an online magazine from eyeway.org

issue 9 march-april 2006
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sections in this issue: by george | focus | feature | perspectives | profile | headlines | health scan

Dealing with your child's visual disability

As a parent of a visually impaired or blind child, you have experienced emotionally difficult times. You must remember, however, that your child will draw support from you, will look towards you for guidance, encouragement and care. Bear in mind that:

• You are not alone. There are other parents whose child may have a similar disability. Talk to them if possible. Learn how they coped. Learn what your choices are.
• The feelings you have are a normal part of the human experience. You will survive, and life will continue. Parents and families react in many different ways when they discover their baby has a disability. Some might go into shock, some might experience denial; some try to find out all the information they can. All these reactions are normal.
• Although there are no easy answers, you will find ways to cope. You are likely to discover inner resources that you never knew existed.
• It is human to mourn, but you must heal yourself. Look at the positive side, and dream new dreams.
• Understand what goals you have for your child, and concentrate on the choices that will help you meet your goals.
• Understand what you will need to do when you make your choice.

  (Compiled from: Sachu’s Column. Netranjali, Vol. 1, No. 1, July-September 2004; and www.ridbc.org.au )

Related stories:
Parenting with vision
Two things to remember

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