Accessing Potential Through Assistive Technology
Adapting Toys

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Adapting toys can seem overwhelming, but anyone can adapt a toy to be switch accessible! This lesson will teach you how to solder, how to make switch ports, and how to adapt a toy. If you have any questions about this module or would like to have in-person training for this module please email tasc@ucphuntsville.org 

PART ONE: INTRODUCTION 

This module has been broken down into four sections:

  1. Introduction to Adapting Toys
  2. How to Solder
  3. How to Make Switch Ports
  4. How to Adapt a Toy

If you are interested in learning more about the switches used to control your toy or interested in creating your own switch please visit our All About Switches Module

If you already have a switch port and are comfortable with soldering please skip ahead to part 4. If this is your first time soldering please watch the videos and practice before moving on to step 4! Like any skill, soldering takes practice, patience, and focus so give yourself a few practice runs!

Tools you will need to adapt a switch based toy:

  • Soldering Iron
  • Soldering Iron Stand
  • Wire Strippers
  • Scissors
  • Flux
  • Solder
  • Double Stranded Wire
  • 3.5MM Female Stereo Jack
  • Paper Towel
  • Switch Based Toy (one that has a “Press Here” button and is battery operated works best)
  • Wire Cutters
  • Sewing materials (optional)

PART TWO: HOW TO SOLDER

Please watch the following video on how to solder.

*The fumes from the solder and the flux are not harmful, please wear protective eyewear*

PART THREE: CREATING A SWITCH PORT 

*If you decided you buy your own switch port (watch intro video for more information on buying switch ports) then you can move on to Part Four. *

Please watch the following video on how to create your own switch port

Part Four: Adapting your Toy

If this is your first time adapting a toy please make sure to watch the other videos before continuing on with the last step!

*Please wear protective eyewear *

I will be adapting a My Pal Scout stuffed animal. You can purchase the dolls at Walmart or online

All About Switches

Do you have a student who needs to use a switch for access? Do you have a student that needs to progress from cause and effect to scanning? This course is designed to explain what a switch is, how it is used and to identify software that can support your switch user for use on their level and how they progress to the next.

  1. Switches and Switch Interfaces
  2. Switch Software
  3. Switches and iPads
  4. Creating  or Buying your Own Switch
  5. Powerlink

 

Lesson 1: Switches and Switch Interfaces

A Switch Interface is a device that connect the switch to the device. Most devices (unless specifically design for those with disabilities) do not have a port to connect a switch and so switch interfaces fill that gap. They can also be used as control centers for functions. For example: a computer switch interface will allow different mouse functions to be controlled through different switches. Various switches and switch interfaces can be borrowed for 2-3 weeks from the T.A.S.C. lending library.

Lesson 2: Switch Software

We are getting closer every day to having all programs be switch-accessible, but unfortunately, we still have quite a ways to go. Below are listed a very programs that are switch accessible. If you have any programs you would like to add please mention it in the comments below! 

Lesson 3: Switches & iPads

iPad switch interfaces can be borrowed for 2-3 weeks from T.A.S.C. Lending Library.

Lesson 4: Creating or Buying your own Switch
Anyone can create their own switch. If you have access to a 3D printer, you can print out your own switch (with a few other materials needed) for about $10! Thank you to the UAH Students in the engineering department for creating a wonderful inexpensive Switch design! 
Creating:

Buying:

Lesson 5: Powerlink
AT We Love- Powerlink Webinar taught by Laura Schertz, MS, OTR/L, T.A.S.C. (Recorded 02/20/2013)

Note Taking

This course provides information about Assistive Technology tools to assist with note taking.

*Special thanks to Michael Papp, MS Rehabilitation Engineering, Rehabilitation Technology Specialist III, ADRS for permitting T.A.S.C. to post content from his 2011 ALATEC presentation on Note Taking.*

Microsoft

Microsoft Office is a program bundle that many of us are familiar with. This bundle includes Microsft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and a few other programs. You find these programs in most schools and workplaces.

