A block retaining slate for engaging blocks, such as tactile recognition (e.g. Braille) blocks, so that the blocks can be arranged and aligned in a pattern. The block retaining slate includes a base portion and block engaging members extending from the base portion. The block engaging members include a rounded block receiving region, for receiving and engaging with an engaging region, such as a cavity, in the block. The block engaging members are arranged in a predefined pattern forming groups of block engaging members including rows and columns of block engaging members so that the blocks are aligned in rows and columns on the block retaining slate on a group of block engaging members. The block retaining slate further includes spaced regions and/or ridge portions between the rows and columns of block engaging members to facilitate the alignment of the blocks on the block retaining slate.