Federal funding for this website ended in 2003, therefore few materials have been added since that time. Fortunately, there is continued interest in culturally and appropriate materials, curriculum, and programs. Because of this, we have allowed this site to remain as an archive. Please feel free to use this site, but recognize that it is no longer current.
The
Hadley School for the Blind
Parent/Family Education
Program Information
Objectives
If you are the parent or grandparent of a child younger than 16 years of age who is blind or has severe visual impairments, Parent/Child Program courses may help you
- meet the challenge of raising an infant, toddler, or school-age child,
- provide the necessary support as you and your child adjust to blindness;
- develop advocacy skills;
- acquire information about services available through public and private organizations.
Course Offerings
Child Development I: Infancy. "She didn't come with directions!" Would you like to understand more about the unique little person in your life? This course shows you how and why children take each step in their development. This is an overview of normal developmental milestones. Course D-PC-051. Print. 6 lessons Credit: 3 CEUs.
Child Development II: Early Childhood. How do I deal with my child's handicap? What is orientation and mobility? How will I toilet train my blind child? This course explores these and other questions about the development of a blind or visually impaired child. Strategies for encouraging and reinforcing learning are included. Students in the U.S. and Canada may request additional lessons on videotape. Course D-PC-101. Print. 8 lessons Credit: 3 CEUs.
Partners in Education. If you are unsure of your rights and responsibilities in the educational process, this course will help! Topics include the unique educational needs of children with blindness or visual impairments, building partnerships with the school system, how to effectively advocate for your child, and how to positively impact your child's educational programming. Course D-PC-551. Audiocassette or large print. 7 lessons. Credit: 4 CEUs.
Learning, Play, and Toys. Children love to play! Even though your child will spend time learning special skills, it's important to remember that your child's playtime is also learning time. Make learning fun by providing an environment where playful learning will occur. Choose toys that motivate your child to explore, interact with others, and become more independent. Course D-PC-601. Audiocassette or large print. 7 lessons. Credit: 3 CEUs.
Reach Out and Teach. Many families like to begin their Parent/Child studies with this course. It focuses on blind, visually impaired, and multiply disabled infants and preschoolers. Step-by-step teaching techniques and guidelines help you assess and build on your child's strengths. Additional resources assist you along the way. Course D-PC-201. Print. 7 lessons. Credit: 3 CEUs,
Parent/Child students may also take courses in the Parent/Family Program.
Brochure
"One of the most difficult steps for us as parents of children with special needs is letting go of those 'overprotective' tendencies...I want you to know that your caring guidance has helped our family grow." |
All parents have questions about raising their children. Parents of a blind child may ask:
"We just found out our son is visually impaired. I feel totally overwhelmed. Where do I begin?"
"Are there specific toys you would recommend for my child?"
"Should I start learning braille now, even though my child is still just an infant?"
"Where will my child go to school?"
For answers to these and other question, parents and grandparents have enrolled in Hadley's Parent/Child Program.
Through our courses you will learn about the physical, emotional, and educational needs of blind infants and children. You will also learn how you can best support your child's development. You can study our materials in the convenience of your own home, completely free of charge — and know that a knowledgeable instructor is just a toll-free telephone call away.
"The insecurity we felt when we found out that our child was impaired visually — and had problems that we didn't know how to cope with — is not a big problem anymore. The biggest accomplishment for us is watching our child progress and how happy we feel being able to help her with confidence." |
Our program, the first of its kind in the United States, began in 1984 and has a current enrollment of 2,600 students. Our courses are developed with the help of a national panel of experts and are tested by parents of blind children. While studying with us, you will receive free course materials and study guides that include:
Guidance in dealing with community and national resources, such as schools, doctors, and agencies.
Encouragement and support throughout the many transitions in blind children's lives.
Opportunities for parents to call their instructors through our toll-free number, 1.800.323.4238.
Updated resources through our "In Touch" newsletter.
We believe that at every age and through every stage of life of a blind person, the support and participation of the family is important.
That's why we have recently created the Parent/Family Department, which includes the Parent/Child Program. This department addresses the special needs of parents and other family members of blind individuals of every age, from infants to school-aged children, from working adults to senior citizens. So, as your child grows, you can continue to turn to Hadley for support.
Call us at 1.800.323.4238 and ask for one of our Parent/Child instructors.
Parent/Child Program
"We can't say enough about the support, the feedback, and the courses you have sent us. The most important thing is that we now think of Matt first as a wonderful son with a delightful personality and last as a blind child." |
The Hadley School for the Blind, founded in 1920 and fully accredited, is the largest single worldwide educator of blind and visually impaired people. More than 80,000 course graduates have enriched their lives through Hadley courses. Over 90 courses are available free of charge to students in braille, large print, and on audiocassette.
The Hadley School for the Blind
700 Elm Street
Winnetka, Illinois 60093
phone: 1.800.323.4238
phone: 847.446.8111
fax: 847.446.0855
e-mail: families@hadley-school.org
website: http://www.hadley-school.org
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign