Advertise on podcast: At Your Fingertips - Braille Then and Now

iscover creative and inclusive ways to enjoy Braille in everyday life, from tactile art and colouring to innovative Braille products, resources, and accessible games for learners of all ages. In this episode of At Your Fingertips: Braille Then and Now, host Chris Cooke shares a vibrant journey through the world of Braille and tactile creativity. From attending the MacStock 10 conference and presenting “Inspired to Read” to exploring accessible art projects, Chris demonstrates how blind and visually impaired individuals can fully participate in activities like drawing and colouring.   Listeners will hear about tools like the Sensational Blackboard, tactile colouring books from ViewPlus, labelled crayons for creative projects, and tips for expanding access to art. Chris also dives into Braille learning resources, including beginner flashcards, UEB guides, games with accessibility kits, and unique educational products from National Braille Press and Braille Superstore.   This episode is both inspiring and practical, highlighting how Braille can enhance learning, leisure, and community engagement—whether it’s enjoying tactile puzzles, sharing accessible art with others, or discovering fun ways to teach Braille to kids and families. Relevant Links   Sensational Blackboard: https://www.sensationalbooks.com ViewPlus Tactile Colouring Books: https://www.viewplus.com National Braille Press: https://www.nbp.org Braille Superstore / Future Aids: https://www.braillebookstore.com 64 Ounce Games Accessibility Kits: https://www.64ouncegames.com Keyword List   Braille resources, tactile art projects, accessible colouring books, Sensational Blackboard, ViewPlus colouring, National Braille Press guides, Braille Superstore flashcards, UEB learning tools, accessible games for blind, tactile creativity, inclusive Braille activities, blind art projects

Explore the latest in portable Braille displays, updates in TalkBack 17, and a brilliant low-tech solution for creating tactile graphics at home. Learn how to choose the right device and enhance accessible reading and writing in 2026.   This episode dives into the evolving world of Braille technology, starting with TalkBack 17 and its upcoming integration with Samsung devices, including enhanced support for USB and HID Braille displays. We then explore a range of portable Braille displays under 20 cells, comparing features like storage, connectivity, battery life, and usability.   Highlights include an in-depth look at the Humanware Brailliant BI 20X, APH Chameleon, Focus 14 Blue, Orbit Reader 20 Plus, and Help Tech Actolino, with insights from Scott Davert’s “Keeping It Portable in 2026” series. Each device’s strengths, quirks, and compatibility tips are shared to help you make an informed choice.   To close, we spotlight the Sensational Blackboard, a low-tech, highly creative tool that allows anyone to create tactile line drawings with a simple ballpoint pen—bringing art, maps, and signatures to life for blind and visually impaired users.   Relevant Links   Keeping it Portable in 2026 article 1 by Scott Davert : https://www.helenkeller.org/keeping-it-portable-in-2026/ Keeping it Portable in 2026 Part 2 by Scott Davert : https://www.helenkeller.org/keeping-it-portable-in-2026-part-2/  Sensational Blackboard: https://sensationalbooks.com/products.html Keyword List   TalkBack 17 Braille, portable Braille displays 2026, Humanware Brailliant BI 20X, APH Chameleon 20, Focus 14 Blue review, Orbit Reader 20 Plus, Help Tech Actolino, tactile graphics tools, Sensational Blackboard, Braille HID support, accessible drawing tools Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Explore the latest Braille technology, accessible crafting resources, and the PAIGE Braille learning app in this in-depth episode. From new Braille displays to tools for learners and creative crafters, here’s what you need to know.   Chris Cooke takes a deep dive into the evolving world of Braille in 2026, highlighting new devices announced at the CSUN Assistive Technology Conference. Discover the HumanWare Braille Note Evolve, Orbit Research’s Strata and Flow displays, Selvis BrailleSense 7, and the innovative Mnemonic Braille Labeller.   For creative listeners, Chris shares where to find accessible knitting and crochet patterns, including resources like Blind Mice Mega Mall, Accessible Patterns Index, and the Braille Authority of North America’s hobby guidelines.   