Introduction

On November 20, 2024, I had the privilege of presenting a webinar for CALL Scotland, focusing on the “7 Stages of Switch Development.” This talk was part of CALL Scotland’s ongoing efforts to support learners with additional support needs through assistive technology. In this blog post, I will share key insights from my presentation and discuss how switch access can be a transformative tool for children and their families (or you can watch the full talk above).

Understanding Switch Access

Switch access is a method that allows individuals with physical disabilities to interact with technology using switches. These switches can be activated by various movements, such as pressing a button, blinking, or even breathing. The goal is to provide an accessible way for children to engage with their environment, communicate, and learn.

The 7 Stages of Switch Development

During the webinar, I outlined the 7 stages of switch development, a framework designed to guide children through their switch journey. This framework was developed in collaboration with therapists, educators, and families to ensure a child-centered approach. You can learn more about the stages here:

Switch Heroes – Jiao

7SSD Information Sheets – Jiao (free downloadable info pack)

My account – Jiao (register for the free e-learning module)

Empowering Families and Educators

One of the key messages from my talk was the importance of involving families and educators in the switch development process. By working together, we can create a supportive environment that empowers children to reach their full potential. I shared several success stories from my experience, highlighting how switch access has positively impacted the lives of many children.

Conclusion

Switch access can be a powerful tool for children with physical disabilities, enabling them to interact with the world in meaningful ways. I am grateful to CALL Scotland for the opportunity to share my insights and to all the participants who joined the webinar. Together, we can continue to make a difference in the lives of children and their families through the use of Switch technology.