The BIGmack is a simple yet powerful single-message communicator designed for users who need an easy-to-use device for communication or interactive activities. This versatile tool allows you to record speech, music, or any sound in just a few seconds, making it ideal for introducing users to sound recording technology. Whether you’re recording a repeated phrase from a story or a line from a song, the BIGmack enables users to play back the message at the right moment by simply pressing the large button.
BIGmack: A Simple, Effective Communicator for Quick and Easy Messaging
The BIGmack is perfect for a variety of uses, including quick communication, storytelling, or even interactive play with toys and appliances. With its large, easy-to-press button, the BIGmack is ideal for individuals with limited dexterity or motor control, providing a simple way to engage in communication or play.
Key Features:
Large single-button design for easy activation and playback of recorded messages, ensuring quick and clear communication.
2 minutes of recording time, offering ample space for storing messages, phrases, or sounds.
Adjustable volume control and an on/off switch, allowing for convenient and flexible use in various settings.
Toy/appliance jack and cable included, making the BIGmack an interactive tool for connecting with external toys or devices for play-based learning.
Comes with interchangeable tops in red, blue, yellow, and green, providing personalization options to suit the user’s preferences.
External switch jack for use with specialty switches, making the device accessible for users with more specific physical needs.
Powered by 1 x 9V battery (included), ensuring the device is ready to use straight out of the box.
Dimensions: 16cm x 4.5cm x 17cm, making it compact and easy to handle.
Our Matrix Maker Plus software is available for just £129 when purchased with any communication aid valued at £100 or more. This software allows users to create custom picture overlays that provide visual support for the recorded messages.
We’ve created an easy comparison on how the BIGmack compares with the BIG Step-by-Step:
Feature
BIGmack
BIG Step-by-Step
Product Type
Single-message communication device
Sequential messaging communication device
Message Capacity
1 recorded message
Multiple recorded messages in sequence
Recording Time
Up to 2 minutes
Up to 2 minutes total for all messages
Activation Surface Size
5-inch diameter
5-inch diameter
Switch Input
Yes
Yes
Switch Output
Yes
Yes
Usage Scenario
Ideal for single-message communication
Ideal for step-by-step instructions or storytelling
Dimensions
16cm x 4.5cm x 17cm
16cm x 4.5cm x 17cm
Technical Support
The manufacturer highly recommendeds using a disposable (non-rechargeable) alkaline 9V battery with this device. Alternative batteries may be comprised of materials that do not distribute power in a suitable manner, and when installed, some users may experience inconsistencies.
If you suspect there may be a fault with your device (e.g. if message recording or playback is inconsistent), please first try installing a new battery before contacting our Support team.
This device has a two year manufacturer's warranty. If any issues arise during this time, please contact [email protected].
The BIGmack is a versatile communication device that enables individuals with disabilities to communicate with a single message at the press of a large, easy-to-activate button. Here are several engaging activities that can be done with the BIGmack, especially suited for educational and interactive settings:
1. Daily Greetings
Setup: Record a greeting like "Hello, how are you?" or "Good morning!"
Activity: Encourage users to greet classmates, family members, or caregivers by pressing the BIGmack at the start of each day, promoting social interaction and practicing communication.
2. Choice-Making
Setup: Record choices such as “I want more” or “I’m finished.”
Activity: Use the BIGmack during snack time, activities, or games, allowing users to make choices by pressing the button, which fosters independence and decision-making skills.
3. Requesting Assistance
Setup: Record phrases like "I need help, please" or "Can you come here?"
Activity: The BIGmack can act as a quick and effective way for users to request assistance, encouraging self-advocacy and independence.
4. Storytelling or Participating in Stories
Setup: Record a repetitive line from a book or story, such as “Run, run as fast as you can!” for The Gingerbread Man.
Activity: During group story time, users can press the BIGmack at key moments, actively participating in the storytelling, building literacy skills, and enhancing engagement.
5. Group Games and Activities
Setup: Record simple instructions or sounds, such as "Your turn!" or “Great job!”
Activity: The BIGmack can help users take part in group games, providing them with a way to communicate and interact with peers, making activities like board games or circle time inclusive.
6. Song Lyrics or Repetitive Phrases in Music
Setup: Record a line from a song, like “Old McDonald had a farm, E-I-E-I-O.”
Activity: Play interactive music sessions where the user presses the BIGmack to join in on familiar lyrics, enhancing rhythm, language development, and enjoyment in music.
7. Step-by-Step Instructions for Routines
Setup: Record each step of a routine, such as washing hands ("First, turn on the water" or "Now, use soap").
Activity: During daily routines, users can press the BIGmack to hear the next step, reinforcing routines, developing memory, and fostering independence.
8. Emotion Expression
Setup: Record a phrase like "I feel happy" or "I feel tired."
Activity: This allows users to express their emotions, helping build emotional literacy, communication, and self-awareness.
9. Sensory Exploration
Setup: Record sounds that align with sensory objects or activities, like "Soft" or “This feels bumpy.”
Activity: Pair the BIGmack with sensory play activities, where users press the button to describe textures or actions, enhancing vocabulary and sensory engagement.
10. Interactive Scavenger Hunt
Setup: Record clues like “Look for something red” or “Find something soft.”
Activity: Create a fun scavenger hunt where users follow audio cues to find items around the room, promoting physical activity, listening skills, and problem-solving.
The BIGmack is flexible enough to support social interaction, decision-making, communication, and independence in a variety of settings, making it an invaluable resource for classrooms, therapy, and home learning.
When selecting an Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) device for individuals with speech disabilities, two popular options come to mind: the BIGmack and the BIG Step-by-Step.
Switch users need a wide range of learning materials to help develop their skills. These materials can also be used with a plasma screen or whiteboard, touch monitor or mouse.
Giving a voice to every child is essential. For young learners struggling to communicate, Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices can be transformative.