Getting Started

A practical, step-by-step guide to building and adapting two-button systems for access, tools, and games.

⚠️ Important Disclaimer

The Foundation does not provide medical advice, and these guides do not replace therapy. Please collaborate with licensed SLPs, OTs, or Assistive Technology specialists whenever possible.

? New to Assistive Technology? Start Here

💜 You're Not Alone

If you've recently learned that your child has cerebral palsy, or a loved one has experienced a traumatic brain injury, stroke, or progressive condition — you may be feeling overwhelmed. Words like "assistive technology" and "adaptive switches" might be completely new to you. That's okay. This section is here to gently introduce you to some basic concepts so the rest of this guide makes sense.

Whether you're a parent trying to help your child interact with the world, a caregiver supporting someone who's lost mobility, or a friend who just wants to help — you've come to the right place. The Foundation exists because we've been where you are. We understand the confusion, the grief, and the determination to find solutions.

🔤 Key Terms Explained

Assistive Technology (AT)

Any device, tool, or system that helps someone do something they otherwise couldn't do — or makes it easier. This could be as simple as a magnifying glass or as advanced as eye-tracking software. AT isn't one-size-fits-all; it's about finding what works for each person.

Switch / Adaptive Switch

A switch is simply a button that someone can press to make something happen. For people with limited mobility, specially designed "adaptive switches" can be activated with very small movements — a head tilt, a squeeze of the hand, a puff of air, or even a blink. Think of it like a customized "enter" key that works with whatever movement the person can reliably control.

Two-Switch Access (also called Step Scanning)

A common access method where one switch moves through options (or "steps" the highlight forward) and a second switch selects. This is sometimes called "step scanning" in clinical settings. Many tools — including those built by the Foundation — use this "move and select" pattern because it strikes a balance between simplicity and functionality, giving users control over timing while requiring only two reliable movements.

AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication)

Tools and strategies that help people communicate when speaking is difficult or impossible. This includes picture boards, text-to-speech apps, and devices that speak words aloud when someone selects them. AAC doesn't replace speech therapy — it supports communication in whatever form works best.

Scanning

A selection method where options are highlighted one at a time, and the user activates a switch to make a choice. In automatic scanning (single-switch), the highlight moves on its own at a set speed, and the user presses when their desired option is highlighted. In step scanning (two-switch), the user controls when the highlight moves with one switch and selects with another — offering more control but requiring two inputs.

Switch Interface / Adapter

A device that connects adaptive switches to computers, tablets, or phones. It translates the switch press into something the device understands (like a keyboard press). Some interfaces connect via USB, Bluetooth, or standard headphone-style jacks.

Direct Selection vs. Indirect Selection

Direct selection means pointing directly at what you want — like touching a screen, clicking with a mouse, or using eye gaze to look at an option. Indirect selection (like scanning) means choosing from options as they're presented to you. Some people can use direct selection with adaptive tools (like a head mouse or eye tracker), while others need indirect methods like switch scanning. An AT specialist can help determine which approach works best.

Every person's needs are unique.

There's no single "right" solution — just the one that works for your loved one. The guide below will help you explore options and discover what's possible. Take your time, ask questions, and remember: small steps lead to big changes.

Before diving in, please note:

NARBE Foundation is not an AAC manufacturer or therapy provider. There are already many excellent free and open-source AAC systems available such as CoughDrop, Cboard, WeaveChat, and AsTeRICS Grid.

The Foundation's focus is on building community, sharing education, and providing free accessible tools and games that help people regain independence through play, creativity, and personal choice. If you're specifically interested in developing comprehensive AAC systems, the Foundation recommends exploring OpenAAC.org.

While the Foundation includes some AAC-style tools and options, the mission is centered on giving people ways to enjoy, explore, and express themselves using technology that fits their unique abilities and interests. For example, in Benny's Hub, there's a simple keyboard and phrase + media board to give communication options while browsing games — enhancing quality of life through both play and communication.

Everyone's journey is different. What worked for the founders' brother Ben may not work for everyone. Ben already understood language, spelling, and technology before he became nonspeaking and quadriplegic. Progress depends on many factors, so please view this guide as inspiration, not instruction.

While results may vary depending on individual needs, the Foundation is committed to making these resources accessible and user-friendly.

🚀 Already have a device? Try Built-in Switch Access First

Before building custom solutions, it's worth exploring the built-in switch access features already available on iOS and Android devices. These free tools let you control your phone or tablet using external switches — no extra apps or coding required.

This is a great place to start if you want to see what's possible with minimal setup. You might find the built-in features work well for your needs!

iOS Switch Control Guide

Apple's official setup guide for iPhone & iPad
Android Switch Access Guide

Google's official setup guide for Android devices

Tip: If the built-in features don't quite fit your needs, or you want more customization, continue with the steps below to explore DIY and AI-powered solutions.

Step 1. Start with the person — not the technology

Everything begins with the individual. Don't build for them, build with them.

Take time to involve the person in every decision. Ask questions, observe reactions, and explore what brings them joy or engagement.

Ask together:

  • What kinds of games, shows, or media do they like?
  • What movements are most comfortable and repeatable?
  • How do they show excitement, frustration, or preference?
  • Do they want something calm and creative, or active and challenging?

