I have updated my previous list of my favorite options for American Printing House for the Blind materials and teacher books for the academic level of Pre-K through second. Several products from my 2024 list have been discontinued, and some great new ones have been added. All products are available on quota funds, unless otherwise noted. Utilizing these materials can be especially helpful for getting classroom teachers materials they need and saving you planning time.
Suggested materials for braille learners Pre-K through second grade academic level
I want to mention a few newer additions that have caught my eye:
This device allows you to add electronic features, including audio feedback, to any Perkins brailler. It is a much less expensive option than the SMART brailler and is able to connect to Light Touch braillers, which take less force than the SMART brailler. A Perkins brailler with a Paige Connect may also be more durable than the SMART brailler. Time will tell for that one. Using an external device with it should enable sighted peers and teachers better access to the print output than the screen on the SMART brailler.
Building on Patterns Kindergarten
I am excited to get my hands on this curriculum. I love Building on Patterns Pre-K and am hopeful that some of the best aspects of that program will be included, at an age-appropriate level, in BOP kindergarten. The program was frankly way overdue for an update, and I’m glad that they took the tremendous amount of time and effort it must require to get us a new version.
This electronic math cube gives kids first grade and up a chance to have a fun way to engage with math facts. Because it is in print and braille, it can be a good partner activity with sighted partners. I am disappointed that number identification is not an option. It seems like a missed opportunity. Be aware that the braille numbers on the device are in UEB, not Nemeth.
I love the versatility of the APH books that include Velcro mats to go along with the story. You can do so much to build various concepts, as well as tactile graphic skills with them. This is a newer one that concentrates on counting, so it is probably most useful for a Pre-K academic level.
This kit offers a variety of pre-made grids that work with Velcro to give easy access to work with manipulatives. I like the versatility of it. I can see it as something I want on hand when I am adapting math activities for young braille users, among many other uses. I love to have things in the classroom that can be used for many different applications, and this looks like it meets that requirement.
