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Ana Ganahl is not blind, in fact, she can see just fine. So why is this 12-year-old today’s guest blogger?
Ana can read Braille.
Her curiosity for Braille came from her interest in service dogs; Ana taught herself the simple alphabet using house hold materials. Yes, she taught herself. Ana said she looks forward to having friends she can actually get to know, through Braille, as time goes on, raising puppies and eventually working with service dogs. The following is her story.
My interest in service dogs first piqued my curiosity in Braille as I read stories of dog guides. I also read Louis Braille’s biography which caused me to want to learn more. Using index cards as paper, and a cutting board and sewing needle as slate and stylus, I learned the simple alphabet. My dad took me to the American Printing House for the Blind (APH) in Louisville, Kentucky, where I learned more about the history of Braille and obtained a real slate and stylus.
From then on learning Braille became much easier and faster. I began writing notes to my blind friend at church, Mrs. Stratton. She gave me a book on learning Grade 1 braille and became my pen-pal giving me notes of encouragement and recipes. I was able to borrow a brailler from Easter Seals, then I really took off! I was able to write much faster, similar to 
the difference between handwriting and typing. I was also able to understand the letters better as I wrote them because I was writing them backward.
With the brailler, I continued to write notes and began copying a bible study into Braille for my friend. I also have a budding pen-pal at a nearby college. Soon I hope to have a brailler of my own to finish copying the bible study, copy church bulletins for Mrs. Stratton, write more notes to both friends, and continue learning Braille. –Ana Ganahl, 12.
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Many people don’t think of American Sign Language (ASL) when considering learning a new language. In reality, it’s just as difficult, if not more difficult to learn compared to a spoken foreign language like Spanish or Japanese. ASL is truly a language because it’s a means of complete communication for a distinct group of people. Because it’s unique to any other language on Earth, it’s challenging to learn and it forces the learner to think differently than ever before. Many resources are available to assist in the learning process to make it easier and fun. We Sign is a company that provides resources for people interested in learning ASL.
We Sign offers products available for children, adults and families. We Sign DVD topics include ABC’s, numbers, colors, animals, rhymes, holidays and others. DVDs are targeted to people of certain ages and focus on vocabulary that is most relevant to people of that age. We Sign offers appropriate signing activities for babies, toddlers, preschoolers and elementary children. A highlight of this product is the interactive movements and engaging songs with sign language for children.
We Sign also provides practical information for parents and teachers for language growth, vocabulary and early communication. This product also provides support and demonstrations for people with no previous signing experience.
We Sign products are available through many different vendors. The company began 18 years ago and has won over 50 national awards for their products.
Jul 152011
Information from the INDATA Project is now available via podcast! Every Friday, the INDATA Project will release two podcasts featuring new assistive technology projects. The podcasts are available for viewing on the INDATA Project website and on iTunes. The “Assistive Technology Update” is a fast-paced weekly update for AT professionals and enthusiasts. The “Accessibility Minute” is designed for all listeners to provide assistive technology tips and tricks.
Assistive Technology Update +Featuring an in-depth interview with Dave Hershberger of Saltillo.
If you have trouble viewing these podcasts, please visit the INDATA website.
Many people with disabilities benefit from working with art by enjoying the freedom of expression. Art studios for people with disabilities are located across the country. Through art, people gain independence and self-worth. Several art studios specifically catered to people with disabilities are highlighted below.
Creative Diversity, located in Louisville, KY, is a place for people to build meaningful relationships, learn about art and gain confidence. The organization is dedicated to integrating people with disabilities into the cultural community. This studio specifically targets people with disabilities who are on a professional track in the art field.
The Open Door Art Studio (ODAS) is dedicated to overcoming limitations and and giving people with disabilities the freedom of expression. Art projects include acrylic painting, clay sculptures, jewelry painting, ceramic totems, water color projects and sewing. The studio functions with the support of many volunteers who have a passion for helping others. Volunteers partner with the studio to create meaningful opportunities through individual education and mentoring. ODAS is located in Columbus, OH.
The VSA Indiana (VSAI) provides arts education focuses on creating quality arts experiences, art education and disability awareness. For over 30 years, the organization has delivered unique arts experiences for people with disabilities in the state of Indiana. Ongoing partnerships are currently based in Columbus, Evansville, Lebanon, Marion, Muncie, South Bend, and Terre Haute. Collectively these programs annually serve more than 20,000 people. Professional artists teach classes and VSAI regularly hosts a gallery of the created art.
Outside the Box, located in Indianapolis, IN, hosts custom services for people with developmental disabilities. The mission of the organization is to encourage visitors to be leaders in their lives and enjoy meaningful days. People who visit this studio can expect low staff to participant ratios.
Art studios for people with disabilities exist all over the country in different types of communities. The studios mentioned above are only a few of the many located in the midwest, where the INDATA Project functions.