Symbolic language teaching and communications system utilizing tactile

Abstract

A symbolic language teaching and communication system is disclosed which includes at least one block having a pattern of raised protrusions with rounded top surfaces for tactile discrimination. Each pattern represents an alpha-numeric character for recognition by a visually impaired individual, and the block has indicia on one of the sides corresponding to the alpha-numeric character for recognition by a non-visually impaired individual. Each block also has a curved region on one of the corners of the block to provide for the proper orientation of the block on a block retaining slate when forming words or sentences with a plurality of blocks. The block retaining slate also has a rounded corner to provide for the proper orientation of the block retaining slate when forming or reading words or sentences on the block retaining slate. The blocks are removably engaged with the block retaining slate by protrusions which are frictionally engaged with protrusions on the block retaining slate. The block retaining slate has a triangular portion between the engaging members to provide for proper alignment and spacing of the blocks on the retaining slate. The triangular portion can be formed as columns or as rows on the block retaining slate depending upon the language which is being used. The back side of the block retaining slate may be adapted to be placed proximate another surface or removably attached to another surface by providing either a felt region, a rubber region, a magnetic region or a hook/pile coupling region.