Editorâs note: Meredith Howell reflects on learning that her daughter, Lola, has low vision and multiple disabilities. She looks back at the value of early intervention services and shares that she is now the regional director of Visually Impaired Preschool Services (VIPS) Indiana. Early Intervention with Lola: A Motherâs Perspective When I was told my … Continued
When Brian and Danielle Ford learned their son, Benjamin, had albinism, they didnât quite know where to begin. Brian shared his experience with APH FamilyConnect, writing about the diagnosis and the pursuit of getting Benjamin all the resources he needed. One of those resources was Melisa Matthews, a teacher of the visually impaired (TVI) who … Continued
Editorâs note: Santa gives permission to children who are blind or low vision to touch their “Elf on the Shelf.” We hope you utilize this updated post from parent Holly Bonner of of Blind Motherhood to make the holidays meaningful and accessible for your child! If You Are Blind or Low Vision, You Can Touch The Elf … Continued
My name is Dovile, and I am a mother of two incredible boys, Jacob (6) and Dominic (1). Jacob is our music lover; he fills our house with music and canât imagine his day without the keyboard. Dominic is our explorer; he loves toys, books, and all sensory play! They both were born with LCA … Continued
Editorâs note: As you begin your holiday shopping, consider supporting individuals who are blind or low vision. Check out our list of books authored and small businesses owned by individuals who are blind/low vision. Holiday Gifts: Supporting Authors and Business-Owners Who Are Blind or Low Vision Itâs beginning to feel a lot like the holiday … Continued
I recently met with a first-grade student for our second orientation and mobility (O&M) lesson. He had been issued a cane and tip by a previous certified orientation and mobility specialist (COMS). At about 20 minutes into our 60-minute lesson, he began to complain of being tired. This puzzled me because I have been his … Continued
Editorâs note: When Aimie Strachan was told her daughter needed to wear an eye patch for thirty minutes per day, she began searching for a book to explain the process to her daughter. When she couldnât find a book, she decided to write it herself. Aime Strachan shares her story. Author of âMatildaâs Eye Patchâ … Continued
Share Your Insights and Concerns with the Office of Special Education Programs. Weâre Listening! By Rebecca Sheffield and Eric Caruso As project officers in the U.S. Department of Educationâs Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP), we work with grant-funded projects and centers across the United States to support the implementation of the Individuals with Disabilities … Continued
Editorâs note:TeenTober⢠is a new, nationwide celebration hosted by libraries every October and aims to celebrate teens, promote year-round teen services and the innovative ways teen services helps teens learn new skills, and fuel their passions in and outside the library. Today we look at inspiring your teen who is blind or low vision to … Continued
Editorâs note: October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM). To help your young person who is blind or low vision prepare for a satisfying adult life and meaningful employment, you can work with them on the skills of The Expanded Core Curriculum for Students Who Are Blind or Visually Impaired which include self-determination skills. … Continued