The episode also includes a hands-on walkthrough of the PAIGE Braille learning app, exploring its strengths, quirks, and how it can support both beginners and advanced learners with or without a Braille display.   Relevant Links   Blind Mice Mega Mall: https://www.blindmicemegamall.com Accessible Patterns Index: https://accessiblepatternsindex.com/category/using-the-index Braille Authority of North America – Crafts & Hobbies: https://brailleauthority.org/crafts-and-hobbies PAIGE Braille App: https://paigebraille.com Keyword List   Braille learning app, PAIGE Braille, Braille displays 2026, HumanWare Braille Note Evolve, Orbit Research Strata, Selvis BrailleSense 7, Mnemonic Braille Labeller, accessible knitting patterns, crochet Braille patterns, Blind Mice Mega Mall, Accessible Patterns Index, Braille teaching tools, assistive technology podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover Braille Bridge, a new APH resource designed for adult learners and transition-aged readers who want to build practical Braille fluency. Learn how to integrate Braille into daily life through engaging exercises, tactile graphics, and fun activities.   In this episode of At Your Fingertips: Braille, Then and Now, Chris introduces Braille Bridge, a resource from the American Printing House for the Blind (APH) created for adults and young people seeking to refresh or improve their Braille skills. Unlike children’s books or overly simplistic texts, Braille Bridge offers short, relevant, and practical reading materials—covering household labels, recipes, jokes, riddles, and even short letters like one from Helen Keller.   Chris also shares a step-by-step guide for creating a tactile Braille heart design using a Perkins Brailler or slate and stylus. The episode highlights ways to integrate Braille into everyday activities, from labelling household items to enjoying games like Scrabble, Uno, or Monopoly. Discover how consistent, practical Braille use can help learners gain confidence, independence, and joy in reading.   Relevant Links   APH Braille Bridge: https://www.aph.org Paths to Literacy Braille Designs: https://www.pathstoliteracy.org/braille-designs-valentines-day/ Keyword List   Braille Bridge, APH Braille resources, adult Braille learners, tactile graphics, Perkins Brailler activities, Braille fluency practice, accessible learning tools, BRF files, Paths to Literacy, Braille heart design   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Celebrate the legacy of Louis Braille and explore the past, present, and future of Braille with Jonathan Mosen, Executive Director for Accessibility Excellence at the National Federation of the Blind. Learn how Braille technology evolved from the VersaBraille to multi-line displays like the Monarch, and why literacy through Braille is still life-changing today.   In this engaging conversation, Chris welcomes Braille advocate and technology leader Jonathan Mosen to reflect on the impact of Louis Braille’s invention and the ongoing journey of Braille literacy. Jonathan shares stories from his lifelong relationship with Braille, from reading under the covers as a child to using early devices like the VersaBraille in the 1980s.   Listeners will hear about the challenges and breakthroughs in Braille technology, including the rise of refreshable Braille, the promise of multi-line displays, and the transformative potential of tactile graphics for education and STEM learning. Jonathan also recounts his emotional visit to Louis Braille’s birthplace, reflecting on the profound legacy of a system that continues to empower blind people around the globe.   Together, Chris and Jonathan discuss practical ways to encourage more people to learn Braille, the myths surrounding technology replacing literacy, and the exciting future of devices like the Dot Pad and Monarch.   [Relevant Links]   National Federation of the Blind: https://www.nfb.org   NFB Centre of Excellence in Non-visual Accessibility (CENA): https://nfb.org/cena   Access On Podcast: https://www.nfb.org/programs-services/technology/access-on   [Keyword List]   Louis Braille legacy, Braille technology, Jonathan Mosen interview, refreshable Braille displays, Monarch Braille display, Dot Pad tactile graphics, VersaBraille history, Braille literacy advocacy, National Federation of the Blind, accessible technology podcast   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover how multi-line Braille displays like Dot Pad X and Monarch are transforming accessibility, education, and tactile literacy. Jackie Brown shares her lifelong Braille journey, from Perkins Braillers to cutting-edge digital Braille technology.   