Assistive Technology for Autism Spectrum Disorders

 

Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) can benefit from the use of Assistive Technology (AT). Through the use of AT, the user can become less dependent on caregivers for prompts. This fosters greater independence and success.

Visual Schedules

Although "paper" schedules are beneficial, many individuals will perform better when there is also a paired voice prompt. Use simple communication buttons, such as the Talk About! to create" talking" visual schedules. Velcro pictures or objects to each button and place the buttons in the order in which tasks should be completed. Velcro the buttons to a wall, table, or other surface. If you need a portable, inexpensive voice output visual schedule, Velcro the Talk About! buttons to a Talk n Tote Board.      

• Sample "talking" visual schedule (place pictures on buttons and record a message on each button):
• Morning arrival: "I will put my lunchbox in my cubby."
• Morning free time: "I will play with blocks."
• Morning activity: "I will set on the red carpet for reading time."
• Center Based Tasks

Use communication buttons to record the directions for each center's activity. If the task is a simple one, you could record the instructions on one button. If the task is more complicated (multi-step) considering recording each step of the directions on a Little Step-by-Step. Each time the button is pressed, the next step will be spoken out loud for the user. Or a series of individual communication buttons could be used. Use Time Trackers at each center to provide visual cues for time remaining.

Melt Down Redirection

Individuals with ASD often find it difficult to transition from one activity to another. Using visual schedules is helpful in these transitions. But a visual cue before a task is coming to an end allows these individuals time to "gear up" for a change. Using a visual timer such as a Time Tracker gives individuals with ASD cues about how much time is remaining for a task and when time is coming to an end for an activity. This makes for a smoother transition.    

Sometimes people just need a break. Use a communication button with a message like "I need a break". Then set your visual timer to allow for a short break.

Use communication buttons that show various ways to chill out. Let the individual pick the calming activity.

"I can play with my squishy ball."

"I can hide under my weighted blanket."

"I can listen to music."

Record music clips on several Talk About! buttons and mount them in the "chill out" area. Put pictures that represent the type of music on the button. Then the user can choose what to listen to. Free music downloads for educators can be found at sites such as freemusicpublicdomain

Self-Regulation

Individuals with ASD often need reminders throughout the day in order to stay calm and directed. Record a message with calming techniques on communication buttons that the individual can listen to throughout the day.

For more information about Adaptive Equipment For Adults visit here:

https://www.adaptivetechsolutions.com/blog/assistive-technology-for-autism-spectrum-disorders/

 

Portable Wiggle Seats: An Essential Tool for Occupational Therapy

Helpful Devices

Check out our devices that make daily living easier, such as our wireless attendant call buttons that can be activated by a switch to gain the attention of caregivers. Made for people with limited to no hand function.

Portable Wiggle Seat

Kids can be relaxed and stay on task in all of their classes as the built in carry handle allows the wiggle seat sensory cushion to be taken anywhere. Keeps kids stimulated when sitting on chairs, benches, or directly on the floor working from home, in the classroom, or anywhere in between. A great choice for individuals with ADHD, Autism, sensory integration needs, and more.

Quiet Calming and Concentration Booster

Students silently move giving them an outlet for excess energy while working increasing their ability to focus.

Tactile Sensory Integration Aid

Flexible nubs on one side and smaller bumps on the other provide a sensory seat cushion for kids and offer tactile stimulation to help reduce stress.

Perfect Size for Growing Kids

13”/33cm diameter is a great fit for a kid’s seating while being large enough to grow as the child does.

Easy to Use and Adjust to the Right Firmness

Ergonomic, latex-free portable seat cushion disc comes with Easy-Inflation Pump for simple and precise firmness adjustments.

Cause-Effect

Toys listed in the Cause Effect Category are selected because they best facilitate the teaching of basic cause-effect. Cause-Effect is an early language concept where and individuals learns that if they do something, there will be a direct result. Such as, if I press a button, a toy will play. When I stop pressing the button, the toy will stop. Toys that continue to play after a switch is released are not suited for teaching this concept, but are engaging and fun once an individual understands Cause-Effect concept. Cause-Effect is a precursor to language development. Cause-Effect language is important because it allows a person to effectively communicate causative relationships between events.

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.

For more information about Toys For Special Children and visit here

https://www.adaptivetechsolutions.com/portable-wiggle-seat/

Embracing Inclusivity: The Advantages of a Talking Calculator

 

In a world where technology constantly evolves to accommodate various needs, the concept of inclusivity has become increasingly prevalent. From accessibility features on smartphones to adaptive tools in educational settings, advancements are continuously made to ensure that everyone, regardless of their abilities, can fully participate in daily activities. One such innovation is the talking calculator, a device designed to assist individuals with visual impairments or learning disabilities in performing mathematical calculations.

