News : Wesley Methodist women partner with Iowa Braille on baby blanket project

The women of Ruth Circle at Wesley United Methodist Church have been involved in making tactile blankets for babies who are blind or visually impaired. For these children, their hands are their eyes. The blankets are made of recycled material that was donated by church members and friends. Each patchwork square has a different texture for the children to explore, such as corduroy, fleece, denim, satin or velvet. After each one is finished, items are attached to encourage play. A teddy bear may peak from inside a pocket. Plastic scrubbies, bells, or a simple measuring spoon may be added. The blankets are then distributed to teachers of the visually impaired throughout the state for their early intervention program. They help babies realize their hands will give them a lot of information as well as some cuddle time.

For more information about this project, call Barb Beau at Barb Beau 472-5349 or via email at rbbeau@msn.com.