What is a BIGmack?

A BIGmack is a simple communication button that allows a child or young person to record and play back a single message by pressing a large coloured switch.

It can help children with speech, language, communication, sensory, or physical difficulties to take part in activities, make choices, and communicate with others.

Using a BIGmack can help children and young people to:

• Communicate their needs and preferences
• Participate in learning and social activities
• Develop independence
• Understand now and next
• Build confidence in communication
• Experience successful interactions with others

A BIGmack is often a useful first step in developing communication skills and introducing alternative and augmentative communication (AAC).

Useful videos

Watch our videos, using the links below, to help you use a BIGmack:

The first video demonstrates what a BIGmack communication device is and how it can be used to support expression, choice making and independence:

What is a BIGmack communication device and how do you use one?

The second demonstrates how you can use a BIGmack communication device to support greetings.

How to use a BIGMack to say ‘Hello’

Considerations for using a BIGmack

• Is the BIGmack positioned so the child or young person can easily reach and press it?
• Is the recorded message meaningful and motivating for the child or young person?
• Are adults responding consistently when the child or young person uses it?
• Is the volume suitable for the child or young person’s sensory needs?
• Are there regular opportunities for the child or young person to use it throughout the day?

Additional ideas for using a BIGmack:

In the classroom:

• “Good morning”
• “Yes” / “No”
• Answering the register
• Joining in with lessons and discussions

During story time:

• Repeating a key phrase from a story
• Joining in with songs and rhymes
• Taking part in sensory stories

Social interactions:

• “Hello”
• “Can I play?”
• “Please/Thank you”

Choice making

• Choosing an activity
• Requesting a favourite toy
• Asking for more
• Requesting help

Sensory and Physical development

• Encouraging reaching and exploration
• Supporting cause-and-effect learning
• Activating adapted toys or activities
• Developing participation and engagement

More information

For more information about using a BIGmack to support inclusion and learning, schools and settings can book an ICT consultation, using the following email address:

educate.specialeducationalneeds-mailbox@devon.gov.uk

The consultations normally take place monthly on a Tuesday and Thursday.

There is no cost to settings to book an ICT consultation.