Pediatric Assistive Technology Switches, Inclusive Learning Devices, Augmentative Communication

What is Pediatric Assistive Technology?

Pediatric assistive technology is inclusive of tools and strategies commonly used to help children with disabilities to participate more independently in school, play and life. They can include assistive technology augmentative communication devices, assistive technology switches, battery interrupters, and inclusive learning devices.

What are Assistive Technology Switches?

Assistive technology switches are at the core of access technology. They can appear to some as a simple button, but they can open a world of access to computer software, communication devices, environmental controls, and even some mobile devices for those who are disabled in some way. There is a diverse assortment of switches that make activities easier, and they are perfect for those who struggle with motor control issues, as they enable users to be more independent.

To name a few applications, switches can help control such things as sequential message communications, computer functions and environmental controls. The many different types of switches include small button, large button, sip/puff, foot switches, face movement and even movement sensor switches. Some switches can be directly plugged into a computer, or a switch interface may be used. There are power interrupters that can help with access to things that need to be plugged in, and there are also wireless switches available.

A single switch can be connected to a variety of technologies or equipment. Although they are small and seem very simplistic, they help to adapt a huge range of devices for those with disabilities so they can engage and participate in activities. A switch can give individuals control over their environment, something they may otherwise not be able to achieve without it in place. There are many switches designed in a unique fashion so they can be used to enable an individual to do specific things which would not be possible if the switch was not there. When an appropriate switch is selected for a child, it will give access to opportunities that would have previously been denied. The use of a switch will enable a child to become mobile, turn something on or off, play with cause and effect toys, and even communicate. The switch can give a type of access to a child that other people normally take for granted. To put it simply, a switch is a tool for access to a child’s world.

How are Assistive Technology Switches Utilized?

Some ways that assistive switches can be used are in communication, computer access, inclusion in educational and leisure activities, and for accessing toys. Some children who use an electronic communication device also depend on an adaptive switch in order to operate the device. In some instances, the switch is used to scan through message options. Other children may use a switch that is recordable with single and multiple messages. If a child is unable to access the device directly, most communication devices are switch accessible. To connect a switch to a computer, an adaptive switch interface is needed. For computer input, children who are unable to use a keyboard or mouse may need to use an adaptive switch. Children can use a scanning method for entering text and commands, or it may be for a simple cause and effect type of program access.

Inclusion in educational and leisure activities is another area adaptive switches are helpful. They can be used to enable children with physical disabilities to participate in activities, instead of being a passive observer. For example, a switch operated game spinner allows all children to take part in many board games. Also, when combined with an AC control unit, an adaptive switch can allow access to small appliances in the home or in the classroom.

Play is a critical part of childhood, and accessing toys with switches bridges the gap. Children with disabilities may have difficulty interacting with people and objects due to the barriers that their disability causes. Innovative ideas must be found that promote new ways of participating and playing in daily activities because these children may be restricted in the ways they communicate, play and move. Assistive technology can provide new opportunities for children to interact with and control their environment. One way is to connect an adapter and a switch to a simple battery operated toy. This can provide a way for a child to make the toy function independently. It can also help the child take part in playing with other kids and siblings.

What is Augmentative Communication?

For those with speech impairments, augmentative communication is a form of accessible communication. Using augmentative communication can help an individual at any level of cognitive ability enjoy more freedom. It also helps their ability to communicate with other people, to do everything from writing books to indicating that it is time for a meal. Augmentative communication is also known as AAC (augmentative and alternative communication), which is very diverse. One form is sign language, which is familiar to many people. Other forms can include the use of communication books which feature images that can be pointed to, along with letter boards which are used to spell out words. It can also include the use of numbers to symbolize concepts, the development of codes, and various gestures.

Some augmentative communication systems work independently, allowing the child to communicate without an assistant or caregiver, while others are made to be used with another’s assistance. It is important for family members and friends to be familiar with the systems used for AAC so they can communicate easily. Those who are unfamiliar with AAC technology sometimes find it difficult to interact with someone who uses it. To make it easier, it is important to focus on the child doing the communicating, even if a device or aid is actually making the speech sounds. It also helps to use a comfortable communication style; if the child can nod but not speak, he or she could be asked yes or no questions which could be answered without the use of an AAC device.

Rehabmart is proud to carry a comprehensive selection of innovative pediatric assistive technology switches from high quality vendors, including Experia-USA, Ablenet, Adaptivation, Enabling Devices, and TFH.

Hulet Smith, OT
Rehabmart Co-Founder & CEO

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