In this engaging conversation, Chris speaks with Jackie Brown, a digital skills officer at RNIB and founder of Strive Ability, about the evolution of Braille and its exciting future. Jackie shares her experience supporting tactile learners, her passion for Braille technology, and how multi-line displays are changing the way blind users access diagrams, graphics, and digital books.   From early Braille learning at age four to embracing electronic Braille in 2000, Jackie details her journey into using devices like the Dot Pad X and Monarch for reading Kindle books, exploring tactile diagrams, and supporting students in mainstream education. She highlights the power of tactile graphics, the importance of multi-line Braille in STEM learning, and the impact of showcasing these devices to educators and schools.   Relevant Links   Strive Ability: https://www.striveability.uk Braillists – Braille on Display: https://www.braillists.org/braille-on-display Keyword List   multi-line Braille display, Dot Pad X, Monarch Braille display, tactile diagrams, electronic Braille, RNIB accessibility, Kindle Braille reading, Strive Ability UK, Braille in education, assistive technology 2025 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover what’s new in Braille accessibility with Apple’s latest updates. From iOS 26’s “Braille Access” mode to creative uses of BRF files and multi-line displays like the Monarch, this episode of At Your Fingertips explores how technology continues to shape modern Braille literacy and why it still matters in 2025. This episode dives deep into Apple’s new Braille Access feature in iOS 26 and macOS Tahoe, revealing how it allows users to create BRF (Braille Ready Format) files, take notes, perform calculations, and seamlessly switch between apps using a Braille display. Host Chris Cooke explains practical use cases—from writing Braille music to sharing specialized code—and highlights how iCloud storage makes Braille more portable than ever. Listeners are also introduced to Seeing Hands (seeinghands.org), a nonprofit distributing Braille books and dictionaries for young readers and developing Sudoku puzzles for multi-line Braille displays like the Monarch. The show closes with reflections on the ongoing “Braille debate” discussed recently on Double Tap: whether Braille remains essential in a world of screen readers and AI. Chris Cooke offers a compassionate perspective, acknowledging both lifelong Braille users and those who struggle with tactile reading, while celebrating literacy, technology, and inclusion. Relevant Links Article from APH on Braille's relevance in the 21st century workplace https://aphconnectcenter.org/careerconnect/professionals-with-vision-or-career-changes/employment-skills/is-braille-relevant-in-the-21st-century-workplace/ David Woodbridge's Demo of Braille Access on iOS 26 https://davidwoodbr.podbean.com/e/the-incredible-braille-access-function-in-ios-and-mac-26-that-turns-your-braille-display-with-a-keyboard-in-to-a-braille-note-taker/ David Woodbridge's Demo of using Braille Access on Mac OS 26 https://davidwoodbr.podbean.com/e/using-braille-access-via-voiceover-on-the-mac-continuation-of-last-podcast-re-braille-access-on-ios-with-voiceover/ Keyword List Braille Access iOS 26, macOS Tahoe, Apple Braille features, BRF files, Braille music, Monarch Braille display, Seeing Hands organization, Braille books for children, multi-line Braille display, Braille literacy, assistive technology for blind users, Double Tap Braille debate, Apple accessibility, Braille education tools, iCloud Braille notes, Braille dictionary, Braille Sudoku, Braille then and now Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of At Your Fingertips: Braille Then and Now, Chris dives into the world of tactile literacy with highlights from the Braille 200 Project at livingbraille.eu, sharing fascinating finds like Braille art, adapted games, accessible kitchen tools, and thoughtful articles on Braille display selection. You’ll also hear about: A hands-on filming