Microsoft Word for Mac – Notebook View

 

 

Microsoft OneNote

• Organize text, pictures, digital handwriting, audio and video recordings into one location.
• Sync notes with audio.

OneNote

 

Apple 

Apple Does have it’s own version of Word and OneNote. Pages is very similar to Word and iOS Notes is very similar to OneNote. Both are well-made programs that link to all apple devices.

Accessibility with Apple

More Resources For Apple Notes

Google Docs

Livescribe Smartpen

• Written notes sync with recorded audio
• Download notes from pen directly to computer (allows for searching notes and sharing)
• Additional apps can be purchased for the pen
• Pre-record a “test” to allow a student to independently complete test and have it read aloud
• Can be used with Evernote, Facebook, Google Docs, and other mobile applications

Livescribe

Evernote

•Web based account to organize notes, photographs, audio files.
•Works across various platforms including Mac, Windows, iPhone, Android, etc.
•Additional applications available to create flashcards, Livescribe, Outlook, and many more.

Evernote

Sonocent Audio NoteTaker

• Record or import audio into program and it will group into phrases.
• Easily allows audio to be edited and export key segments for reviewing.
• Sync audio with notes.

Sonocent

Low Tech/No Tech Note Taking

• Carbonless Copy Notebooks
• Cornell Notetaking Paper

Spinal Cord Injuries and AT

This Course explores how assistive technology can benefit individuals with spinal cord injuries.

Carlene Hall 

United Cerebral Palsy’s T.A.S.C. received funding in 2010 from “Paint the Streets 5K” in memory of Carlene Hall.

These funds allowed us to purchase more technology for our demo and loan closet. Please check out our lending library Alabama AT 4 ALL where you can check out items for 3 weeks before you buy. This allows consumers a trial period to decide if a device will benefit them or not!

Carlene Hall Carlene Hall with Grandchild

Computer Access

Computers are a way to access the internet; and with the internet, we are able to scan through thousands of years worth of knowledge and communicate with individuals all over the world. When someone is unable to access the internet it can be frustrating and hinder their ability to learn and communicate. Believe it or not, There are plenty of products to help individuals utilize a computer. Some devices are even 100% hands-free.

Independent Living
By making a few small changes to the home and lifestyle you can allow someone more independence.

  • Accessible Homes Some changes could be extending doors with different hinges, adding a ramp to the front doorstep, moving around the furniture to fit a wheelchair, or adding a door hinge that opens door with the push of a button.
  •  Automatic Door opener
  •  Door Hinge extenders
  • Eating and Drinking There are do it yourself (DIY) adaptations for eating and drinking. You can either make your own low-tech devices or buy ones that may look a bit nicer. It all depends on how crafty you can be! Look around your house and make your own adaptions that fit your specific needs!
  • Please check out our Eating and drinking Module under “Independent Living”
  • Check out our Pinterest for great links to technology

Visit TASC’s profile on Pinterest.

Communication Devices

This course provides information on communication devices, also known as AAC (Alternative and Augmentative Communication) and SGD (Speech Generating Devices). If you are looking for information on voice banking please check out our ALS, Voice Banking, and Speech Amplification module.

Low Tech Communication Solutions

Low Tech for Emergencies
In emergency situations it is important to have access to communication. These free booklets below give instructions on how to use the booklets to better serve the individual.

Low Tech for Everyday 
It is always good to have basic needs covered by low-tech AAC. This way if there is not access to Higher tech devices the individual can have their needs met until another device replaces the free printed sheets you can get below.

Single Message Communicators
Here is an Alphabetical listing of some of the vendors and the names of their single message communicators. 
Static AAC Devices
Dynamic AAC Devices
Does using voice output devices/AAC/SGD impede natural speech?
Links to research articles and additional information.
Communicating with an Ipad/Itouch/Iphone
There are many apps available for communication:

  •  Meet Dennis-an iPad AAC user
  • List of Free and Inexpensive Apps for Communication (created in 2011)
  • Proloquo2GO
    The following video teaches how to edit boards using Proloquo2GO.

