Generate Tactile Graphics on the Fly with TactileDoodle

At APH, we want to provide teachers and students products that will make everyday activities more accessible. The TactileDoodle serves as an easy solution for creating simple tactile graphics in seconds. Now, teachers can utilize the drawing board to produce supplemental materials during a lesson, and students can use it to craft tactile pictures. 

About TactileDoodle 

Tactile Literacy Product Manager, Karen Poppe, explained, “TactileDoodle consists of a black rubber pad that is protected and surrounded by a green frame that has a built-in resting location for a person’s hand as they draw. On either side of the vertical edges of the drawing pad are two standard clip board-like clips that hold a sheet of Tactile Drawing Film in place.” Teachers and students can use the short single-tip stylus with a rounded end to make images that raise instantly. The black mat paired with the white film turn creations into high-contrast graphics, perfect for students who have low vision. 

TactileDoodle’s Many Uses 

Younger students can utilize the TactileDoodle to hone and exercise a variety of tactile reading skills. For example, students can draw or track multiple line types and paths made on the TactileDoodle—straight, zigzag, stair-step, dashed lines, solid lines, etc. Teach basic letters and practice handwriting with TactileDoodle. Students can learn to transition from a 3D object to a 2D image. Simply draw a cup, spoon, or ball. Examine what features are forfeited when comparing the real object next to the 2-D drawing produced on the board.  

“The TactileDoodle allows students to be creators of their own graphics, as well as independently design or add to tactile illustrations,” said Karen. In art class, students can trace their hand on the drawing film and decorate the tracing as a “turkey” for Thanksgiving. During recess or outside of school, they can also engage in interactive games, such as tic-tac-toe or hangman. 

Since the TactileDoodle is so easy to use, it can be a valuable asset to educators who find themselves in a teachable moment that could be helped by a tactile graphic. Older students benefit from TactileDoodle when their teachers create basic maps of street layouts or compass directions to assist with orientation and mobility lessons. Educators can show students how to tell time by producing clocks on TactileDoodle’s surface and reinforce other math concepts, such as geometric shapes and different types of graphs. Science experiments can be demonstrated immediately with one quick graphic. 

Praise for TactileDoodle 

Field evaluators reported TactileDoodle to have many advantages. The product is lightweight, portable, sturdy, has a sleek design, and is a “good size for little hands.” During testing, TactileDoodle was used in the company of sighted peers and family members. One evaluator said, “Everyone who tried it enjoyed its different feel and look. Most everyone commented on the black background and great contrast with the film.” Another described their experience with the TactileDoodle and young learners. They said, “The kindergarten student’s peers were working on a coloring page when this was introduced. They were all excited that my student was able to do the same task as them.” A final evaluator added, “My students’ sighted classmates were intrigued by the raised lines.” 

Purchase TactileDoodle today! If you have a great use for your TactileDoodle or have a tactile picture to share, post it on social media, and tag us. We would love to see it.