One of my favorite things about our FamilyConnect community is the opportunity to brainstorm together. While we may not have the chance to get together with a group of local friends who are parents of similar age children with visual impairments, we have the ability to do so right here. While sometimes we convene over IEPs, potty training frustrations and college-readiness skills, today we get to focus on a less stressful, way more fun topic: What would be a really cool Christmas, Hanukkah, or Kwanzaa present?
I have a few resources to share, as FamilyConnect has a gift guide and has had parent contributors tackling the topic in the past, and I hope you find these useful. However, I also truly hope you share your suggestions, including what went over well in the past and ideas you have for this year.
Gift-Giving Resources
- Toy and Gift Ideas for Parents of Children Who Are Blind or Visually Impaired—FamilyConnect’s list of favorite accessible toys
- Choosing the Best Toys for Your Blind Baby—A general guide to helping family members choose appropriate toys for children with visual impairments
- Twenty-Five Braille Toys for Kids Who Are Blind—Wonderbaby’s guide to braille toys
- Good Toys for Blind Kids—The National Federation of the Blind’s parent suggested, accessible toys
- AccessWorld Holiday Gift Guide for Individuals Who Are Blind or Visually Impaired—A list with suggestions most appropriate for older children and teens
Lastly, and I can’t help but think this is my personal favorite suggestion, Experience Gift Ideas for Children Who Are Blind or Visually Impaired. I think the best investment money can buy is quality time as a family, the forging of a hobby through music or activity lessons, and the opportunity to learn and experience new things together as a family.
Now it’s your turn—I truly look forward to hearing your gift suggestions, whether a specific gadget, an idea for an experience gift, or a totally out-of-the-box holiday gift suggestion.