We have been asked numerous times by parents, family members and educators, what is out there and where to find, assistive technology for children/students who are visually impaired. It may be something as simple as a preschooler's toy or as advanced as computer technology. At Blind Childrens Learning Center, we begin to use assistive technology in our infant classroom, using switches and cause and effect computer software and pointing devices, as well as print/Braille books. In the public school setting, it is our goal to get school age kids the technology they need to succeed in the classroom alongside their sighted peers. This is done through grants and donations, and collaboration between the school districts and the Braille Institute. Furthermore, these skills will carry over into the work force, which is a necessity for a blind individual to be competitive in the job market and maintain their independence.
Below are some links to different providers that have either been recommended to me or that I have personally used. As you explore these links, keep in mind that not all devices work for all individuals. An assistive technology assessment should be utilized.
Books
braille
large print
textbooks
transcribing
books on tape
Braille Institute
Clearinghouse for Specialized Media and Technology
LRS
National Braille Press
National Library Services for the Blind and Physically Handicapped.
Recordings for the Blind and Dyslexic
Seedlings Braille Books for Children
Products
braille and low vision adapted devices
Abledata
Ann Morris Enterprises
American Printing House for the Blind
California Canes
Descriptive Video Services
Enabling Devices
Eschenbach
Exceptional Teaching Aids
Independent Living Aids
LS & S Group
Maxi-Aids
Tack-Tiles
Vendors
computer hardware
software
cctv's
braillers
braille aids
AccessAbility
AI Squared
Assistive Technology Exchange Center
Beyond Sight
Duxbury
Freedom Scientific
Arkenstone
Blazie
Henter-Joyce
Howe Press
HumanWare
Intellitools
Judy Lynn
Repro-Tronics
R J Cooper and Associates
Screen Magnifiers
Telesensory
Toys
American Foundation for the Blind
Toys 'R' Us Toy Guide for Differently Abled Kids