How “Explore with Robi” Became a Braille Book

In Guatemala, access to quality education is not the same for every child. Factors like economic inequality, geography, and social attitudes often limit opportunities, especially for students with disabilities. Inclusive education still faces major challenges: some schools separate students into “special” classrooms, while others allow them to sit in regular classes without truly learning or participating.

But real inclusion means every student learns together, with the right tools and support. And one of the most powerful tools for students with visual impairments is something many people overlook: accessible educational materials.

That is where RoboMind’s “Explore with Robi” book series comes in.

This project was created to make science fun and accessible for kids. But making it inclusive meant going beyond colorful pages and simple text, it meant ensuring that children with visual impairments could read, learn, and explore independently. And that is where our journey into braille began.

The Benemérito Comité Pro-Ciegos y Sordos de Guatemala is an organization that has been working since 2002 to make information accessible for people with visual disabilities. Inside the committee, the Bibliographic Production Unit transforms books into formats like braille, digital audio, and electronic text.

Carlos Eduardo, a member of this unit and a person with visual impairment himself, shared what it takes to turn a regular book into braille. It is not just translation, it is transformation.

First, the book must be converted into a digital format that can be adapted into braille code. This includes reviewing the text carefully to ensure clarity and accuracy. Then comes the technical step. The file is sent to a special machine called a braille embosser.

For “Explore with Robi,” the team used the Index Everest 5 printer. This machine does not use ink. Instead, it creates raised dots on paper that can be read by touch. It can also print on both sides of the page, a technique called interpoint printing, which saves space and makes books more practical.

The embosser is set up through a digital interface, where technicians adjust details like paper size and formatting. Once everything is ready, the machine feeds sheets automatically and begins printing. Slowly, page by page, the story becomes something you can feel with your fingertips.

The result is more than just a book: it’s access.

Braille materials are essential because they allow children to develop real literacy skills. While audiobooks are helpful, they cannot fully teach spelling, grammar, or punctuation. Braille gives students independence by allowing them to read, write, and learn on their own terms.

But inclusion goes beyond braille. Educational materials for children with special needs can include pictograms, tactile graphics, audiobooks, and assistive technology. These tools help break down barriers, support different learning styles, and build confidence.

RoboMinds is convinced that the future of education depends on people who understand that learning should be accessible to everyone. Projects like “Explore with Robi” show that with creativity and effort, it is possible to design materials that truly include all learners.

Creating a braille book is about empathy, innovation, and the belief that every child deserves the chance to learn, explore, and succeed.