A Journey Toward Inclusivity in Building with Lego
In Newton, Massachusetts, a remarkable initiative is transforming the experience of building with Lego for blind and visually impaired individuals. Matthew Shifrin, a 28-year-old who lost his sight in childhood, has harnessed the power of creativity and technology to establish a nonprofit organization dedicated to making the popular building blocks accessible for everyone.
The Genesis of Bricks for the Blind
Shifrin’s journey to creating Bricks for the Blind began when he was 13. A family friend gifted him a binder filled with braille instructions to construct a Middle Eastern palace. This pivotal moment allowed him to build a Lego set independently for the first time. “It was truly an amazing experience because I was completely in control of the whole building process,” Shifrin noted, reflecting on the importance of autonomy in creative pursuits.
Following the passing of his babysitter who introduced him to those braille instructions, Shifrin sought to honor her memory by expanding access to similar resources for others. Three years ago, he launched Bricks for the Blind, a website that provides downloadable Lego building instructions in braille for free. Shifrin’s nonprofit now boasts a team of 30 sighted writers and blind testers, further embodying Shifrin’s passion for inclusivity.
Expanding Opportunities for Independent Building
Bricks for the Blind has rapidly made an impact, with instructions for over 540 Lego sets available ranging from simple cars to complex 4,000-piece structures. The downloadable guides can be utilized in several formats, whether printed in braille, accessed through braille computers, or read via screen readers, allowing blind individuals the opportunity to build without reliance on sighted assistance.
While a sighted person may be needed to sort the Lego pieces, there are apps that use artificial intelligence to help identify the bricks as well. Approximately 3,000 builders from across the United States and as far as Australia have utilized these accessible instructions.
Collaborations with the Lego Group
Shifrin’s advocacy did not stop at launching his nonprofit. In 2017, he approached the Lego Group in Denmark to discuss making their products more accessible. This dialogue led to the development of audio and braille instructions for a selection of Lego sets, officially launched in 2019. In addition, the company introduced Lego Braille Bricks in 2020, featuring tactile studs that correspond to letters and symbols, further enhancing the inclusivity of their toy offerings.
Shifrin’s efforts have garnered widespread support and appreciation, particularly from those who were previously unable to engage with Lego sets. “We couldn’t build with our kids. They didn’t want our help, but now we can teach our grandkids about Lego,” one grateful grandparent shared. This sentiment reflects the wider impact that accessible instruction methods have had, bridging generations and allowing families to connect.
Empowering the Blind Community through Creativity
Testimonies from users highlight the independence that Lego building offers to individuals with vision loss. Daniel Millan, who lost his sight due to a tumor, expressed how building sets through Shifrin’s initiative has given him a sense of freedom and empowerment. “It’s not about what I can’t do anymore. It’s more about what I can do,” he noted after completing sets with his wife.
Natalie Charbonneau, also blind, emphasized the joy it brought her to build Lego sets alongside her 5-year-old son. She highlighted the newfound ability to participate without depending on her sighted husband, creating enriching experiences for both her and her child. “It’s something that I can now do with him as well, which is empowering,” she stated.
Educators and advocates in the community have voiced their support for Shifrin’s mission as well. Teri Turgeon, the education director for community programs at Perkins School for the Blind, remarked on the significance of allowing blind children to experience the same joys as their sighted peers, facilitating growth in fine motor and tactile skills while fostering creativity.
A Bright Future for Inclusive Building
As Shifrin continues to lead this innovative movement, he remains committed to making the building experience enjoyable and accessible for all. In a recent encounter, he assisted fellow blind builder Minh Ha in constructing a go-kart, demonstrating support and encouragement throughout the building process. Ha reflected on her journey, noting the deep satisfaction that comes from participating in this culturally cherished activity.
“It is something incredibly satisfying and also relaxing to be able to put together these very intricate, very beautiful and architecturally complex builds,” she observed.
In an era where inclusivity is increasingly valued, Matthew Shifrin and Bricks for the Blind exemplify the harmonious blend of creativity, technology, and compassion, proving that the joy of building with Lego is for everyone.
Source: Original Reporting
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