CRIS Radio Goes On-Demand for Kids

Windsor-based CRIS Radio is now the first program of its kind in the nation to provide on-demand audio versions of children's books for children with visual impairments, learning disabled or physically disabled.

The program will serve the approximate 72,000 children in the state of Connecticut who are eligible for the program.

With publications focusing on science, technology, the environment, math and entertainment, including popular magazines like Sports Illustrated For Kids, CRIS' on-demand system can be downloaded by consumers directly from CRIS' website to personal computers, mp3 players, smartphones and tablets.

The hope is that "the programming will help students achieve independence with homework, provide a teaching tool for parents and educators, and offer students timely access to current events," according to CRIS representatives.

CRIS is the only radio-reading service in Connecticut that provides content for the blind, learning disabled and physically challenged. The 32-year-old program relies on the work of volunteers to deliver information to its audience.