CNIB is currently seeking children (ages 2-6) who are blind or low vision to participate in an exciting new research project focused on building digital literacy skills and technology competencies.

Funded by the Government of Canada's Early Learning and Child Care – Innovation Program, CNIB’s Early Years Digital Literacy Project will teach children with sight loss and their families the necessary digital literacy skills to effectively use technology and navigate online environments and support school readiness.

"A young boy plays on a tablet. The picture is an overhead view of the child playing tapping the tablet screen and interacting with the educational app.
Project Overview

In collaboration with ObjectiveEd, CNIB has developed an educational app that will provide children who are blind or low vision access to foundational learning tools designed to develop their digital literacy skills and technology competencies. The app, available in English and French, will use gamification techniques to introduce children to various features and gestures, such as tapping and swiping, which will be reinforced through interactive modules. Throughout the project, caregiver support will be available to ensure participants receive assistance and guidance as needed. Watch demos of the app. 

What to expect

Families enrolled in the project will work with their child to complete a series of engaging activities and games using the app and collaborate with CNIB’s research team, sharing their experiences at various intervals over the course of a year.

As a part of the project, participants will receive an iPad at no cost, which they can keep once the project concludes.  

A young child sits on a couch and plays on a tablet. The picture is an overhead view of the child playing on the tablet and their reflection shows on the tablet screen.
Why digital literacy matters 

Technology is a foundational part of our lives, and digital literacy is essential for teaching and empowering young people to develop skills that will set them up for future success. But, without a systematic approach to introducing digital literacy to children with sight loss, many children who are blind or low vision are missing out on developing these critical skills. 

By cultivating these skills at a young age, children will discover new ways to communicate and connect with the world, and access a wealth of resources and information, as they build their confidence and become more independent.

Enroll in the project

By enrolling in the project, participants must undergo an interview and collaborate with CNIB’s research team, sharing their experiences at various intervals over the course of a year. 

To enroll your child in the project or for more information, contact Christina Clarke, Program Coordinator, Early Years Digital Literacy Project at christina.clarke@cnib.ca or call 647-502-3426.

The CNIB Early Years Digital Literacy Project is funded by the Government of Canada's Early Learning and Child Care - Innovation Program.