    Presented by Kate Moseley, AT Specialist

    on September 29, 2015

    If video is blurry, click the settings icon and change quality to 720p HD.

  • Cough Drop
    CoughDrop.com – CoughDrop is a new team-based AAC application founded here in Utah. For the past two years we’ve been working with over 50 experts around the country to make AAC simpler and more approachable, and to build supporting tools that can better enable and empower parents, therapists, and teachers to help communicators make their voices heard. Join us to learn how the unique features of CoughDrop and how you can utilize cloud technology to give you data and reporting, of the AAC experience, in real time.

    Presented by Utah Assistive Technology Teams

    on December 11th 2015

    If video is blurry, click the settings icon and change quality to 720p HD.

CoughDrop Follow-Up Training – This video shows how to set up an account, how to manage the account settings and some information about setting up the app.

Presented by Utah Assistive Technology Teams

on December 11th 2015

If video is blurry, click the settings icon and change quality to 720p HD.

For more information on Cough Drop please contact:

Scot Wahlquist
Director of Business Development
CoughDrop, Inc
(801)628-8103
www.mycoughdrop.com
scot@mycoughdrop.com
Every Voice Should Be Heard

Funding an AAC Device
Cooking, Eating and Drinking

This course provides information on various AT tools that can help an individual increase their independence in cooking, eating, and drinking.

Utensils 

Sometimes simply adapting the eating and drinking can give someone all the independence they need at the table. Follow these helpful videos and links for more information!

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Utensil Options

The following video will inform you about adaptive utensil options and how they can assist with eating.

Presented by Laura Schertz MS, OTR/L
on Jan 16 2013

If video is blurry, click the settings icon and change quality to 720p HD.

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Universal Cuff

The following video will inform you about universal cuffs and how they can assist with eating.

Presented by Laura Schertz MS, OTR/L
on Jan 16 2013

If video is blurry, click the settings icon and change quality to 720p HD.

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T Rocking Knife

The following video will inform you about T Rocking knives and how they can assist with eating.

Presented by Laura Schertz MS, OTR/L
on Jan 16 2013

If video is blurry, click the settings icon and change quality to 720p HD.

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Alternative Knife

The following video will inform you about alternative knives and how they can assist with eating.

Presented by Laura Schertz MS, OTR/L
on Jan 16 2013

If video is blurry, click the settings icon and change quality to 720p HD.

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Turned Spoon and Scoop Bowl

The following video will inform you about turned spoons and scoop bowls and how they can assist with eating.

Presented by Laura Schertz MS, OTR/L
on Jan 16 2013

If video is blurry, click the settings icon and change quality to 720p HD.

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Nosey Cup

The following video will inform you about Nosey Cups and how they can assist with drinking.

Presented by Laura Schertz MS, OTR/L
on Jan 16 2013

If video is blurry, click the settings icon and change quality to 720p HD.

Plate Options

Lipped plates, sticky table mats, and specialized bowls can really assist individuals with eating. Follow these helpful videos and links for more information!

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Ucuff and Plate Guard

The following video will inform you about Ucuffs and Plate Guards and how they can assist with eating.

Presented by Laura Schertz MS, OTR/L
on Jan 16 2013

If video is blurry, click the settings icon and change quality to 720p HD.

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Plate Options

The following video will inform you about different plate options and how they can assist with eating.

Presented by Laura Schertz MS, OTR/L
on Jan 16 2013

If video is blurry, click the settings icon and change quality to 720p HD.

Follow TASC’s board Accessibility & AT in the Kitchen on Pinterest.

ALS, Voice Banking and Speech Amplification

Voice Banking is a process individuals who are losing their voice “bank” words and phrases by recording them using a computer. For individuals who have lost their voice, relatives or friends with similar voice qualities can be used for voice banking.

Individuals with ALS benefit greatly from voice banking, but it is important to begin as soon as possible because it is hard to determine how long the voice will remain strong and intelligible.

 

 

Introduction to Voice Banking
In this lesson, you will learn what voice banking is: a process for recording words and phrases.

 

Microsoft Sound Recorder
In this lesson of the Voice Banking Module, you will learn how to use the Microsoft Sound Recorder.