experience with The Blind Kitchen, where every product label includes Braille. Exploring tactile graphics using the APH Monarch, from icons on an iPhone home screen to flags, maps, and even Star Wars characters. Tips for creating accessible graphics, understanding visual perspectives as a blind person, and labeling your own tactile creations. Reflections on how Braille enhances daily independence—whether labeling kitchen tools or learning state shapes. To explore the Braille 200 project mentioned in this episode, visit: livingbraille.eu/author/braille-200 Have feedback or want to share your Braille story? Email [email protected] — we’d love to hear from you! The Blind Kitchen Braille 200 Send us your feedback online: https://pinecast.com/feedback/unmute-presents-on-acb-communi/470493dd-c663-4e30-ae8f-82b856de0d88 This podcast is powered by Pinecast. Try Pinecast for free, forever, no credit card required. If you decide to upgrade, use coupon code r-431b7d for 40% off for 4 months, and support Unmute Podcast Network. Read transcript Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of At Your Fingertips, we take a moment to celebrate Helen Keller's legacy, just in time for her June 27th birthday. We reflect on her impact, not just as a trailblazer for deafblind individuals, but also as a fierce advocate for Braille as a standard reading code. Next, we shift gears to explore Jumbo Braille. Yes, it's a real thing. Learn when it’s useful, how it’s different, and why it might be a good fit for those with tactile sensitivity challenges. And finally, butterflies and Braille come together as we chat about the Monarch, a powerful new multiline tactile graphics and Braille display from APH. It’s almost here, and you’ll hear what we’re hoping to do with it, from maps to music and even spreadsheets. Resources mentioned: Helen Keller National Center: https://helenkeller.org/hknc Feedback? We'd love to hear from you: [email protected] Thanks for joining us! Send us your feedback online: https://pinecast.com/feedback/unmute-presents-on-acb-communi/9e8cfcaa-31e2-4f73-a563-963d394b8e49 This podcast is powered by Pinecast. Try Pinecast for free, forever, no credit card required. If you decide to upgrade, use coupon code r-431b7d for 40% off for 4 months, and support Unmute Podcast Network. Read transcript Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this relaxed May edition of At Your Fingertips: Braille Then and Now, we explore fun, low- to mid-tech tools that bring joy and progress to Braille learners. From Braille keychains and swing cells to the increasingly popular Braille Doodle and LEGO Braille sets, discover how fidget-friendly tools can reinforce literacy in a hands-on way. We also take a deeper look at input devices like the NLS eReader, Orbit Writer, and Hable One—comparing how each supports learning and navigation across iOS and Android. Plus, hear creative strategies for teaching the Perkins Brailler remotely and why using more than just your index fingers might improve your tactile reading. Got thoughts or questions? Send them to [email protected] and let’s keep the Braille conversation going! Send us your feedback online: https://pinecast.com/feedback/unmute-presents-on-acb-communi/be72e9e6-bcc6-4098-afcf-c3a50085cdbc This podcast is powered by Pinecast. Try Pinecast for free, forever, no credit card required. If you decide to upgrade, use coupon code r-431b7d for 40% off for 4 months, and support Unmute Podcast Network. Read transcript Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of At Your Fingertips: Braille Then and Now, Chris shares practical strategies for increasing your Braille reading speed. Drawing from research by the American Foundation for the Blind and insights from Judy Dixon, the discussion covers why finger positioning matters, how a light touch can improve accuracy, and how bottom-dot recognition may slow some readers down. Chris explains the “scissors technique” for two-handed reading and encourages fun, low-pressure practice using tools like the Perkins Brailler or a Braille display. You'll also hear tips for daily Braille habits, group reading, and how to make the process enjoyable—whether you're just starting out or brushing up your skills.Read transcript Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

