by Carrie Elliot, MA, CCC-SLP (Speech-Language Pathologist); NWACS Board Member
What is a keyguard?
A keyguard is an accessory that can be placed on a communication device to create a barrier between buttons to improve motor accuracy.
Two keyguards for tablets.
Why use a keyguard?
Keyguards can help individuals with motor difficulties. Keyguards can help users avoid mis-hits and help guide their touches.
An iPad in an Otter Box Case with a keyguard for the app Touch Chat by Saltillo.
Factors To Consider
When ordering a keyguard, there are actually a lot of factors to consider!
Material
Plastic
Wood
3-D Printed
Height From Screen
Too flush to the screen and doesn’t make much of a difference
Too thick and it may make activating a button more difficult
Shape of Button Holes
Rectangular
Circular
Size of Button Holes
Too large and the barrier between buttons can be broken more easily
Too small and it may cause more difficulty accessing a button
Attachment Method
Straps
Suction cup
Magnet
Snap In under the case
Velcro
An iPad with a clear keyguard for the app Proloquo2Go.
Before You Order
When ordering a keyguard you also need really specific information to make sure everything fits right! You need to know:
The Device: An iPad? A mini? A Kindle? What size?
The Case: What dimensions are the screen opening?
Orientation: Will the user have the device setting horizontally or vertically?
The App: What version exactly? Sometimes the version updates make just the slightest changes which can impact the fit of the keyguard.
The Vocabulary: Within the app Touch Chat for example, there are many different vocabulary files to choose from. Word Power 42 Basic or Word Power 60 Basic?
App Settings:
Once you decide on a keyguard there are a couple settings you can change in apps. This will be specific to whichever app you are using. Some examples include:
Margin between buttons
Background color
Keyguard inset
Where to Buy:
There are several keyguard manufacturers. (Do you know of other ones? Please share in the comments!)
Keyguard on a Gridpad by Smartbox
What are your favorite keyguard tricks? Have you ever tried one?
