Children who are blind or visually impaired (and those who are fully sighted!) can get their hands on a variety of textures as they create this self-portrait collage; additionally, they can learn about body parts, facial expressions, and spatial concepts, too! So, here’s to making a little bit of a mess, a great bit of … Continued
You’ve Touched My Heart! Tactile Heart Valentine Card Tutorial We’re talking Valentine card preparations—but not adding signatures to your standard store-bought notes—accessible, tactile designing! While the finished product can still look creative and beautiful, our main aim is for them to be tactually interesting and enjoyable to create. Not too long ago my daughter came … Continued
Delicate petals. Fuzzy leaves. Sweet-smelling blossoms. Vivid color contrasts. Sturdy stems. Yes, we’re talking about beloved flowers—the wild ones found peppered across fields and those bound and arranged-just-so at the supermarket. While they are no doubt visually beautiful, flowers (nature’s treasures) can be enjoyed by all, irrespective of visual acuity, due to their lovely fragrance and texture. And you … Continued
It’s play time—colorful, sensory, tasty play time. And perhaps the best part, this activity is easy-peasy. So, gather your little leprechauns and taste the rainbow. Here’s what you need: One box of Fruit Loops Cereal Food processor, or ziplock bag and rolling pin A large bowl  Play things (I used measuring cups, measuring spoons, and a whisk)— consider color contrast and accessible measuring tools      A … Continued
It seems empathy, the ability to understand and share the feelings of others, is something we could all use a bit more of today. Wouldn’t it be a far healthier place if we could recognize, care about, and express concern over each other’s feelings and experiences, no matter our differences? All relationships (familial, neighborly, friendships, peer, coworker, … Continued
Editor’s note: This blog by Sara Edwards, TVI, DT/Vision Specialist, Evaluator – IL Early Intervention Program, is a preview for the upcoming Family Connect and Illinois School for the Visually Impaired webinar, Tips and Techniques to Develop Pre-braille Skills in Toddlers, on Monday November 16, 2:00-3:30pm Eastern – eligible for ACVREP credit. Register here. Find other … Continued