Playing with Switches:

ad-based AAC apps, users may choose to use the switch settings available on either the operating system level or within the app. Controlling one's environment and engaging in leisure is a way to further develop independence. With the rise of connect- ed and smart home technologies, the ability to control so much of the home environment is now possible using these same switches at a much lower cost than previously available. Devices such as the PowerLink, provide the user the ability to activate appliances throughout the home. Most smart home devices also come with companion apps that can be switch-activated providing an additional method of controlling the environment. Switching TV channels and viewing options as well as selecting and playing music is now readily possible using the accessibility settings within AppleTV or connecting devices such as the Puck to navigate a TV that does not have “smart” capabilities. These same systems also allow the user to scan through apps to order groceries and takeout. Switch navigating through apps allows individuals to not only use this technology as a consumer but become a creator. Switch control may be used for visual creativity such as photography, video recording/editing, and digital arts such as graphic design using more complex switch gestures on iOS. Music creation us- ing commercially available apps and exploring keyboard-acces- sible websites such as Experiments with Google provides new opportunities for expressing creativity. Creating social connections outside of the caregiver network is now possible through the growing world of adaptive gaming. One of the most popular accessibility devices for gaming, the Adaptive Controller, was developed by Xbox to support switch access. This device also features Copilot which allows a compan- ion to navigate the joystick while the user activates the switch as a button presses. The success of this device is leading other con- sole developers to follow suit and create their own hardware. Playstation recently announced Project Leonardo, an accessible controller with four 3.5mm AUX ports to support a variety of external switches and third-party accessibility accessories. A di- verse number of organizations such as AbleGamers are working towards breaking down barriers in this world of adaptive gam- ing both on the hardware and software side. Although most console games may be fast-paced and com- plex for emerging gamers, some entry-level options are available via games from HelpKidzLearn, web-based games, and through purchases from vendors like Marblesoft. Additionally, there are a few web-based platforms like Scratch and Makecode Arcade that are available to allow for the custom creation of games us- ing block-based code to adjust for many gaming variables like timing, visual complexity, and activation methods. These plat- forms allow games to be played on any computer or mobile device and are keyboard and switch accessible if programmed correctly. Requesting an Uber or other rideshare using switch scan- ning can certainly be done, but the logistics of finding an ac-

cessible van may be a barrier. However, it is possible to drive a power wheelchair using single, two, or even an array of adaptive switches. Two examples of switch use for power mobility are us- ing a head array which is made of three proximity switches and using a sip and puff switch. CLOSING It is not every day or even every year that you have that mo- ment when someone you are working with can do something independently using assistive technology. Sometimes the sim- plest click of a switch, tap of a button, or blink of an eye can open the door to pathways of possibilities. It is important as clinicians to encourage early learning accessible play and consider the use of adaptive switch technology as it can provide that hope that someone is looking for to give them access to the world of inde- pendence they truly deserve. We would like to leave you with a poem written by Kiley McDonnell, a student at the Henry Viscar- di School, describing her journey through this process:

BUTTERFLY BY KILEY I felt sad I was stuck I could think But couldn't move People talked around me About me As if I weren’t there But I was there Listening and learning Unable to say a word. I could move my eyes Raise my brow And hope the answer Was a Yes or No Then someone came And broke me free To flick a finger Move a knee I learnt to scan Click a switch Change TV channels Music stations Facetime grandma Use You Tube I now have ways to talk By tweet and text Use my device To Explore To Connect And Express My thoughts are unique Experiences too I soar in JOY As my world expands I feel special I feel free Glad to be free Glad to be me I could see the world Now the world sees me

BACK TO CONTENTS

Made with FlippingBook Ebook Creator