GoBabyGo Wrap-Around Grab Bar for Steering Bar (Part 3)

For many children with limited reach or upper-body strength a standard steering wheel is a barrier, not a tool. This wrap-around bar modification brings the controls to the child. This design encourages bilateral hand use and varied grip patterns, helping the child build functional strength and dexterity while they navigate their environment. By extending the surface area of the trigger, we ensure that no matter where their hands land, they have the power to move, explore, and play independently.

It is assumed that you already have an AbleNet Big Red switch and instructions to install it. If not, please see GoBabyGo Steering Button Installation (Part 1) and Adding on a Steering Bar (Part 2).

Overview:

1. Part 1: Installing an AbleNet Big Red Switch & Emergency Stop
2. Part 2: Adding on a Steering Bar.
3. Part 3: Adding on a Grab Bar to the Steering Bar (this one).

For the wrap-around grab bar:

1. 1 - 12" length of 3/4" PVC pipe (steering bar)
2. 2 - 6" length of 3/4" PVC pipe (grab bars)
3. 2 - 2" length of 3/4" PVC pipe (side bars)
4. 4 - 3/4" PVC pipe caps
5. 4 - 3/4" 90-degree PVC elbows

For assembly:

1. Colorful duct tape or tennis racket wrap
2. Adhesive: hot glue for temporary hold or PVC glue for permanent hold (use in a ventilated area!)

This step assumes that you have completed the GoBabyGo Steering Bar (Part 1).

This will make two grab bar assemblies, one for either side of the steering bar.

Measure and Cut:

1. 2 - 6" long PVC pipes for the grab bars (measure where you want your grab bars to be placed and adjust the length so your child is comfortable when grabbing them).
2. 2 - 2" long PVC pipes for the side bars.

Gather:

1. 4 PVC elbows
2. 2 PVC End caps

Decorate:

1. If appropriate, wrap the grab bars in colorful duct tape to draw in the child's eyes so they know where to put their hands (see photo).
2. Or use tennis racket wrap to increase grip.

Grab Bar Assembly (x2):

1. Place two 90-degree elbows facing outward and then insert the 2" PVC pipe in between the elbows to create the side bars. Repeat for the other side.
2. Insert the 6" PVC pipe for the grab bar. Repeat for the other side.
3. Attach wrap-around grab bar assemblies onto the existing steering bar, one on each end, removing any steering bar end caps from Part 1.

Adhere:

1. After testing, consider using adhesive to attach the PVC.
2. Secure the pipes together using the adhesive of your choice.
3. Adhere small pieces of foam on the bolt tops to prevent accidental scrapes

Follow the steps from GoBabyGo Steering Bar (Part 1) to install the full wrap-around grab bar to the steering plate.