Friday, January 21, 2011

Smooth Talker

The new Smooth Talker is a sequential message switch that can also be used for a single switch or random order messages.  Total message time is two minutes.  The Smooth Talker can be activated with an external switch (wireless switch capability included), be set to use as a cooperation switch and be used as an auditory scanning device (author's comment - OMG!  Finally!).  Additionally you can use it like a standard switch to activate adapted toys and devices.


Here are the specs from Inclusive TLC:
  • Two minutes recording time.
  • Two loud speakers.
  • 1.4 watt amplifier.
  • Fits standard Big Switch mounting plates.
  • Built-in Simply Works wireless technology.
  • 9v PP3 batteries required.
  • Easy programming using LED mode indicators.
  • Volume control with on/off button.
  • 3.5mm switch input socket.
  • 3.5mm toy control socket.
  • Available in red, blue, yellow and green.
  • Toy control label supplied.
The only thing I don't see is a means to hold a picture symbol in place on the Smooth Talker.

The Smooth Talker retails for $165.00.

Saturday, January 8, 2011

Professional Development Resolutions?

Did you make a new years resolution to improve your practice as a teacher?  Or maybe you need CEUs?  Or you might just love going to conferences?  Here is a list of some places to find professional development for those who teach individuals with severe or multiple disabilities.
The following agencies may offer local conferences or courses:
Other places to find professional development:
  • local children's hospitals
  • local universities
  • disability specific organizations (Down Syndrome Congress, Rett Syndrome Foundation, etc)
  • special education agencies (collaboratives, intermediate units, BOCES, etc) and schools
  • state department of education or disabilities

Friday, December 31, 2010






This week Teaching Learners with Multiple Special Needs reached 1,000,000 visitors!

Thursday, December 16, 2010

Wednesday, December 8, 2010

Trabasack Portable Lap






Ok, technically it is a tray/bag, but in my classroom we call it a "lap".  The Trabasack is an innovative bag that doubles as a lap desk and has the option of a Velcro accepting surface.

We use our Trabasack everyday, especially for activities away from our group table, like music therapy.  Using the trabasack instead of a tray makes it easier to "see" the student instead of the equipment because it is smaller and looks more natural than a tray.

The Velcro accepting surface allows us to attach switches and smaller communication devices as well as preferred leisure items like an iPod or fine motor activity.

Although we don't use ours as a bag very often it is wonderful that it can carry switches, symbols and sensory items while hanging on the back of a wheelchair and then be used as a tray to access those items.  (I wish we had the Trabasack last school year when we went on a field trip to the movies, using it to attach sensory items would have helped one of my students stay calm and happy.)

The Trabasack is available in two sizes:


Trabasack Curve – curved edge hugs the body’s contours, helps to keeps hands and elbows on the surface
Size: 39 x 37 x 7.5cm.
Trabasack Mini – rectangular, A4 size, fits smaller chairs.
Size: 33 x 25 x 7.5cm.

Connect – Is a tray cover option.
A super soft Velcro tray top. Use it to securely position and reposition switches toys etc.
(And would make a great holiday gift!)


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