It's that time of year again- Some helpful Thanksgiving Tips!

Thanksgiving is a special time of year where we spend time with family and friends and reflect on what we are grateful for. It is important to introduce your traditions to your family and maybe create some new ones for your child with special needs. Make them feel involved and let them know they can participate in all the holiday fun!

Here are some helpful tips for Turkey Day!

- Your child won't eat turkey? It's OK! Let them have whatever they usually eat for dinner, even if it means they will be having chicken nuggets. If this will make your child feel more comfortable, and quite frankly make it easier for you, then go for it! Thanksgiving isn't just about the turkey!

- You don't have to conform to the "norm". What is the "norm" anyway? Let your child pick out their own outfit. Don't worry if it doesn't match, they will be happy that they were included in the decision making process.

- Make sure your child still gets their own down time during the day. Maybe think about bringing their favorite movie or music to listen to. This will help calm them down during all the holiday chaos. 

- Think about hosting the holiday at your house. Your child will be the most comfortable on their own turf. Change is very hard for some children and by having the dinner at your own house it is one less variable for them to get used to. Divide up the meal among your guests so all the pressure isn't on you.

What are your plans for this Thanksgiving?

What are your holiday traditions? 

Also if you have any helpful tips for the holidays please feel free to share!

Have a happy and healthy Thanksgiving!

"Gratitude is an inward feeling of kindness received. Thankfulness is the natural impulse to express that feeling. Thanksgiving is following that impulse." - Henry Van Dyke

www.enablingdevies.com

#NikeLetter

Matthew Walzer a 16 year old junior from Parkland, FL had a brain injury when he was born which caused him to have Cerebral Palsy. Matthew explains in his blog that he has overcome many obstacles in his life. His parents were told that he would never walk and if he ever did talk he would have a major speech impediment. Beating all odds, Matthew can walk (independently at home and with the help of crutches at school) and he never had problems with his speech. His strong passions for writing and journalism helped motivate him to excel in school with a 3.9 grade point average, and he plans to go to college in the future.

Although there is one challenge he is still trying to master- trying his shoes, "My dream is to go to the college of my choice without having to worry about someone coming to tie my shoes everyday."

Matthew reached out to the CEO of Nike Mark Parker and wrote him a letter asking to create a shoe that is better suited for a physically challenged individual. Matthew only wears Nike sneakers because of the support that he needs, "If Nike would design and produce basketball and running shoes with moderate support and some kind of closure system that could be used by everyone, Nike could create a shoe line that attracts people that face the same physical challenges I did and still do, yet it could still be possible for anyone to wear them."

Within 48 hours after writing the letter, it went viral, #NikeLetter and he received an unbelievable amount of support. Parker responded to Matthew and is now working with a team to create an existing shoe that still gives him the support he needs but redesigning it so it can be closed with Velcro. He is hoping the sneakers will be on his feet in no time!

"You miss 100% of the shots you don't take." -Wayne Gretzky

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Lights, Camera, Talkables!

We love to hear feedback from our customers and we especially love when get photos of our products in action! Today we will see Yousef with his Talkable III (2401)!

Yousef is using the Talkable III (2401) to activate three adapted toys. The Talkable also includes an icon holder which gives Yousef a choice of what he wants to activate. Attached to his Talkable, Yousef has the Curious George Jack in the Box (614), Laugh and Learn Puppy (8034) and the Vibrating Light (458).

Yousef's speech therapist explains that she loves this device because it can grow with her client over time. Yousef first started with one choice then quickly mastered the device. He is now able to activate three switch adapted toys! 

Thank you so much to Yousef and his family for sharing their story!

Have pictures or a testimonial you want to share? Email us at enablingdevices@gmail.com and maybe you will be featured in our blog!

"Go confidently in the direction of your dreams. Live the life you have imagined." - Henry David Thoreau

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iPad, Tablets, Accessories and more!!!

Tablets are becoming more and more popular and the iPad has more competition than ever! Today we are going to chat with Vinny, our Tech Support Manager, about some of the latest accessories available!

Enabling Devices Blogger: Vinny, which tablet mounts would you recommend?

Vinny: We carry three mounting options for tablets; #1556 iPad Mounting System,  #5905M iPad Sound System and #1568 Tablet Holder with Mount. The difference between the two iPad mounts is that #5905M has a built in speaker in the platform. It also comes with a table-top base. Both products are very popular because they meet the needs of many users.

