Computers for a blind child.?

This is actually a good question. I have blind friends who just have something hooked up to their computers that read the text to them. I will ask one of my friends about it & edit my answer.

BTW, your 1st 2 answerers have no idea what they are talking about. My blind friends know how to maneuver through the Net, etc.

Edit: Mindy says 1 option is to buy a regular computer & then buy a speech software program such as Jaws or Window Eyes. That will allow the blind person to hear what's on the screen.

The 2nd option is to buy a machine, such as a BrailleNote from Humanware in California. Their website is humanware.com. This is a type of computer designed especially for the blind.

No computers especially for the blind, but there is computer software that makes it possible for a blind person, like myself, to use a regular computer, like I'm doing now.

You don't need a braille keyboard. A blind person can learn to touch type, especially if they're still young. This means that they type without looking, by memory, just like most office workers do. There is software to help kids learn to do this like Type to Learn, Mavis Beakon, and Talking Typer which is especially good for blind children.

Then there are programs like JAWS or WindowEyes that convert text to speech so the blind child can hear what's on screen and navigate using sound and the keyboard. To try a demo of Jaws, go to freedomscientific.com. This works on just about any computer. You do not need a special computer if you're blind. I am using a regular Dell laptop, and I am blind.

Your cousin is more like you than not. Treat him just like anyone else. Don't think just because he has a disability he isn't just a regular kid. He will learn his way around the house. The main thing to remember is not to rearrange the furniture without telling him. He should have an IEP or 504 plan that will say when he needs an aide and what classes he will take and how it will happen. He can do almost anything you can do...he just needs some modifications. I knew a blind girl in college who rode a special bike with a guide. There are lots of ways to modify things so he can enjoy life and have fun. He will let you know what he is interested in, just like any other teen he will have things he likes to do. DON'T grab his hand when you are with him. What you do is offer him your arm so you can guide him along. He will probably show you how he likes to do it. The main thing is to treat him with respect and love. He is right around your age so you should have a lot in common. Don't treat him like he is "special" just treat him like any other kid and you will be fine.

Easy Talk Computers

2201 Limerick Dr.

Tallahassee, FL 32309

Phone: (850) 906-9821

Fax: (850) 894-9203 (Must call phone before sending fax)

To find out more about Easy Talk, and what we can do for you, select About Easy Talk Computers Or e-mail: sales@easytalkcomputers.com

Found this website for easy talk computers for the blind, maybe this could help.

There is no technology that makes possible the use of a computer from a blind person.A Braille keyboard does not solve the problem.You need to interact with the screen

What??? And lets say there is a Braille keyboard,how are you supposed to see what are you doing on the screen?