Ode to a Master: Reflections on My TVI

Editor’s note: Teacher Appreciation Week is May 8-12, 2023. In recognition, Alexis Read shares about her beloved teacher of students with visual impairments (TVI). When my family moved to North Dakota in the summer of 1982, I met an educator who profoundly impacted my life and career choices. Phyllis, a young and energetic teacher of … Continued

Teaching Children Independence and Advocacy Skills from an Early Age

When a parent learns their child is blind or has low vision as early as birth, it can take time to accept. But it’s essential that children start learning key skills as early as possible. Giving children the tools they need to lead independent, fulfilling lives will give both children and their parents optimism about … Continued

2022 in our Rearview: APH ConnectCenter’s Year in Review

We’re taking a trip down memory lane—with 2022 in our rearview! We at the APH ConnectCenter invite you to look back with us at the top content of the year—personal favorites from the content managers and each website’s most viewed content. And that’s not all! APH Huntington shares its most memorable event of the year … Continued

Early Intervention with Lola: A Mother’s Perspective

Editor’s 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 Mother’s Perspective When I was told my … Continued

Sensory Play: Mom Shares Ideas for Babies and Children

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 can’t 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

TeenTober: Cultivating a Fondness for Reading

Editor’s 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

First Day Jitters: Four Stories of Transition (Elementary, Middle, High, College)

It can certainly feel daunting when your child or teen who is blind or low vision is transitioning to their next season of education (elementary, middle, high school, or college)! Much like the popular children’s book series First Day Jitters, you and your maturing child may have jitters—and more than a few! You may both … Continued

Transitions: APH Huntington: A Program to Enhance Resources and Outcomes for a Rural Area

Editor’s note: APH Huntington recognizes the barriers to accessing services for those who are blind or low vision living in rural communities. Lee Huffman, APH Huntington’s Senior Strategist of Accessible Technology and Community Outreach, shares that one of APH Huntington’s aims is to provide hands-on training, discussions, and services throughout the rural community of Huntington, … Continued

Transitions: High School Clubs Can Improve Your School Experience: A Teen Reflects

Editor’s note: High school student, Gabby Abeyta, reflects on her school experience improving after beginning to participate in academic and extracurricular activities and clubs. Gabby also shares tips and accommodations for participating in clubs as an individual who is blind or low vision.   _________________________   High School Clubs Can Improve Your School Experience: A Teen Reflects  … Continued

Social Skill Savvy for the First Day of School – with Bonus “About Me” Template! 

If you’re like me (a bit of a nerd at heart), you may remember your childhood school “first days” as fun and exciting, with possibly a few nervous butterflies in the mix. I loved the satisfaction of putting a crisp, clean stack of paper into my brightly colored Trapper-Keeper (did you know they’re back in … Continued