#1556

#5905/5905M

We also carry #1568 Tablet Holder with Mount. This mount is adjustable so it can accomodate most tablets and e-book readers including the Kindle Fire, Kindle, Nook, Motorola Xoom, Samsung Galaxy, Asus Transformer and Google's Nexus 7. This is a great system for people who need special placement.

#1568

All the tablet mounting systems we carry are sturdy and reliable. I would highly recommend any of them!

One more item I want to quickly mention is #1562 Smart Phone Holder and Mounting Platform. This mount is compatible with most smart phones including the iPhone and the Droid. It can also hold the iPod Touch.

#1561

EDB: What accessory would you suggest for a person that needs the aid of a stylus?

V: We just released a brand new product, #9086 Adjustable Touch Screen Stylus. This device can be worn on any hand or arm. Not only is the length adjustable, but it can be used in many positions. One of my favorite features of this stylus is that the tips are replaceable (#9084). This product was just introduced a few weeks ago and we can hardly keep it on the shelf!

#9086

EDB: Not all individuals can use an iPad right away and some need a prerequisite to train them how to swipe and touch the screen. What would you recommend for them?

V: Definitely #716B iPad Trainer Button. One important skill that you need to use on an iPad is finger isolation, the ability to move and use one finger at a time. This switch is a great prerequisite to being able to point and touch icons on the iPad screen.

#716B

EDB: What switches for the iPad would you recommend?

V: We carry three great switch/interface options for the iPad. We have #1052 iPad Cordless Super Switch, which is a Bluetooth interface integrated with a Jumbo Switch. It also has inputs for up to two external switches. The user can use the built-in button or any other external switch. Most applications use single switch access, however there are some out there that require more.

Another interface we carry is #4101 iPad Cordless Switch Interface. The difference between #4101 and #1052 is that #1052 comes with a built-in switch and #4101 requires an external switch to be inputed. You can add up to two switches. This item would be good for someone who needs a specialized switch, such as; the Sip and Puff Switch, Eye Blink Switch, Ultimate Switch, etc. 

#1052

#4101

We also carry #1041 Switchamajig iPad Switch. This switch turns your iPad into a switch using a Wi-Fi network connection. It can configure the touch pad to act as one to six switches. It also comes with a free app to work the iPad.

#1041

EDB: Are there any other accessories you would like to mention?

V: There is one more product I would quickly like to discuss, #5930 30 Pin Extension Cable. This cable is a great tool, it allows you to connect your iPad into one of our switch adapted iHomes. 

#598

#597

I have had many customers who are teachers ask me how to connect their iPad to the iHome that's in their classroom. This is an inexpensive easy solution! Another great feature of this cable is that it gives you access to the headphone jack when your iPod is docked in the iHome. (This allows for private listening without disturbing others in a classroom or noisy environment.) The headphone jack is located at the bottom of the device and it is covered when it's plugged into the iHome station. This cable permits access to the jacks while connecting the device to the docking station.

#5930

Thank you Vinny for your time today! If anyone has any further questions for our Tech Expert Vinny please feel free to email us at customer_support@enablingdevices.com or call us at 1-800-832-8697.

"All of our dreams can come true - if we have the courage to pursue them." - Walt Disney

www.enablingdevices.com

Doctor Mad Science

Social media and a passion for science changed the life of 10 year old Jordan. Jordan was diagnosed as severely Autistic at 18 months old and started to speak using one or two words at the age of 5. Jordan's mother worried "...I wondered if he would ever be able to have a conversation, go to school or make a friend. As a mom, these are the kinds of thoughts that keep you at night..."

Everything changed about a year ago when Jordan's love for science EXPLODED (literally!!!) and he started posting household experiments on YouTube. Jordan's speech improved and his confidence soared. With that came a great following of people who wanted to be involved and more importantly become Jordan's friend.

Jordan became an inspiration and role model to many people. Their encouraging comments kept him going and he continues to post his experiments, "...I want to be a scientist when I grow up and do more crazy things like with bunson burners and stuff..."

What more will we see from Doctor Mad Science?!?!

For more information on Doctor Mad Science please go to his website and check out his YouTube channel!

