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Should Blind Children Learn Print Letters?
If your child is blind, you have probably been told (more than once!) that braille is essential. Absolutely yes.
But here’s a question that surprises a lot of families:
Should blind children also learn print letter shapes?
Mihaela Aurora Christi, professor of Philology and a primary school teacher, thinks so! She shares a powerful story about a totally blind student who learned to read and write print letters by touch, and why that skill became a bridge to inclusion, communication, and confidence.
In her full article, you’ll discover:
- Why print letter shapes can help a blind child connect with the “print world” (labels, signs, school materials, etc)
- A fascinating example of how print letters can support communication between blind and deaf classmates
- Why learning print does not replace braille, but can strengthen your child’s overall literacy toolbox
- How giving kids multiple ways to access language builds independence and belonging
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✨ Spotlight: Print + Braille Play-Doh Stampers
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If you’re looking for a sensory, hands-on way to practice braille while also reinforcing print letter awareness, these Braille Play-Doh Stampers are a really smart pick.
What they are:
A set of A–Z stampers that press big, easy-to-feel braille dots into Play-Doh (or other soft dough). Each stamper is labeled with both braille and the matching print letter, so kids can explore how the two systems connect, without it feeling like a lesson.
Why they're great:
- Braille input + print pairing: Your child feels the braille pattern in the dough, and you can immediately point out the matching print letter on the stamper
- Multi-sensory learning: Press, peel, touch, and compare, which can make both braille and print shapes more meaningful
- Real-world bridge: It’s an easy way to start conversations like, “This braille letter is B, and this is what B looks like in print.”
- Great for mixed groups: Helpful if siblings, classmates, or caregivers are learning alongside your child, since everyone can reference the print letter while your child accesses the braille
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Literacy for blind kids is never one-size-fits-all. Some children will love exploring print letter shapes. Others will not need it right now. What matters most is that your child has consistent access to language in ways that make sense for them, and that braille stays central when appropriate.
If you read the article, I’d love to hear what you think! Have you ever tried introducing print letters in a tactile way?
✨🔤
Amber Bobnar
Founder, WonderBaby.org
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