At Your Fingertips: Creative Braille, Birthday Surprises, and the VersaSlate In this episode, we explore creative ways to make Braille, from edible treats like M&Ms and marshmallows to unique methods like puff paint. Hear about a heartfelt birthday surprise, where a friend crafted a Braille birthday card, and a humorous college memory involving a cake with backwards Braille. We also dive into the versatility of slates and styluses—both classic and modern—discussing their continued importance for Braille learners and seasoned users alike. Plus, learn about the VersaSlate, a paperless, reusable Braille writing tool that’s portable, erasable, and perfect for jotting down notes on the go. 🔹 Creative Braille Methods – Puff paint, edible Braille, and unconventional tools 🔹 Slate & Stylus Throwback – A look at classic and modern uses 🔹 The VersaSlate – A reusable, erasable Braille tool for quick notes Have a unique way you use a slate and stylus? Share your thoughts at [email protected]! Send us your feedback online: https://pinecast.com/feedback/unmute-presents-on-acb-communi/3d4578e6-7baa-43f2-b7cc-f9ec0e08e0e6 This podcast is powered by Pinecast. Try Pinecast for free, forever, no credit card required. If you decide to upgrade, use coupon code r-431b7d for 40% off for 4 months, and support Unmute Podcast Network. Read transcript Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

At Your Fingertips: Braille Then and Now – The Braille Doodle In this episode, Chris takes a look at the Braille Doodle, a tool designed for both Braille learning and tactile drawing. This device has been a valuable addition to teaching and makes it easier to practice Braille while also exploring visual concepts. What is the Braille Doodle? The Braille Doodle is a tablet-sized device with two surfaces: Braille Practice Side – Designed for practicing the Braille alphabet, words, and sentences. Drawing Side – Works with a stylus to raise tiny magnetic ball bearings, allowing for freehand drawing or stencil-based illustrations. The Inspiration Behind It The Braille Doodle was created by Daniel Lubiner, a special education and art teacher for blind and visually impaired students. During the pandemic, Daniel was looking for better ways to teach remotely. The idea started with a simple toy and evolved into a tool that allows for tactile learning without erasing progress. Features and How It Is Used The Braille side has guided practice cells for learning letters step by step. The drawing side supports freeform sketching and graphing concepts for STEM learning. Includes stencils for creating structured designs and visual representations. Can be used to demonstrate spatial layouts, such as maps, grids, and even app screen layouts. Who Can Benefit? Braille learners working on letter recognition and formation. O&M instructors who want to illustrate routes or floor plans. Kinesthetic learners who need hands-on practice to reinforce dot positions. Anyone who enjoys tactile drawing—even as a fun fidget tool. Where to Get It The Braille Doodle is available in the U.S. at ATGuys.com. More details and resources, including videos and guides, can be found at TouchPadProFoundation.org. Final Thoughts This has been a great addition to teaching, and many are finding creative ways to use it. Questions or feedback can be sent to [email protected]. Send us your feedback online: https://pinecast.com/feedback/unmute-presents-on-acb-communi/38a960ca-7efa-469c-b569-58bc5be71e66 This podcast is powered by Pinecast. Try Pinecast for free, forever, no credit card required. If you decide to upgrade, use coupon code r-431b7d for 40% off for 4 months, and support Unmute Podcast Network. Read transcript Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Show Notes for "At Your Fingertips: Braille Buffet November 2024" In this episode, we dive into a mix of Braille tech tips, childhood reading memories, and holiday gift ideas for Braille enthusiasts. Explore tips for Braille display troubleshooting, nostalgic resources, global Braille charities, and unique gift suggestions for the giving season. Highlights Braille Tech Tips - Topic: Troubleshooting Brailliant BI 40X/20X connectivity with iPhone. - Solution: Disable "Perkins in Terminal" setting to regain command functionality. - Takeaway: Helpful tips for those using Braille displays with iPhones. Childhood Reading Memories - Topic: Vintage Braille books from the Braille Institute of America. - Details: Recollections of