Is Their Access Setup Ready For September?

September often brings new routines, new rooms, new staff and new support teams. For schools, therapists and families, it can also be the point where access needs become clearer again.

A switch may need repositioning. A communication aid may need updating. An eye gaze device may need checking in a new room or seating position. An iPad case may need replacing. Sensory resources may need to move to a different room or be available at different times of day.

Before the new term begins, it can help to check whether each person’s access setup still supports how they move, communicate, take part and use technology.

Switch access can change over time. A switch that worked well last year may not be the best fit for a new activity, new position or new environment.

Start by checking whether the person can still activate their switch comfortably and consistently. Think about how they use it, where it is placed, and whether the switch matches the movement they can use most reliably.

Ask:

• Can they reach the switch comfortably?
• Is the switch in a consistent position?
• Would a different size, shape or activation method help?

If their current switch no longer feels like the right fit, our Switch Access Technology range includes button, wireless and specialist switches for different movements, positions and activities.

Access is not only about the product being used. Positioning can make a big difference to how comfortably and confidently someone can take part.

If a switch, tablet, eye gaze device or communication aid is too far away, unstable or awkward to reach, the person may need to work much harder than necessary. A small change in position can make access more reliable and reduce frustration. For eye gaze users, it may also help to check screen position, seating, lighting and whether the setup works across the activities they need to access.

Ask:

• Is the switch or device placed where the person can use it comfortably?
• Is the person stretching, twisting or working too hard to access it?
• Would a mount or stand make the setup more consistent?

This is especially important when equipment needs to move between different rooms, activities or support teams. If positioning is making access harder our mounting solutions may help create a more stable setup.

The start of term brings lots of opportunities for communication. New routines, new staff, different activities and daily transitions can all create moments where someone may need to make a choice, request help, say stop, ask for more or join in.

Check whether the person has a communication setup that supports everyday participation, not just formal activities.

Ask:

• Can they request more, stop or help?
• Can they join in with greetings, songs or repeated phrases?
• Do they have a way to comment or take part in group activities?

Some people may need a simple single-message device for repeated phrases or quick participation. Others may benefit from multi-message devices, GoTalk communication aids or low-tech AAC that stays available throughout the day.

Eye gaze setups can be affected by changes in seating, positioning, lighting, room layout or the activities being used.

Before term begins, check whether the person can use their eye gaze device comfortably and accurately across the activities they need to access.

Ask:

• Can the person sit comfortably and see the screen clearly?
• Is the device positioned at the right height and distance?
• Does lighting or glare affect tracking?
• Does the setup work in the rooms or activities where it will be used?

If eye gaze access needs reviewing, our Eye Gaze Technology range includes all-in-one eye gaze options, eye gaze for iPad, eye gaze mounting and supporting accessories.

iPads and tablets are often used every day, so it is worth checking they are ready before term begins.

Protection, charging, carrying and positioning can all affect how easily technology is used. A cracked case, missing charger or awkward stand can quickly become a daily problem once routines are back in full swing.

Ask:

• Is the iPad or tablet protected from everyday knocks and drops?
• Can the person hold, carry or access it comfortably?
• Does it need a stand, mount, strap or storage solution?

If the iPad is used for communication, learning, access or entertainment, the right accessories can help make daily use more practical. Explore our dedicated iPad product range.

September can be a busy time. New environments, noise, transitions and changes in routine can all affect how someone feels and takes part.

Sensory resources can help support calming, engagement, exploration and regulation throughout the day. They can also make activities more motivating, especially when paired with light, sound, movement, texture or switch access.

Ask:

• Does the person need calming resources during the day?
• Do they respond well to light, sound, movement or texture?
• Could sensory feedback help them engage with an activity?
• Are resources available for transitions, breaks or quiet time?

Explore our Sensory range for ideas, or our blog article – ‘Sensory Ideas That Don’t Need A Refit’.

Even the right equipment can be difficult to use if the people supporting it are unsure how it should be set up.

Before term starts, it can help to make sure staff know what each item is for, where it should be positioned, how it connects and what the person is working towards.

Ask:

• Do staff know how the switch, device or aid should be used?
• Are instructions available for new team members?
• Is there a plan for checking whether the setup is still working?

This does not need to be complicated. A quick photo of the setup can be useful, especially for new staff or supply cover. You could also keep a short note with the device explaining where it should be positioned, what it connects to and what the person is working towards.

Finally, look at the practical details.

Some equipment may need replacing. Some may simply need new batteries, cables, straps, chargers or accessories. Other resources may still be useful, but need to move to a different room or be used in a new way.

Ask:

• Is anything broken, missing or difficult to use?
• Are batteries, chargers and cables available?
• Does anything need cleaning, replacing or updating?
• Are the most-used items easy to find?
• Does equipment need to move with the person?

A quick check now can help avoid delays once term begins.

Access needs can change as routines, environments and activities change.

Before the new term begins, check whether each person can access their switch or eye gaze setup, use their communication tools, reach their technology, benefit from sensory support and take part with confidence.

Small changes can make a big difference. A better position, a more suitable switch, a protective case, a simple communication aid or a sensory resource in the right place can help make everyday participation easier from the start of term.

Explore our Back To School collection for practical access, communication, sensory and technology products selected for the new term.