You have truly opened access to a world of self reliance for students in my classroom. 9 students have been touched by your generosity and soon more will be. Locked in bodies that they cannot control, reliant on adults for every single aspect of their lives. You have opened the world to them. I believe that all my students, with the right supports, desire to be self reliant. They want and need to make their own choices and control some aspect of their daily lives. Now they can - thanks to you!
I'd like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank you for your generous donation to my classroom. I teach medically fragile children who have extremely limited use of their extremities. The resources you provided have enabled my students to access items that they would be unable to on their own. By using adaptive buttons and switches they are now able to control a desired leisure activity.
When students were first exposed to the new items their smiles lit up the room. They were amazed at the bubbles and lights. The walking and flipping dog was a big hit. Music is also an amazing tool as students are alert and attentive rather then sleeping when they can operate a musical item.
Students use the bubble machine, music, disco lights and animated stimulating toys during their leisure time, they make choices by choosing the desired item using eye gaze and then I set up the switches. Some students use their hands, their chin, even their feet to operate the switches. During social emotional learning times, they focus on the disco lights and bubbles to regulate breathing. They work with a peer, to encourage socialization, with one student operating the activity and taking turns with it.
One student who is blind, now uses the bubble machine, paired with a switch, to turn the machine on. The smiles and laughter that she exhibits upon feeling the bubbles on her face is absolutely priceless. Another student who has no movement of his arms, is now able to use his chin to activate a switch which turns on the disco lights. He squeals with delight. For the first time in his life he can control something that he desires.
The vibrating pillows help to divert the attention of the students when they are in pain. Spending an entire day in a wheelchair with contracted muscles leads to constant pain. The pillows help to release some of their pain.
Students need to first learn cause and effect relationships prior to fully accessing augmentative communication systems. The items you provided are quickly teaching them how cause and effect works. We spend time everyday using the variety of items to teach this valuable skill.
Next steps for these materials include expanding access for other students who will benefit from this experience. There are at least 4 other classes with students who need access to the materials you have provided. Students who become skilled at using the switches will begin to use communication systems so they can further their impact on the world.”
With gratitude,
Ms. Tuifel