NARBE Foundation Resources
Guides, downloads, and tutorials to help you build accessible technology solutions
Our Goal
We believe everyone deserves access to communication and play. Whether you're a caregiver, educator, or developer, the tools below can help you begin your journey toward building or discovering the right solutions for your loved one.
We encourage families to start with free or low-cost options before investing in expensive commercial systems. The right tool is always the one your loved one can actually use and enjoy.
Free & Low Cost AAC Tools and Platforms We Recommend
These are some of the best free and open-source AAC platforms available today. We suggest exploring these before anything else, as they give you a strong foundation in how AAC systems work.
OpenAAC.org
A community-driven hub dedicated to open-source AAC. It's a great place to discover free software, symbol sets, and shared projects designed to make communication more accessible for everyone.
WeaveChat
A modern web-based AAC platform that allows users to chat, share messages, and connect through simple, customizable communication boards. Great for users who want a conversational, social AAC experience.
CoughDrop
A flexible AAC app that runs on almost any device. It has a free trial and an open approach to sharing and editing boards, making it easy to explore AAC layouts and vocabularies.
Cboard
An entirely free, open-source AAC app that works in your browser and on mobile. It includes text-to-speech, symbol-based communication, and multilingual support — perfect for getting started quickly.
AsTeRICS Grid
A powerful open-source communication grid system that's completely customizable. You can host it locally, modify it for your needs, and connect it to assistive input devices — ideal for those who want full control and flexibility.
Hardware Resources for Affordable & DIY Solutions
Commercial adaptive hardware can be expensive, with switches ranging from $60-200+ each and mounting systems costing hundreds more. These resources provide affordable alternatives and DIY solutions to help you get started without breaking the bank.
Why DIY Hardware Matters
Many families need adaptive switches and mounting solutions but face significant cost barriers with commercial products. The DIY approach not only saves money but also allows for complete customization to meet specific physical needs and preferences.
Starting with simple, affordable solutions helps you understand what works before investing in more expensive equipment. Many families find their DIY solutions work just as well as commercial alternatives.
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. Includes step-by-step instructions for everything from basic button switches to more complex adaptive devices, plus reviews of commercial options and modification techniques.
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. All designs are free to download and modify, with an active community providing support and sharing improvements.
Adafruit
A reliable source for components, microcontrollers, sensors, and maker gear. Their Learn guides walk you through projects step by step, which is great for building adaptive switches, USB HID inputs, and simple assistive tools. A community favorite for AAC makers is the TRRS Trinkey USB key for assistive technology.
Getting Started with DIY Hardware:
- Simple button switches – Convert large arcade buttons or even doorbell buttons into effective switches with basic wiring
- 3D printed housings – Use community designs to create custom switch enclosures that fit specific needs
- Mounting solutions – Build adjustable mounts using PVC pipe, clamps, and basic hardware store materials
- Pressure-sensitive switches – Create switches activated by head movement, foot pressure, or hand placement
The key is finding what works reliably for your person's specific movement patterns and comfort needs. Start simple, test thoroughly, and build complexity gradually.
Ben's Two-Button Setup
Here are the exact parts and files we use so you can replicate the build quickly.
TRRS Trinkey (Adafruit)
USB key that acts as a simple HID interface for assistive switches. Plugs right into a USB port and is easy to program.
3.5mm Stereo to Mono Splitter
Splits left and right channels so you can connect two single-switch inputs with standard 3.5 mm plugs.
Switched Toys Switches
Affordable, reliable switches with community-tested designs. Good for head-turn or light-pressure activation.
NARBE House | Benny's Trinkey Setup Files
Code and configuration for the TRRS Trinkey so you can map two switches to keyboard inputs and get running fast.
Switch-Based Games and Interactive Resources
One of the primary reasons we founded NARBE Foundation was to ensure Ben and others like him could access engaging games and interactive experiences through simple switch controls. Play is essential for development, learning, and joy.
Why Switch Gaming Matters
Traditional games often require complex motor skills that many individuals cannot perform. Switch-accessible games level the playing field, allowing anyone to participate in digital play through one or two simple button presses.
We curate and host games created by both professional developers and passionate community members. Our collection continues to grow as we evaluate new games and possibilities for accessible play.
Benny's Accessibility Hub by NARBE House
NARBE House collection of switch-accessible games and interactive tools. Built with love for Ben and shared with families worldwide. These games are designed specifically for two-switch access and focus on fun, engagement, and skill development.
One Switch
A comprehensive resource for switch-accessible games, software, and hardware information. This UK-based site has been supporting the switch gaming community for years with reviews, tutorials, and a vast library of accessible gaming options.
Building Your Own Assistive Tools and Games
If you want to go beyond existing tools and build something personal for your loved one, there are now more ways than ever to get started — even if you're not a programmer.
Important Note: AI tools listed below are typically paid platforms but many have free plans. You have to do what you're comfortable with. The platforms below are just examples and not recommendations — there are many more coming online daily and we want you to explore on your own.
We've had great success using AI-assisted app builders and coding companions to guide families through the process of building their own tools. While we don't directly link to AI systems, tools like ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini can help you brainstorm, design, and even write simple code for your ideas.
Visual, No-Code Builders to Explore:
If you prefer visual, no-code builders, here are a few platforms you can explore. These are simply mentions so you can search for them yourself:
- Lovable - An AI-powered no-code builder that helps you turn an idea into a web app in minutes
- Glide Apps - Turns Google Sheets into mobile apps without any coding
- Thunkable - A beginner-friendly platform for building mobile apps visually
- Adalo - A drag-and-drop app builder focused on accessibility and usability
- Bubble - A more advanced visual app builder that supports logic, data storage, and full interactivity
📘 Guides and Tutorials
Step-by-step guides to help families and creators build custom AAC solutions.
NARBE House's Guide and Lessons Learned
Our family's journey building custom AAC solutions for Ben. This guide shares the principles, lessons learned, and practical approaches we used - written by the NARBE House family, not professionals. Includes 15 chapters covering everything from understanding individual needs to building with AI assistance, plus real-world implementation strategies learned through our experience.
More guides coming soon:
- Hardware setup and mounting guide
- DIY switch building tutorial
- AI-assisted app development walkthrough
- Caregiver training materials
- Emergency backup system planning
💬 Join Our Community
If you have questions, ideas, or just need help getting started, join our NARBE Foundation Discord. It's a welcoming space where caregivers, developers, and creators share resources, build accessible tools, and help one another grow.