 

Audacity
This lesson will guide you how to use Audacity, a free sound editing software. It is taught by Laura Parks, Assistive Technology Specialist for TASC.

 

ModelTalker 

This Software pairs perfectly with Therapy Box’s apps: Predictable and ChatAble. It also works with Windows/ Andriod based SGD

 

Augmentative and Alternative Communication

 

Speech Amplification

  • Portable PA System – This device would be great to attach to the front of your wheelchair (using industrial velcro)
  • Portable PA Sytems – Comes in different colors and a strap for around your neck

 

Apps for Communication 

  • Predictable
    • type a message using the intelligent word prediction, which learns their pattern of use, making prediction even faster. Use Nuance voices, record your own voice saying familiar phrases or use your voice banked ModelTalker voice.
    • $159.99 iPhone and iPad
    • Predictable iTunes Link
    • Predictable User Guide
  • Verbally
    • Verbally is an easy-to-use, comprehensive Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) app for the iPad. Verbally brings speech to those without and enables real conversation with its simple, intuitive design. Just tap in what you want to say and Verbally speaks for you.
    • Free or Full Version for $99.99 iPad only
    • Verbally on iTunes
  • urVoice
    • urVoice is an easy-to-use, highly customizable, affordable text-to-speech solution. You type it – urVoice speaks it or you can save it as a Quick Phrase to be used later (you can even include a picture)
    • Free Full Version for $4.99 iPhone and iPad
    • urVoice iTunes Link
  • CommunicAide
    • CommunicAide offers the largest selection of real photographs and real human voices to date for nearly any situation, as well as the ability to import your own photographs for a truly customizable experience
    • $69.99 iPad only
    • CommunicAide iTunes Link
Cyber Bullying

What is Cyberbullying and how should we deal with it? This webinar by David Lang answers those questions and more. You will be provided with resources on how to cope with cyber bullying and how you should react.

Presented by David Lang of Glenwood, Inc and the Huntsville Public Library
on September 4, 2015

If video is blurry, click the settings icon and change quality to 720p HD.

Apple Accessibility and iAccess

This module will review the accessibility features for Apple products (Mac Computers, iPads, iPods, iPhones, Apple Watches and more).

Accessibility and the iPad

The following videos will review the Accessibility features that are already programmed into the iPad. Please check the publishing dates on the videos as features may change in the future. 

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iAccessibility

There are a lot of wonderful features on Apple and iDevices that we are unaware of. Did you know that you can use your iPad with just one  switch? Are you aware that you type in braille directly on your iPad? Most people are unaware of these features. Watch the following videos and click the links below for more information

The following video is a general overview of the accessibility features in iProducts such as the iPad and iPhone. We briefly review all the categories in accessibility such as hearing, vision, motor accessibility, and guided access.

Presented by Kate Mosely, AT Specialist
on August 18, 2015

If the video is blurry, click the settings icon and change quality to 720p HD.

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Voice Over

The following video is about Voice Over for Apple products. How to turn it off and on and use all of Voice Over’s features!

Presented by Kate Moseley, AT Specialist
on August 10, 2015

If the video is blurry, click the settings icon and change quality to 720p HD.

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Switch Access

The following video is about Switch Access on the iPad. We review the settings of Switch Access, three different types of switches, and how to hook up a switch to an iPad.

Presented by Kate Moseley, AT Specialist
on July 29, 2015

If the video is blurry, click the settings icon and change quality to 720p HD.

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iAccess

The following video will teach about Alternative styluses, mounts, and switch access can help make the iPad more accessible.

Presented by Laura Parks, M.Ed., AT Specialist
on September 11, 2014

If the video is blurry, click the settings icon and change quality to 720p HD.

Related Links:

Low-Tech Solutions for Easy Access 

The following Videos will inform you about low-tech solutions to make the iPad more accessible. These videos are presented by Laura Parks, M.Ed., At Specialist

How to Make an iPad Stylus

How to Make a Home Button Stopper

Sticky Situation iPad Sleeve

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