Visually impaired young people face unique challenges, and it’s up to parents and educators to help them navigate those challenges. Independence is crucial for their emotional, social, and physical development. It helps them build self-confidence, self-esteem, and a sense of autonomy.

What is vision impairment?

Vision impairment is a broad term used to describe any difficulty that affects a person’s ability to see. It can range from mild to severe and includes conditions such as low vision, field of vision loss (e.g., tunnel vision), complete blindness, and colour blindness.

How is visual impairment diagnosed?

Vision impairment is usually diagnosed early in life, often through routine vision screenings at an eye doctor’s office. However, visual impairments can sometimes go unnoticed or undiagnosed until a child is older. Signs of visual impairment include difficulty focusing on objects, poor hand-eye coordination, and squinting to see up close.

Tests for visual impairment can include:

• Visual acuity test – measures the clarity of vision by assessing how well a child can distinguish letters and numbers on a chart.
• Visual field test Refraction test – measures the amount of light that is focused onto the eye.
• Tonometry test – Used to test for glaucoma, by measuring the amount of fluid pressure inside the eye

The importance of building independence in visually impaired children

Once a child has been diagnosed with a visual impairment, parents and educators need to work together to promote independence.

Without independence, children with vision impairments are more likely to rely on others to complete tasks they could do on their own. They may become dependent and lose the ability to make decisions and solve problems. This can lead to further emotional and social issues, such as low self-esteem and difficulty forming relationships. Learn more about how we can help.

Teaching life skills to visually impaired children

At InFocus, our goal is to empower visually impaired young people by teaching them life skills that will help them lead independent lives. We offer a range of services designed to build independence, such as

• Learning how to use assistive technology and adaptive technologies
• Developing academic skills, such as reading and writing in Braille
• Developing social skills, such as problem-solving and communication
• Learning how to navigate their environment and cross roads
• Taking part in activities of daily living such as cooking, cleaning, dressing, and personal hygiene.

We also offer guidance and support for parents of children with vision impairments. We understand the unique challenges parents face when raising a child with vision impairment. Helping them find resources and services that can make the journey easier.

Building confidence and self-esteem

We believe that all children – regardless of their visual impairment – should have the opportunity to reach their full potential.

Our team of experienced professionals offer emotional support and guidance for developing social skills, communication strategies, and personal relationships. We also provide access to social activities, such as sports and leisure activities, which can help build confidence and self-esteem.

Promoting physical activity and mobility skills

Physical activity and mobility skills are important for all children, but for those with visual impairments, they can be especially beneficial. InFocus is committed to helping students build their physical strength and coordination, as well as develop the confidence to move independently.

Through mobility training, young people can learn how to use assistive devices, navigate through unfamiliar environments, and cross streets safely. We also offer physical therapy sessions to help improve strength, balance, and coordination.

Assisting with education and career goals

At InFocus, we understand the importance of education and career goals for visually impaired people. We provide a range of services to help young people reach their educational and professional aspirations.

Students have access to work-related learning, which also includes work experience and employability training. This aims to equip them with the skills and knowledge needed for gaining employment.

Our experienced team of professionals are available to help visually impaired children and young people reach their full potential. We also provide support for those with additional disabilities, such as cerebral palsy or autism. To learn more about how we can help, contact us today.