Overview
Can we help children creatively express their thoughts without struggling with the mechanics or tools? How can their written ideas be understood by others? Braille, print, pictures, gestures, object symbols, and many forms of assistive technology can all be avenues for conveying ideas. Learn how to evaluate and provide targeted instruction to give students options for self-expression.
Tactile learners need access to writing tools from a very early age, just like their sighted peers. Through practice and exploration, they develop fine motor skills and coordination, and become familiar with the mechanics of writing. Having fun using manipulatives, storyboards, braille writing tools, and raised dots and lines expands early literacy skills.
Anna Gayle from Louisiana School for the Blind shares a technique she uses with beginning braille students: From Table to Swing Cell to Braillewriter (FT2S2B). They begin by learning dot numbers and configurations, and then practice holding up certain fingers and placing others correctly. How can you support students to use correct finger placement on a braillewriter?
We often think of writing as being what a child produces in print or braille. Stories and books can also be created through the use of objects, tactile or picture symbols. They can be dictated or “co-created” with an adult or peer. Do you know how to use writing to support the development of language and communication?
Playing with Words is a fun, collaborative approach to play-based storytelling. It is designed for students who are visually impaired with additional disabilities, including those who have autism or are deafblind. Watch video examples and explore ideas to support writing.