scratch-and-sniff pages and other unique tactile features. - Resource: Vintage Braille books can still be found on eBay. Charities for the Blind - Focus: American Action Fund for Blind Children and Adults. - Programs: Braille Books program, ShareBraille, Braille Reading Pals Club. - Extras: Free Braille calendars for 2025 – available to order. Gift Ideas for the Giving Season - Ideas: Braille gifts from Etsy, including Braille fidget toys, pegboards, and cards. - Recommended Stores: Blind Mice Mega Mall, Blind Bookstop, Blind Girl Designs. Global Braille Resources - Spotlight: Sao Mai Center in Vietnam. - Offerings: Free Braille translation software, supporting over 150 languages, music notation, and tactile graphics. - Demo and Resources: Check their playlist and English-translated site for software demos. December Preview - Upcoming Topics: UK's Clear Vision Library, Perkins-made holiday cards, part two of the Braille gift guide. Links Unmute Show Website: unmute.show American Action Fund: actionfund.org ShareBraille Program: sharebraille.org Blind Mice Mega Mall: blindmicemegamall.com Blind Bookstop: Accessible through Blind Mice Mega Mall Blind Girl Designs: blindgirldesigns.com Sao Mai Center: saomaicenter.org Enjoy the show and feel free to send feedback or suggestions to [email protected]. Send us your feedback online: https://pinecast.com/feedback/unmute-presents-on-acb-communi/92356b02-ef8e-4e96-a968-e196dd65e660 This podcast is powered by Pinecast. Try Pinecast for free, forever, no credit card required. If you decide to upgrade, use coupon code r-431b7d for 40% off for 4 months, and support Unmute Podcast Network. Read transcript Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Unmute, we dive into the world of Braille signage, labeling solutions, and tips for everyday tasks for those who use Braille. Here’s a breakdown of the topics discussed: Podcast Schedule Update We’re expanding our schedule! Starting in November, we’ll be live on the first Saturday of every month. Visit unmute.show for more details and updates. Braille Signage Adventures Ever had an embarrassing moment because of lack of Braille signage? Our host shares a couple of stories, from picking the wrong restroom door to pressing the wrong button on a train. These incidents highlight the importance of proper signage and labeling for the blind community, with a nod to regulations like the ADA. We also explore the fascinating world of accessible ATMs and how Braille on ATMs has evolved over time. Exploring Braille Signage Requirements Our host goes down a rabbit hole, explaining the ADA requirements for Braille signage in public places, from restrooms to elevators. Want to know how Braille signs are made, their regulations, and how they can differ in different spaces? Tune in to learn about tactile signage and Braille placement standards in the U.S. Braille Labeling Tips for Everyday Use For everyday labeling needs, we talk about inexpensive Braille labelers, handy tips on labeling household items, and even high-tech solutions like the Six Dot Braille Label Maker. Whether you’re looking for a simple handheld labeler or a more advanced tech solution, we’ve got something for you. Where to Find Braille Sign Makers Need a custom Braille sign? We give a rundown of a few popular websites where you can get them, like BrailleSignsPro.com and adasignfactory.com. Plus, a humorous look at Braille signs popping up on eBay! Upcoming Episodes Looking ahead, we’ll be interviewing guests who have visited Louis Braille’s house in France. Stay tuned for that interview, coming near the end of the year or in early 2025. Join the Unmute Club Don't forget! For only $3 a month, you can join the Unmute Club to access exclusive classes like the recent Braille course, available for download or live participation. Head over to unmute.show for more information. As always, if you have questions or feedback, feel free to email us at [email protected]! Stay tuned for more exciting topics and stories! Send us your feedback online: https://pinecast.com/feedback/unmute-presents-on-acb-communi/a9c13f7b-a6db-4d78-a828-c93af475b784 This podcast is powered by Pinecast. Try Pinecast for free, forever, no credit card required. If you decide to upgrade, use coupon code r-431b7d for 40% off for 4 months, and support Unmute Podcast Network. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices