The Tactile Framework
A framework for learners developing bodily-tactile communication and tactile sign language skills.
Supporting children with deafblindness, I kept hitting the same problem: nothing existed to track their progress and help set goals for bodily-tactile communication and tactile sign language. So I built this framework, and it's free to download.
What it does
The framework supports practitioners to assess and develop bodily-tactile communication and tactile sign language, stage by stage. It's a pilot: released for testing and trial, not yet a finished, fully validated tool. Every download, and every piece of feedback, shapes what it becomes.
Who it's for
Deafblind consultants and practitioners with a working understanding of tactile language and language development, such as speech and language therapists, and qualified/specialist sensory teachers.
You'll get the most from the framework if you have tactile sign language skills yourself. Without them, work as a team, a consultant, an intervenor, an interpreter, whoever the observation needs. Training in bodily-tactile communication and tactile sign language before you start is recommended.
The four stages
The framework sets out four stages of tactile communication development.
01
Sensory Learners
02
Emergent Language Learners
03
Foundation Language Learners
04
Language Learners
Training
I'd like to run webinars on using the framework as an observational tool, though none are scheduled yet. Email me if you're interested, and I'll let you know when one's coming up.
Download & feedback
Download the framework and you'll be asked to join the community of practice mailing list. I use it sparingly, mostly to share updates on the framework itself.
Enter your details on the sign-up form and the framework will be sent straight to your inbox. If you have any trouble downloading it, or you'd rather ask a question or share feedback first, get in touch directly.
Already got the framework? The feedback survey takes about five minutes. What you tell me shapes what happens next: fixes to this version, and the fuller revision now under way.
Problems downloading, questions about using the framework, or ideas for what's missing? Email steve@steverosetherapy.com.
Last update: August 2026.