The development of children with visual impairments is a particularly topical issue for parents, for whom it is important to help the child integrate into society, and at the same time protect the child from possible dangers and traumatic situations. Violations of visual functions can develop both during pregnancy and manifest themselves during the life of the baby, under the influence of various negative factors.

Visual impairment in children: the main stages

There are 3 severity of visual impairment in children:

• The first stage.

Minor deviations that can be adjusted as the child grows up. Early treatment will restore the baby’s vision in a fairly short period of time.

• Second stage

Characterized by more severe visual impairment. Such children need the constant support of loved ones. Parents should establish a relationship of trust with the baby, as well as take care of choosing the right pre-school institution. Since the program in ordinary kindergartens is designed for average children, a child with a visual impairment of the second type can significantly lag behind their peers. It is best to choose a specialized kindergarten: in such an institution, the program of classes is fully adapted to the development of visually impaired children. Being engaged with peers who have similar visual impairment, the child will not feel inferior.     

• The third stage.

This category of visual impairment includes children with a very low rate of vision (or its complete absence). In this case, parents need to pick up for the child a specially adapted institution, where there are special toys and teaching materials.

Features of the development of children with visual impairment require continuous and positive contact of parents with the child. The main task of mothers and fathers is to create for the kid a comfortable emotional environment in which he will feel full and happy. It is important for parents to learn how to patiently and promptly answer the child’s questions. Children with poor eyesight feel the emotional background most subtly and are particularly vulnerable.

The development of children aged 3 to 7 years implies the beginning of life in society. At this time, the child is actively exploring the world, communicating with peers and adults. Improper behavior of adults in relation to the visually impaired child of this age group can cause him serious psychological damage. Even with extremely severe violations of the child’s visual functions, parents should understand that the proper development of children with visual impairments, first of all, depends on the situation in the house and only then on doctors, teachers and educators.