by Connor Courtien, RDPFS Intern
Graduations mark the culmination of years of effort in a person’s life, concluding one chapter and beginning the next. For this reason, they are significant milestones worth celebrating. As we head into graduation season, here are some ideas for accessible cards and gifts to recognize the achievements of students in your life:
Tactile Vision Graphics offers several braille greeting cards, including those to commemorate a graduation. These cards include both braille and raised large print text for the cover, as well as for the message on the inside. One example has a cover image of a cap with a tassel, as well as a diploma, with text stating “Congratulations on your Graduation!” The message inside says “Wishing you success and happiness in your future endeavors.” Another option for an accessible card for graduation is a talking greeting card available from Talking Products, which allows you to record a 40-second voice message that plays when the card is opened. It comes with an on-off switch to conserve the battery, which can also be replaced, allowing the recipient to preserve the message forever.
As for gift ideas, there are many options depending on interest. For someone who enjoys playing games, consider getting them an accessible board game, such as Braille Deluxe Scrabble or Braille and Low Vision Monopoly. If they’re interested in tech, a digital assistant device such as an Amazon Echo or Apple HomePod can be a great gift. These devices offer a lot of utility, allowing the user to do multiple tasks, such as getting the news and weather, making purchases, and listening to music, to name a few. All of these actions are voice-operated, making them excellent options for those with visual impairments.
For more graduation card and gift ideas, check out these articles from VisionAware, Gift Ideas for People Who Are Blind or Low Vision, and the American Council of the Blind, Accessible Cards and Gifts.
