsy

 

Cerebral Palsy, the most common motor disorder, can make it difficult for people to interact with their environment. Through the use of assistive technology, such as  switches and switch adapted toys/devices, people with Cerebral Palsy can independently interact with their environment. Switches are buttons, levers, or sensors that can be activated with any part of the body. Switches vary in how much pressure is required to activate them. So, a person with very limited motor movements might do better with a Micro Switch, whereas a person with big, less controlled motor movements would do best with a large durable switch such as the Big Red Switch. Also, the body part being used to press the switch needs to be selected based on movements that are the most accurate, controlled, and consistent.

Individuals with Cerebral Palsy also often have speech disorders. For individuals with a significant speech impairment, they may not be easily understood by others. Through the use of communication devices (sometimes called talking boxes or talking buttons), people with speech impairments can communicate with others. There are a wide variety of communication devices ranging from single message output devices such as the Talk About!, to more advanced devices with multiple messages/topic pages such as the SuperTalker, and high tech devices such as those offered by companies that specialize in speech generating devices, such as Tobii Dynavox and PRC. Some individuals who aren't quite ready for these devices might benefit from a low tech system such as the Talk n Tote Board, a portable communication board that can have pictures and objects attached. 

Adaptive Tech Solutions, a therapist owned company, offers a wide variety of switches and switch adapted toys/devices to promote independence in people with disabilities such as Cerebral Palsy.

Adaptive Tech Solutions is a therapist owned and operated company and we strive to provide adapted equipment for individuals with disabilities at affordable prices. Our owner, Denise, has been a Speech-Language Pathologist and Assistive Technology Professional for over 30 years. She still actively works with folks with disabilities in her private practice and is happy to assist customers with product selection and in finding solutions to special situations. She also hand picks all the products we carry in our store and has the expertise to correctly advise how to use adaptive products.

Unlike some of our competitors, with our switch adaptation service, nearly all our products are adapted to be used both with or without a switch. This means you get more for your money since the toys can be used with individuals with disabilities, and able-bodied individuals, too. These products are perfect for classroom, daycare, and other settings where disabled and non-disabled peers play together. 

For more information about Switch Toys For Special Needs  and visit here:

https://www.adaptivetechsolutions.com/blog/assistive-technology-and-cerebral-palsy/

 

 

Assistive Technology and Cerebral Palsy

 

Cerebral Palsy, the most common motor disorder, can make it difficult for people to interact with their environment. Through the use of assistive technology, such as switches and switch adapted toys/devices, people with Cerebral Palsy can independently interact with their environment. Switches are buttons, levers, or sensors that can be activated with any part of the body. Switches vary in how much pressure is required to activate them.

So, a person with very limited motor movements might do better with a Micro Switch, whereas a person with big, less controlled motor movements would do best with a large durable switch such as the Big Red Switch. Also, the body part being used to press the switch needs to be selected based on movements that are the most accurate, controlled, and consistent.

Individuals with Cerebral Palsy also often have speech disorders. For individuals with a significant speech impairment, they may not be easily understood by others. Through the use of communication devices (sometimes called talking boxes or talking buttons), people with speech impairments can communicate with others.

There are a wide variety of communication devices ranging from single message output devices such as the Talk About!, to more advanced devices with multiple messages/topic pages such as the SuperTalker, and high tech devices such as those offered by companies that specialize in speech generating devices, such as Tobii Dynavox and PRC. Some individuals who aren't quite ready for these devices might benefit from a low tech system such as the Talk n Tote Board, a portable communication board that can have pictures and objects attached. 

Adaptive Tech Solutions, a therapist owned company, offers a wide variety of switches and switch adapted toys/devices to promote independence in people with disabilities such as Cerebral Palsy.

Welcome to Adaptive Tech Solutions!

As you browse our website, you'll notice we're all about fun, learning, exploration, independence, competitive prices and taking awesome care of our customers! 

Adaptive Tech Solutions is a therapist owned and operated company and we strive to provide adapted equipment for individuals with disabilities at affordable prices. Our owner, Denise, has been a Speech-Language Pathologist and Assistive Technology Professional for over 30 years. She still actively works with folks with disabilities in her private practice and is happy to assist customers with product selection and in finding solutions to special situations. She also hand picks all the products we carry in our store and has the expertise to correctly advise how to use adaptive products.

For more information about Assistive Technology Devices and Adaptive Equipment for Adults visit Adaptive Tech Solutions