by Penny Reeder
What should your child be learning in school? When should he or she start learning to read braille? How should he or she be finding his/her way around the school building and grounds? What kinds of processes should his/her teacher be using to teach art, music, PE? What materials are appropriate for your non-visual learner? Find out what you need to know about educating children who cannot see or cannot see well.
The National Association of State Directors of Special Education (NASDSE) and the Hilton/Perkins Program of the Perkins School for the Blind recently began distributing their educational service guidelines for students who are blind or visually impaired. This document can provide guidance to state and local education agencies, service providers and parents. It describes essential program elements which must be considered in designing appropriate services for blind and visually impaired students, including those with multiple disabilities.
This document, which was developed in a collaborative process by thirteen national organizations, is organized into five chapters, a glossary, and appendices. It has been distributed to state directors of special education, organizations, and parent and consumer groups. If you would like a copy, contact the Hilton/Perkins Foundation, Perkins School for the Blind, 175 N. Beacon St., Watertown, MA 02472, or phone (617) 924-3434.