Technology

Assistive technology for children with a vision impairment

For children with a vision impairment, technology is vital. It develops learning, creativity, life skills, and ultimately, confidence and independence.

At Guide Dogs we believe all children with a vision impairment should have access to technology. Our Tech for All service provides families with the technology they need. This includes specialist technology and software or our sensory toy bundles to use outside of school (while stocks last). Our expert team can also provide personalised advice about technology to families.

What type of technology would you like to apply for?

Assistive equipment

Sensory equipment

Tech enquiry

Our Technology and Sensory grants are now closed for 2024, unfortunately, we are no longer accepting applications. Please note we will not be offering iPads as part of our technology grant offer in 2025.

What Technology could do for you and your family

There is a wide range of specialist equipment and software that can be fully customised to your preferences. Technologies include laptops or desktop computers with screen reading software or magnification, refreshable braille devices and video magnifiers.

We believe children with sight loss should be able to try different technologies and learn a range of skills, so as they grow they have a choice over the way they want to communicate and learn.

Many of these items have a high price tag. That’s why we provide technology and software for your child to use at home. From computer equipment to day-to-day items, such as handheld magnifiers. We can also work with a range of suppliers to source equipment with pre-loaded software.
Children with a vision impairment learn about the world around them in different ways. For very young children, sensory play is excellent for developing physical, social and emotional skills.

Sensory toys can help your child develop crucial motor and cognitive skills, such as their hand-eye coordination and the pincer grasp, by using lights, sounds and different textures. These toys build emotional skills by giving your child the chance to make choices over their play, and can be used to create a safe, calming environment. Sensory toys can also create activities that bring the whole family together.
Our Information and Guidance service offers you the opportunity to speak with a member of the technology team about the best assistive technology to suit your child’s needs.

Technology supports your child in learning vital life skills, grows their independence and builds confidence, so get in touch with our experts and learn how technology can make a difference in your life.