Have an idea for a blog post?? Email us at enablingdevices@gmail.com.

"Believe that you can and you're halfway there." - Theodore Roosevelt

EnablingDevices.com

Enjoy the Visual Experience!

Therapeutic devices do so much for people with special needs. They help individuals develop independent play, stimulate their senses, and motivate them to reach out. The products below are some of our best selling items that give individuals an entertaining and encouraging visual experience. Each product increases the users visual attention and promotes visual tracking. They are also great for people with visual impairments.

#1672 Magical Light Show

#149 Clip Fan

#319 Fiber Flash Lamp w/Music

#1421 Robotic Laser Ball

We want to hear from you! Which visual products are your favorite? How do you use these?

"Nobody will believe in you unless you believe in yourself." - Liberna

Have an idea for a blog post? Email us at enablingdevices@gmail.com.

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Cutting Edge Technology, Google's New Tablet!


The "Technology World" changes by the minute and by the time a product is released to the public, it is old news. Despite that factor, we strive to give our customers the latest products and accessories. Google is releasing their new Nexus Tablet.

Our new Tablet Holder with a mount holds this device. The universal mount easily attaches to a wheelchair, tabletop, bedrail or tray. The mounting arm can be adjusted for anyone who needs special placement. Not only can this tablet hold the Nexus, but is also compatible with the Kindle, Kindle Fire, Nook, Motorola Xoom, Samsung Galaxy, Asus Transformer and other similar tablets.

#1568 Tablet Holder with a Mount

The Nexus is available for pre-order now.

If you have any questions regarding this product please feel free to contact us at customer_support@enablingdevices.com or call us at 1-800-832-8697.

Have an idea for a blog post? Email us at enablingdevices@gmail.com.

"I can, therefore I am."- Simone Weil

Summertime Fun!

School is out and the sun is shinning! Summer is the perfect opportunity to spend quality time with your family and have some good ole fashion FUN! Quite often summer activities can be a hassle because you have to pack up the family and leave the comfort/convenience of your own home. Here are some easy ideas of activities/therapeutic toys for the whole family to enjoy and can be brought to your door!

Bubbles- Great for visual tracking and practicing hand-eye coordination. They're are loads of fun!

#2286 Bubble Mania

#4535 Dora Bubble Blower

#4539 Sponge Bob Bubble Blower

Water - Water is a great therapy tool, it provides great sensation and wonderful sounds. It is also a perfect way to cool down on a hot day!

#9000 Water Toy

#9013 Under the Sea

Games- Games are a great way to teach friendly competition, teamwork and sharing. Also a good way to incorporate the whole family!

#6789 Wireless Pitching Machine

#91 Yahtzee with High Roller

#4532 Switch Spinner

#4051 Bingo

Several of the products above are on sale for a limited time only! So make sure you go to www.EnablingDevices.com to get the special offer!

"Act as if what you do makes a difference. It does." - Williams James

Sensory Space- Customized for You!

Since January 2012, Enabling Devices launched a new line of products for Sensory Spaces. Sensory Spaces are used all over the world for many therapeutic purposes. The main idea behind these products is to help people relax and self-regulate through sensory integration, self organization and stress management. Many spaces are designed to stimulate the senses using lighting effects, colors, vibration, music and much more. Sensory Spaces come in many sizes and shapes. Some are an entire room, where as others are corners or certain designated areas. They are used for people of all ages from children to seniors. Many are found in schools, hospitals, therapy offices and even in homes. When a person enters the room or area, they know they are in a safe, quiet environment. The effects make them feel good and focus on self-soothing.

Here are a few things to keep in mind when you are designing your space:

Location- Is your room for a home setting or facility? Make sure your space is in an area that can be secluded or have barriers. You want people to feel safe in an enclosed space. Do you want window in your space? If the only area you have has windows and you want to block out the light, you can always cover them with black construction paper, or black-out curtains.

Design- Make a plan!  First decide who will be using the space and what kind of access will be needed. Will wheelchair access be necessary? Do you plan on having multiple people in the room? Will supervision be needed? Determine what the primary use of the room will be.

Budget- Is there a budget? Who will fund the area or space? Will funds need to be raised?