Even small choices—like picking a song or selecting a favorite video—can build confidence and spark connection.

Step 2. Identify possible input methods

The input method is simply how someone interacts with a device. The right one unlocks everything else.

Examples include:

  • Switches and buttons – Jelly Bean, Buddy Button, or DIY builds.
  • Head and Facial tracking – SmartNav, TrackIR, or open-source options like Camera Mouse.
  • Eye tracking – GazeRecorder or OptiKey.
  • Facial gesture control – tools that detect smiles, blinks, or eyebrow raises like Cephable.
  • Joysticks and adaptive controllers – such as the Xbox Adaptive Controller.
  • Sip-and-puff – breath-based control.

Start simple and focus on what feels natural and reliable for them. Fatigue and comfort matter more than fancy hardware.

Step 3. Connect your input device

Switches and adaptive controllers can connect through:

  • USB switch adapters or DIY microcontrollers
  • Xbox Adaptive Controller or Microsoft Adaptive Hub

Make sure everything is mounted securely and within easy reach. The best setups come from testing and adjusting together.

Hardware costs can add up quickly. Commercial adaptive switches often range from $60-200+ each. Fortunately, there are excellent resources for affordable and DIY alternatives.

Recommended resources for budget-friendly hardware:

  • Switched Toys – A comprehensive resource for affordable adaptive switches and DIY tutorials.
  • Makers Making Change – An open-source community that designs and shares accessible technology solutions.
  • Adafruit – A great source for microcontrollers, buttons, sensors, and components for building custom adaptive devices.

Step 4. Explore free accessible tools and games

Try existing options before building new ones. Experimenting helps discover what styles and features work best.

  • Benny's Hub – Free web-based games, a media picker, and simple communication tools made for one or two switches.
  • OneSwitch.org.uk – A massive library of switch-accessible games and DIY guides.
  • SpecialEffect – A nonprofit helping people play games through adaptive setups.
  • AbleGamers – Building connection and confidence through play.

Games and entertainment are often the most natural entry points into independence. They turn learning and communication into something fun and motivating.

Step 5. Add AAC-style options if needed

If you want to include communication alongside play, try some open tools:

  • AsTeRICS Grid – Open-source, fully customizable AAC grids.
  • Cboard – Free, web-based AAC with symbol libraries.
  • CoughDrop – Cloud-based AAC that syncs across devices.

The Foundation often blends simple AAC functions into games and apps so users can express themselves while playing.

Step 6. Use AI to build or personalize your own tools

AI tools like ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, or Copilot can walk you through the entire process of building accessible tools—even if you've never written a single line of code. The key is learning how to have a conversation with the AI and ask the right questions.

🎯 Guiding Principles for Working with AI

1. Start with your goal, not the technology

Don't worry about code or technical details at first. Simply describe what you want to accomplish in plain language. The AI will help figure out the best approach.

2. Describe the person and their abilities

Tell the AI about the user—what inputs they can use (switches, eye gaze, voice), what they enjoy, and any limitations to consider. The more context you provide, the better the suggestions.

3. Ask "how would I..." questions

When you're stuck, just ask! "How would I make this work with only one button?" or "How would I add sound when they make a selection?" The AI can explain concepts and suggest approaches.

4. Build one small piece at a time

Don't try to build everything at once. Start with the most basic version that works, test it, then ask the AI to help you add features one by one.

5. It's okay to say "I don't understand"

If the AI gives you something confusing, ask it to explain in simpler terms or break it into smaller steps. You can say "Explain that like I'm a complete beginner" or "Can you walk me through this step by step?"

6. Share what happened and iterate

When something doesn't work, describe what happened. "When I press the button, nothing happens" or "The sound plays but it's too quiet." The AI can help troubleshoot and refine.

💬 Example Conversation Starters

Here are some ways to begin a conversation with an AI assistant:

"I want to create a simple game for someone who can only use two switches. They love music. Can you help me think through what kind of game would work well?"
"I need a menu system where pressing one button cycles through options and another button selects. Can you walk me through how to build this?"
"I have no coding experience. What's the simplest way to create a picture board that speaks the name of each picture when selected?"
"The timing on this game is too fast for my brother. How can I add a way to adjust the speed?"

🔄 The Build-Test-Adjust Loop

Creating accessible tools is an iterative process:

  1. Build a simple version with the AI's help
  2. Test it with the actual user and observe their reactions
  3. Note what works, what's frustrating, and what brings joy
  4. Return to the AI and describe what you observed
  5. Adjust based on real feedback, then test again

Each cycle gets you closer to something truly personalized. The person using the tool becomes your guide—their reactions tell you what to improve.

💡 Remember: You don't need to become a programmer. You just need to learn how to describe what you want and ask good questions. The AI handles the technical parts—you bring the understanding of what the person needs.

Step 7. Keep building community and sharing

You don't have to do this alone. The community is here to help you learn, share, and grow.

Join the community to:

  • Share your creations or ideas
  • Get feedback and advice
  • Learn to build your own games or tools
  • Connect with families, educators, and developers

Accessibility grows through community collaboration.

Join the community, ask questions, and share what works so others can build on it.

Join the Discord