OTHER “MUST HAVE” ACCESS TOOLS Timer Boxes : Some activities require quick switch hits and releases, like reading books. Other activities require students to hold down the switch for an extended period of time, like when cutting out a picture using switch adapted scissors. If holding a switch down is challenging for a student, a switch latch & timer box allows you to set a designated amount of time the tool will stay on with just one switch hit. These can be found www. adaptivation.com. Battery Interrupters: There are many wonderful vendors that sell toys which are already switch adapted, such as Adaptive Tech Solutions, Inclusive TLC, Adapted Creations on Etsy and Enabling Devices. However, you can also buy a battery-operated toy and switch adapt it yourself! You can do this with a “battery interrupter.” You can buy a battery interrupter online or get one from a local Makers’ group. There are also DIY directions online.
physical participation, they are not the sole determining factor of effectiveness. Ultimately, what holds the most significance is the meaningfulness of the activities and the social interaction. You don’t need to have a lot of fancy AT to get started...and it doesn’t all need to be on the computer! At iHope, our program has a basic set of AT tools, but we use them for MANY different purposes. We are going share our favorite classroom tools, from walking toys, computer and iPad switch interfaces, alternative pencils, PowerLink, to switch adapted scissors, pour cups, ball throwers and other toys. Once you start seeing these ideas– you'll come up with many more of your own! CONCLUSION: We hope this article inspires your team to 'Switch it Up'. Taking the time to understand your students’unique needs, motivations and interests can spark countless ideas for accessible activities. The enthusiasm for discovering new ways to engage students becomes infectious among team members, fostering growth for both students and those who support them!
AT for the Activities While switches and other technologies allow open doors to
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