Resource

Page Fluffers

Page fluffers are a way to adapt books for children with motor challenges by making it easier to turn the pages

Many children with motor challenges have difficulty turning pages.  “Page Fluffers” give added depth and weight, which makes it easier to grasp and turn the page, thereby allowing students to be more independent in reading and literacy activities. 

What is a page fluffer?

Page fluffers are attached to the page, using glue, tape, adhesive-backed materials, clips, or anything that will hold the spacer in place. 

How can I make a page fluffer?

Page fluffers can be permanent or removable.  Individual needs should be considered in deciding what type of fluffer to make.  For example paper clips have the advantage that they can be removed from the book, if it’s from a library or to be used by others, but they can also be a hazard for people who put things in their mouth. 

Page fluffers using Velcro dots or buttons
Page fluffers using Velcro dots or buttons

Individuals with more significant physical impairment will usually need bigger or thicker page fluffers. 

Does it matter what kind of book it is?

The book itself must also be considered.  For example page fluffers on a board book may be different from those on a book with thin pages or laminated pages.

There is no single way to make page fluffers, but here are some ideas:

  1. Use the soft side of velcro squares or other adhesive-backed materials.
  2. Attach tongue depressors.
  3. Use foam core.
  4. Use paper clips, binder clips or any clip that is appropriate to the book and individual child.
Using numbered tongue depressors as page fluffers on a board book.
Using numbered tongue depressors as page fluffers on a board book

More Ideas

Drawing of paper clips as page fluffers
Drawing of paper clips as page fluffers
page fluffers to adapt books for children with special needs