Setting the Stage for Tactile Understanding - American Printing ...

CENTER STAGEThermoformed ObjectsCENTER STAGE activities introduce thermoformed objects that serve as anintermediate tactile format between real objects and less detailed raised-lineillustrations. Thermoformed images have the advantage of retaining some of theidentifying characteristics of the real object (e.g., the teeth of a comb, the bristlesof a toothbrush) that help the child to tactually recognize it in a “hands-onglance.” Yet, tactile thermoformed objects still pose challenges for instant tactilerecognition because the function of the real object is lost (e.g., the spoon cannotbe used for eating), and its true texture is forfeited (e.g., the cold metal feel of thekey is altered). The gradual shift from real to semi-abstract representations usingthermoformed pictures still requires tactile interpretation. However, this tactileformat increases the chances of successful recognition because the twodimensionalmold so closely resembles the real object and captures one or moresalient features.For each of the 12 real objects included in Setting the Stage for TactileUnderstanding, a thermoformed counterpart is provided. Once the child acquires47 Center Stage