Braille Instruction Tips

By: Carmen Willings
teachingvisuallyimpaired.com
​Updated January 12, 2025
​Teaching braille effectively requires careful consideration of various factors, including the student's age, intellectual capabilities, tactile and perceptual abilities, and additional disabilities. ​

1. Consideration of Student Factors

Tailor braille instruction based on the following:
  • Age and Literacy Options: Assess whether braille is the most appropriate literacy medium based on the results of the Functional Vision Learning Media Assessment (FVLMA)
  • Intellectual Capabilities: Determine if the student would benefit more from functional braille (focused on life skills, such as labeling items) or traditional braille (focused on reading and writing literacy).
  • Tactile and Perceptual Abilities: Evaluate the student's sensitivity to tactile input and their ability to discriminate between braille symbols. Provide pre-braille activities, such as tactile discrimination games or sensory exercises.
  • Additional Disabilities: Adapt instruction for students with additional disabilities by incorporating multisensory techniques, individualized pacing, and clear, concise instructions.

​2. Make Learning Fun

Engage students by creating a positive and enjoyable learning environment:
  • Braille Notes: Write short, encouraging braille notes for students and place them in unexpected places, such as inside books, lunchboxes, or desk drawers. Encourage students to write and exchange braille notes with family, friends, or classmates.
  • Mentorship: Pair more advanced braille readers with beginners to foster mentorship, build confidence, and celebrate braille literacy.
  • Motivational Games: Use games like braille bingo or tactile scavenger hunts to keep students excited about learning.

​3. Utilize Technology

Incorporate assistive technology to make braille instruction more accessible and engaging:
  • Smart Braillewriters: Introduce devices like the Perkins SMART Brailler, which provides audio and visual feedback for learning.
  • Braille Notetakers: Use refreshable braille devices to allow students to read and write braille electronically. Highlight features like voice output to support comprehension and motivation.

​4. Interactive Activities

Encourage active learning with activities that are both educational and fun:
  • Braille Treasure Hunts: Create treasure hunts where students follow directions written in braille to find hidden clues.
  • Themed Activities: Tailor activities to the student’s interests (e.g., braille a favorite song, story, or recipe). Use real-world applications, such as reading braille signs or labeling personal items, to reinforce learning.
  • Tactile Exploration: Incorporate tactile materials such as textured shapes, objects, or raised-line drawings to make lessons engaging.

​5. Material Positioning and Stabilizing Tips

Ensure materials are accessible and stable during instruction:
  • Non-Slip Surfaces: Use shelf liner, Dycem, or slip guards to prevent braille paper or books from sliding on the desk.
  • Ergonomic Positioning: Adjust the height of the table or chair to ensure the student’s comfort and promote proper finger placement for reading.

​Outcomes

​By incorporating these strategies, you can create a meaningful and enjoyable learning experience, enabling students to develop essential braille literacy skills while fostering confidence, independence, and a love for reading and writing in braille.
Material Positioning/ Stabilizing Tip: Keep braille paper from sliding on the table or desk by placing it on shelf liner, Dycem, or slip guard,

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