Skip to content
Tips and guides

Making Symbols Portable

This system helps to make picture symbols more portable for students with low vision who need Alternative Augmentative Communication (AAC) support.

It can be a real challenge to create a system to make communication symbols portable for students with visual impairments who need Alternative Augmentative Communication (AAC) support.  One of my classes uses old DVD cases for the picture symbols.

The cases have Velcro on the outside (front and back). 

Strips of Velcro on outside of case
Strips of Velcro on outside of case

The inside has the storage space for the symbols.  

Picture symbols inside DVD case
Picture symbols inside DVD case

I REALLY like this idea. I’m thinking of expanding this for my students:

  • braille vocabulary words per activity/class
  • symbols for out of classroom (i.e. O&M lesson, cafeteria, community)
  • homework vocabulary 
  • math symbols 
  • matching games

We have printed Mayer Johnson symbols and laminated them.  I’m thinking I’ll add Velcro to the inside so the cards don’t fall out. 

Tactile symbols for bowling and "Let's go!"
Tactile symbols for bowling and “Let’s go!”

I’ll need to use a different type of case for my students who use tactile symbols from tactile connections.  These symbols are too big for the DVD case.

Collage of making symbols portable: ideas for students with low vision
SHARE THIS ARTICLE
Standardized tactile symbol for washing dishes
Tips and guides

A Standard Tactile Symbol System: Graphic Language for Individuals who are Blind and Unable to Learn Braille

Metal spoon
Tips and guides

Routines as Instructional Strategy

A young girl and her teacher use a sequence box to organize the steps of a routine for making dog biscuits.
Tips and guides

Make It Routine