EARLY INTERVENTION

VISION HELPS US MAKE SENSE OF THE WORLD AROUND US

It is a well known fact that up to 90% of what a child learns in the first three years of life is through visual observation. This means that infants from birth to 3 years of age with vision impairments, and possible multiple disabilities, need the unique expertise of certified teachers of blind and partially sighted children with additional special skills in the area of early intervention.

OUR MULTI-CULTURAL TEAM of special educators teach infants and toddlers in their own homes how to compensate for any reduced, or in some instances, total lack of vision. They also help prepare each child for a successful transition to a wide range of pre-school options.

THE PROCESS

First, a comprehensive functional vision and developmental assessment helps define the child’s unique needs. Second, an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) is developed that addresses the specific needs of both child and family.

FAMILY MEMBERS play the lead role in directing their child’s education—with guidance, resource information, educational expertise, and support provided by our teachers, and, when necessary, the school’s social workers, and physical, occupational and speech therapists. Together, parents and the St. Joseph’s team implement the child’s individual plan. Parents also have opportunities to meet and discuss experiences with other parents.

THROUGH PLAY, CHILDREN LEARN:

• Effective communication
• Awareness of body image and movement
• Use of all senses—including any remaining vision
• Concept development
• Gross and fine motor skills
• Orientation and mobility

SIGHTED CHILDREN LEARN THESE SKILLS ‘NATURALLY’by visually observing and mimicking the behavior of others. Infants and toddlers with vision impairments and other multiple disabilities need the expertise of special educators to make sure they do not fall behind their sighted peers. That is why it is so very important to start early intervention services as young as possible—ideally soon after birth.

At St. Joseph’s, families realize that they are never alone in helping their children to

“LEARN TO BE ALL THEY CAN BE!”