AdaptAbilities Gift Card

Switch adapted toys and devices have been adapted so that their original switches, which are often small and hidden, are rewired to connect to a larger switch which is easier to interact with.

For those with physical and intellectual disabilities, especially for young children, switch adapted toys provide a level of independence and growth that can boost their confidence, give them space to learn and play without needing help from others. Switch adapted toys can give them valuable experiences they often can’t have with non-adapted toys.

Switch adapted toys or devices usually need a special adaptive switch to operate them. Each AdaptAbilities toy or device is fitted with an input jack that fits a standard 3.5mm adaptive switch. Simply plugging in a compatible adaptive switch allows the toy or device to function just as with the original switch.

Unlike some adapted toys on the market, AdaptAbilities maintains each toy’s original on/off switch function, so, yes, both the adaptive switch and original switch will work.

The toy or device itself may require batteries as specified by the product, however, the adapted switch will typically not require additional power or batteries to function.

Standard 3.5 mm adaptive (also called accessibility or capability) switches are traditionally used by individuals with disabilities to activate switch adapted toys and devices. Depending on the user's abilities, additional switches are available for different purposes, including: finger switches, foot switches and button switches of many different sizes and varieties.

Some switches have special textural coverings such as soft fabric, "squishy" latex, “pom-pom,” or patterns of bumps for the visually impaired. Choosing the right switch depends on the user's muscle tone, spasticity, visual ability, cognitive function, and interests. The most important thing is that the switch is compatible with a 3.5mm input jack. This is true of most adaptive switches available on the market today.