BIG Step-By-Step

Move into multi-message communication with the BIG Step-by-Step speech device. Activate the large colored top to play the first message. When done, activate the top again to play another message. New sequences of messages are easily and quickly recorded to the BIG Step-by-Step on the fly, or use the levels pre-record up to three sets of messages ahead of time.

Supplied with 4 colour twist tops.

The BIG Step-By-Step can be set up to accommodate a range of communication abilities and requirements.

101+ Ideas For Using the BIG Step-by-Step™

Download the ideas here (PDF Download)

Single message:

• record a message (total recording time of 4 minutes); the user activates the large round touch switch to "speak" the message.  The playback quality is loud and clear.  Single message devices can be used to introduce 'voice output'.  A child may participate in a game by giving a repeated instruction e.g. 'ready, steady, go!'  A student may have a task to perform where a repeated message is used e.g. "do you have any lunch orders today?"  A conversation starter may be useful to intiate a chat e.g. "what did you do last night?"
• the Step-by-Step has 3 levels so it would be possible to store 3 different messages and the assistant/support person can change the single message by changing the levels.  (a small sliding button on the side of the unit changes between levels 1, 2 and 3).

Step-by-Step:

• the multiple messages available provide more communication opportunities for the user.  To use the multiple messages the user would press the button once for message 1, then again for message 2, press again for message 3 and so on.  There is no limit to the number of messages stored in this way, however the total recording time is 4 minutes.
• each of the three levels can have multiple messages stored in this way
• these could be used in a variety of ways. A useful 'errorless' communication set-up may require recording a series of messages which are parts of a conversation, for example various types of greeting: e.g. first press = "hi, how are you?",  second press =  "I'm great today thanks!", third press = "I'm off to class now, see you later".  The series of messages could be used to provide instructions in a game e.g. first press = "simon says clap your hands", second press = "simon says jump up and down", third press = 'growl like a lion."

Other functions:

• The Step-By-Step also has a toy/applicance jack with cable.  The device can be used as a switch to operate a toy or appliance such as a battery-powered fan or radio.
  This is how this function works:  To set-up: While recording a message, press the Record Button one time (1x) to assign a Toy/Appliance to that message. When that message is played, an attached toy or appliance will activate for the length of the recorded message.

Accessing:

• The large button (63.5mm diameter / 2.5 inches) can be activated with a fist, hand or other body part. 
• A remote single switch can also be connected to the Step-By-Step if the user prefers a different way to operate the device.  Almost any switch can be connected.

Availability:

LITTLE Step-by-Step is usually in stock.

BIG Step-by-Step is usually in stock.

Step-by-Step CHOICE - avaiable within 2 to 3 weeks.

This Step-By-Step is the original version, which "steps" through single stored messages each time the button is activated.  So record any series of messages directly into the Step-By-Step Communicator and press the button to speak the first message; press it again for the second message, press it again and it steps to the next message and eventually it loops back to message one.  [This differs from the Step-By-Step CHOICE with Levels, which uses multiple presses to retrieve the messages.  So 3 hits speaks message 3; 5 hits speaks message 5 and so on. For detail on the Step-By-Step CHOICE please click on this link.]

Trial:

One of the step-by-step series may be available in our Single Message Assessment kit available to therapists for evaluation.

As this is a low cost device it is not available for short-term trial through our usual 'Guided Evaluation Program'.  Instead we offer the Step-By-Steps on a 'sale or return' basis.  This means it can be purchased and a new complete device is supplied, and if it is unsuitable it can be returned within 14 days.  A refund will be provided less the original freight cost and less any 're-stocking fee' applicable. A re-stocking fee applies if packaging or components require replacing.  If the device and accessories are returned in resaleable condition, a refund will be provided less the original freight charge.See "Purchase or Return" for terms. 

• recording time | 4 minutes in total
• connections | switch jack, toy/appliance jack
• dimensions | activation button = 127 mm (5 inch) diameter
• activation force |  57 to 85 gms (2 - 3 oz)
• weight with battery | 241 gms (8.5 oz)
• power | 9 volt battery

Step-By-Step User Guide (PDF download)

101+ Ideas For Using the BIG Step-by-Step™ and Other Single Message Communication Devices or Other Sequential Message Device to Access Curriculum (PDF Download)