[blindkid] kindergarten assistive technology

[Roxanne Hug]

Hello to everyone.
I have really found the kindergarten transition posts to be so helpful as we will be transitioning my daughter, Mara from preschool to kindergarten in the fall.  Thank you so much to all who have contributed to those posts!  Your advice/comments have been so greatly appreciated!
 
My question... what type of assistive technology/equipment would be useful for a child going into kindergarten?  I know all kids are different, but I'm just looking for some general ideas.  We have some money to spend for this purpose that has to be turned in (with justification) by next week and her teachers and I are having a difficult time deciding what would be most appropriate.  We have been pouring over all kinds of websites, etc. but are having trouble pinpointing age appropriate equipment that won't be obsolete by the time she is ready to really use it (hopefully that makes sense).  She is legally blind with lp in one eye and aprox. 20/400 in the good eye although doesn't see anything beyond maybe 5-10 feet.  She most likely will be a dual (large) print/braille reader.  She will be the first child with a visual impairment at this particular school, so we are all learning as we go.  I know there are a lot of products that are available that will read to her, but we feel it is important that she learn to read (both print and braille) before depending on such devices. 
 
It would be easier if we could go through a month or two of school before deciding what to get, but unfortunately, we don't have that option.  
 
Any comments/ideas are greatly appreciated!!!
Thanks.
Roxanne Hug
mom to Mara Jane