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Accessible Assistive Technology Resources Bridges Blog Extracurricular Resources Independent Living Resources Recreation Resources

Accessible Games

As we all wait out this socially distant winter of 2021, consider playing some games with friends and family to pass the time. Whether you are looking for online or in-person games, here are some accessible options to jazz up the doldrums of January and February:

For in-person games, try checking out the NFB’s Independence Market. You can place orders via email or phone.

Another great option for in-person gaming is 64 Ounce Games. Check out their accessible games and their accessibility kits.

To stir up some competition with family and friends virtually, take a look at RS Games, which is available on computer or smart phone. Players can enjoy choosing from twenty accessible game options, including Monopoly, Scrabble, and Uno.

You can also challenge folks to games by using QuentinC’s Playroom. This platform can be used by downloading the app to your PC, or playing over the Internet. Players can access 29 different games, including Dominos, Quiz Party, Chess, and 1000 Miles.  

We can also suggest Dice World for playing games on your phone. You can choose from six dice games, including Farkle and Yatzee. The app is available on both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.  

Contact us

Follow the Bridges Helpdesk Facebook page for more transition tips, and please contact the Free Helpdesk for Maryland Blind/Low Vision Transition Students, Families, and Educators anytime using:

This unique project is being coordinated through The IMAGE Center of Maryland, a center for independent living in Towson, and it is funded by a grant from the Maryland Department of Education Division of Special Education/Early Intervention Services.

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Accessible Assistive Technology Resources Bridges Blog Educational Resources Extracurricular Resources Independent Living Resources Information Resources Recreation Resources

Explore the Wonders of Audio Description!

Audio description provides verbal descriptions of visual elements of a movie, television show, or other videos. These elements include unspoken words on the screen, descriptions of the setting, and details about characters’ non-verbal actions, facial expressions, dress, etc.

Audio description (AD) is built into the video. In professional AD, the AD voice is usually different than that of the actors, and the description is inserted between the dialogue.

Not only does this rich source of information help blind/low vision individuals enjoy the show more, it is great for everyone. I’m typically sighted, and I LOVE having audio description.

AD can be great for any videos you watch:

  • When a teacher assigns a video, ask that you receive an audio described version. If the teacher doesn’t know what you’re talking about, ask him/her to contact the Bridges Helpdesk and we’ll show them how to find or make what you need!
  • “How to” videos on the internet
  • Movies and shows you watch for recreation

Warning: There is a BUNCH of information below. Please don’t feel overwhelmed. Don’t hesitate to contact us about AD or anything else. Follow the Bridges Helpdesk Facebook page for more transition tips, and please contact the Free Helpdesk for Maryland Blind/Low Vision Transition Students, Families, and Educators anytime using:

What is available in audio description?

Of course, this information changes all the time: especially with regard to television and movies. However, here are a few sources to get you started:

Now, where to get it? Here are a few sources:

Free videos

Free audio only

Fee-based video

  • Cable: Major cable television providers offer audio description as a service. Please note that AD will only work when the original show has been made with AD. Check out Xfinity/Comcast’s accessibility page, which includes a video about AD (also called video description):
  • Amazon Prime described videos
  • Netflix AD information
  • Hulu AD information
  • Disney+
    • All new, original Disney+ shows have AD
    • AD has been added to many older movies and shows
    • All Pixar movies are now audio described
    • Many Disney movies are also described
    • Note: The free and accessible Disney Movies Anywhere app has been discontinued, and its replacement, the Movies Anywhere app, does NOT support audio description

Holiday audio description offerings

Contact us

Again, please follow the Bridges Helpdesk Facebook page for more transition tips, and please contact the Free Helpdesk for Maryland Blind/Low Vision Transition Students, Families, and Educators anytime using:

This unique project is being coordinated through The IMAGE Center of Maryland, a center for independent living in Towson, and it is funded by a grant from the Maryland Department of Education Division of Special Education/Early Intervention Services.

Categories
Accessible Assistive Technology Resources Bridges Blog Independent Living Resources Information Resources Recreation Resources

Thanksgiving edition!

With time off from school and work, our thoughts turn to…FOOD!

If you are using prepared mixes (and why not?), DirectionsForMe is a great tool to find accessible directions, nutrition information, ingredients, and sometimes allergy warnings quickly and easily

Use the search function or go to the categories page and you’ll find so much information!

Want to make Jiffy corn muffin mix? They have it!

How about Stove Top stuffing? They have it!

Brownies for dessert? You’ll find the information on the box at directionsforme.org

Contact us

Follow the Bridges Helpdesk Facebook page for more transition tips, and please contact the Free Helpdesk for Maryland Blind/Low Vision Transition Students, Families, and Educators anytime using:

This unique project is being coordinated through The IMAGE Center of Maryland, a center for independent living in Towson, and it is funded by a grant from the Maryland Department of Education Division of Special Education/Early Intervention Services.