FirstTap uses fun games and activities to children who are blind or have low vision the commands and gestures (like swiping, pinching, and tapping) to use Apple’s operating system (iOS) its built-in vision accessibility features.
Created by CNIB for young children (ages 2 +), FirstTap activities are tailored to different skill levels, so kids can choose exercises that match their age, skill level and interests.
These activities help young learners to:
- Explore and interact with the iPad: Gently touching the screen, screen orientation, and basic navigation.
- Use VoiceOver features and gestures: Split tap, rotor use and reading gestures.
- Customize visual content: Turn off visuals to reduce screen time or to test comprehension and navigation skills.
- Develop listening skills: Follow directions, recognize sound effect prompts, and remember their purpose.
- Build social skills: Games can be played independently, with peers, or supported by an adult.
As children practice and learn with the app, they develop the transferrable skills needed to use Apple’s accessibility features like the Zoom screen magnifier, VoiceOver screen reader, and more.
Supporting parents and kids in and out of the classroom
As technology continues to shape how children learn and explore the world around them, digital literacy is becoming as fundamental as reading and writing.
“Technology is a game-changer for people for people who are blind, Deafblind or have low vision. It opens doors to independence and opportunity,” says Craig Peterson, Executive Director, CNIB Alberta & NWT and CNIB Next Generation. “The earlier children with sight loss are introduced to technology and develop the skills to capitalize on its potential, the more it becomes a natural part of how they learn, connect, and thrive at school, home, work, and beyond.”
FirstTap was developed in collaboration with ObjectiveEd and shaped by feedback from children with sight loss and their families as part of a research project focused on digital literacy.
The free app is available in English and French on the Apple App Store in Canada.