Getting Started

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

⚠️ Important Disclaimer

We are not medical professionals and our guides do not replace therapy or medical advice. Please collaborate with licensed SLPs, OTs, or Assistive Technology specialists whenever possible.

How To Get Started

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.

Our 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, we recommend exploring OpenAAC.org — a community-driven hub dedicated to open-source AAC development.

While we include some AAC-style tools and options, our 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 our brother Ben may not work for you. Ben already understood language, spelling, and technology before he became nonverbal and quadriplegic. Progress depends on many factors, so please view this guide as inspiration, not instruction.

We make no guarantees — your mileage may vary.

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 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.
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, and mounting systems can cost hundreds more. 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, DIY tutorials, and switch-adapted toys. They offer detailed guides for building your own switches using common materials, often for under $20.
Makers Making Change – An open-source community that designs and shares accessible technology solutions. Their library includes 3D-printable switch housings, mounting systems, and complete DIY adaptive devices with step-by-step instructions.

Many families start with simple DIY solutions – even a large button from an electronics store can be converted into an effective switch with basic wiring. The key is finding what works reliably for your person's specific movement and comfort needs.

Step 4. Explore free accessible tools and games

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

NARBE House | 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.

Our foundation often blends simple AAC functions into our 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, Gemini, or Copilot can help you create personalized projects, even if you've never coded before.

For example:

"Create a two-button menu where Space moves and Enter selects. Add text-to-speech for each option."

Start there and build slowly. Add sound effects, visuals, or animations based on what the person enjoys. Let them test and react—then adjust accordingly.

Each small success builds toward something meaningful.

Step 7. Keep building community and sharing

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

Join us to:

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

Every idea or project you share could inspire someone else to begin their journey.

Accessibility grows when we build it together.