A functional arithmetic device with English speech output for entries and computations

Product Features:

• For computation outputs, user chooses between complete number speech or digit-by-digit reading
• Includes volume control, mute option, and angled viewing display option

For totals, choose between the complete number speech, “seventy-eight” or the digit-by-digit, “seven, eight.”

• Features volume control, mute option and angled display. Designed for desktop use.
• Size: Approximately 6½ x 4¼ inches. Two AAA batteries included.
• Save money on multiples with the Ten Talking Calculators option.

Helpful Devices

Check out our devices that make daily living easier, such as our wireless attendant call buttons that can be activated by a switch to gain the attention of caregivers. Made for people with limited to no hand function.

Adaptive Tech Solutions!

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.

For more information about Adaptive Computer Mouse and visit here: https://www.adaptivetechsolutions.com/talking-calculator/

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.

 

Wireless Attendant Call Button Vibrating Alert AC

 

Our wireless attendant call button system can be used as-is or with an optional standard 1/8" (3.5mm) switch plugged into the transmitter for activation by those with poor or no finger use. Perfect for the caregiver who needs to go out in the yard, do laundry, or simply run to the mailbox.

• Includes an A/C plug in receiver chime for indoor use, a battery operated portable receiver chime, and a switch adapted transmitter.
• This alert signal travels up to 500 feet* through doors and walls in a normal house environment.
• Receiver has 52 ringtones, vibration, a silent mode, and 4 volume levels (from a soft 25 dB up to 110 dB).
• Built-in belt clip for easy hands-free chime transport by clipping it to your clothing.
• Multiple units can be used within the same environment using easy chime programming. Each user has their own chime sound assigned.

Directions to pair transmitters can be found on the video on this page and in the instructional pamphlet included with the product. Requires 2 "AAA" batteries (not included) and 1 12-volt battery (included). Optional switch (not included) is recommended for people with little or no finger dexterity or progressive diseases such as ALS.

This product is not intended to replace direct supervision of the user or be used for emergency situations.

• Replacement batteries are available here.
• Add a Neck Strap Transmitter to allow users with good hand function to wear a separate transmitter around their neck. This transmitter is not adapted for switch use.
• Add a Device Lanyard to wear the included switch adapted transmitter around the neck (or strap it to a bed rail, walker, etc)
• Purchase additional Wireless Attendant Call Transmitters to pair with the receiver. (Multiple transmitters can be paired with one receiver.)
• *may vary slightly due to building construction. Travels up to 1000 feet in an open air environment.

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.

Battery Interrupters make toys switch adapted

 

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.

"So, what are Battery Interrupters anyway?", you ask. Well, they are a little disk with a plug on the end. Slip these little guys between your battery and the compartment contacts to stop, or "interrupt", the power.

This allows you to plug a switch into the other end to "un-interrupt" the power and make the toy or device go.So, dig around in your closets and find all those battery operated toys and devices and start making your own switch adapted toys and devices. As long as they don't have remotes, complex electronics, or use squeeze activation, you should be able to adapt them.

Battery Interrupters are made for devices with batteries sizes AA/AAA or C/D. Pick an interrupter made for the size batteries in the device. Slip the disk between the battery and the contact and insert them simultaneously. When removing the interrupter, remove the batteries and allow the interrupter to come out along with them. Some battery compartments are very tight, thus not allowing for enough space to insert a battery interrupter. In this instance, do not force the interrupter into the battery compartment; as you will most likely break or fray the wires. Using a triangle shaped file, make a notch in the battery compartment cover (if the plastic is soft you may be able to clip a notch using wire nippers). This lets the compartment cover go back on while allowing the wire of the battery interrupter to fit through.

Press your switch and the device comes on. Let go and it turns off. If you are adapting devices for someone who is just learning to use a switch (learning "cause-effect") this is the perfect setup. If the user is more advanced, they may not want to hold the switch down the entire time.

Plug in a Switch Latch and Timer (SLAT) such as AbleNet's Mini Beamer or Dual Switch Latch Timer between the battery interrupter and the switch. Now you can set it to Latch so that when the switch is pressed and released the device stays on until the switch is pressed again. Or, set it to Timer so that after the switch is pressed and released the device stays on for a predetermined amount of time before it goes off. Now the user doesn't have to hold the switch down the entire time the device is on.

For more information about Switch Toys For Special Needs and

Visit here: https://www.adaptivetechsolutions.com/blog/and-your-mama-says-its-rude-to-interrupt-battery-interrupters-make-toys-switch-adapted/

 

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.