Here are a few great products for your space:

#2291 Interactive Musical Bubble Tube

#3951 Gel Pad Activity Center

#1421 Robotic Laser Ball

#3119 Touch Light Panels

We carry a wide variety of products for your space, whether it be big or small. We strive to offer you with many options that can suite your needs. If you need help designing your space or choosing which products are right for you, please ask our team, we are here for help!

“When one door of happiness closes, another opens, but often we look so long at the closed door that we do not see the one that has been opened for us.” - Helen Keller


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Tech Tips with Vinny our Tech Expert- Computer Ready Switches

Today, to help teach us about computer switches, I would like to introduce Vinny, Tech Expert! Vinny has worked for Enabling Devices in the Tech Department for almost 11 years. He is our product specialist and plays a major role on the Product Development team. Vinny is very recognizable because he is the star in our Tech Videos!

Enabling Devices Blogger: What is a computer ready switch?

Vinny: Computer ready switches are for someone who is physically challenged. The individual no longer has to rely on another person to control the “clicks” of a mouse. We offer a wide variety of switches that meet the needs of many users.

EDB: Why would someone use one of these switches?

V: They would be used by someone who cannot operate a standard mouse or keyboard.

EDB: How do I connect a switch to the computer?

V: First you begin with a switch interface (the hardware) that connects to the computer. We offer wired and wireless interfaces. Deciding which switch and interface to use totally depends on the individual. I always ask customers; what is your goal? What are you trying to do with the computer? I need to know who the end user is and how they plan on using the computer and what kind of application/software, such as single switch access software. One thing to keep in mind is that 95% of switch interfaces only operate a mouse click or key stroke. They do not move the cursor around the desktop. With that being said, most interfaces are used in conjunction with single access software, which doesn’t rely on curser movement; it requires a keystroke or mouse click.

Below is an instructional video staring Vinny!

EDB: What is the difference between a computer ready switch and interactive mouse/wireless single mouse?

#4044

#7758

                                            

V: The computer ready switches only work the left click (double click) of a mouse, you cannot move the curser. The Wireless Single Mouse can also be set for other mouse functions such as the right click, drag and scroll. The Interactive Mouse can only operate the left click; however the mouse functions are still available for both interfaces. Another person such as a therapist can control the mouse curser movement, and the individual can activate the switch to make a selection. This is a great tool to use for participation and non-switch friendly applications.

EDB: Which one would you recommend?

V: Every individual is unquie; it depends on the end user. The computer ready switches we carry are connected to an Ultimate, Sip and Puff, Pancake or Gumball switch. We also carry an adapter which you can plug your own switch into. I have seen that these are becoming more and more popular.

EDB: If a customer wants to be able to operate a mouse solely themselves, without the help of another person moving the direction of the mouse curser, what would your recommend?

                                                                

                                                                                                                                                                 

V: We have three great options that I would recommend depending on the individual’s abilities. The SAM-Joystick, and SAM-Trackball, are reliable products if the person is able to operate the joystick or trackball.

#4007

#4006

In my opinion, the best option we carry is the Hands Free Mouse. Your head movement moves the curser. It also has a feature called Dwell Clicking where the user holds the curser over an icon for a certain amount of time which is adjustable, and it will replicate the double click function. An additional switch is not necessary. However it does have support for up to 2 switches if you would like that option, such as having the head movement control the curser and sip and puff switch work the mouse click. You can basically run almost any computer program with this product; it is one of my favorites. It gives you full access to the computer.

#4003

If you have any further questions please feel free to contact our Tech Expert! Vinny can be reach at customer_support@enablingdevices.com or call us at 1-800-832-8697.

"The reasonable man adapts himself to the world; the unreasonable one persists in trying to adapt the world to himself. Therefore, all progress depends on the unreasonable man" - George B Shaw.

EnablingDevices.com

Welcome To Our Blog!

Welcome! Thank you for joining our community! We have created this blog for you! We’ve devoted this space for expanding conversation and hearing from you about how Assistive Technology impacts your life and the lives of your loved ones.

We would love for this to become a place where you can share stories, seek advice and most importantly learn from others. On this blog you will also find our latest news including new products and ideas. Please feel free to share with us any ideas you may have!

Thank you again for joining and Happy Blogging!

"The only disability in life is a bad attitude." -Scott Hamilton

Enabling Devices.com