There are many ways parents and carers can encourage their child to be more independent. Find out how to help your child learn some of the skills that others do by imitation, and which professionals are there to support you:
Information for parents of children with vision impairment
Practical advice, ideas and contacts for parents and carers of children with vision impairment, based on what families have told us they needed to know.
On this page
Your guide to vision impairment
Your child and vision impairment – taking those first steps
There's no "normal" response to finding out your child has a sight condition. We know it’s a worrying time and people respond in different ways. If you’re just starting out on this journey, use our important contacts and information to guide and support you: Take your first steps
Information for parents and carers guides
When you’re ready to start looking for more in-depth information and advice, try our downloadable ‘Information for parents/carers’ booklets. Ideal for parents and carers who prefer offline or hard copy material:
Bookmark this page so you can come back to these resources as your child grows.
Organisations supporting you
RNIB services for children, young people and families
From practical information and support to opportunities to connect, RNIB helps you and your family every step of the way.
Starting Point
Starting Point is a leaflet for parents and carers of children who are newly diagnosed with vision impairment. It’s been produced by a collaboration of support charities and introduces Sight Advice FAQ which you can use to ask questions about your child’s diagnosis and the support and services available to you. Starting Point is often given to families in eye clinics.
If you’re a professional who would like to give the Starting Point leaflet to families you support, please contact Guide Dogs at [email protected] to order copies.
Child development, Education and Social Care
Children with vision impairment, including those with complex needs, are entitled to support for their learning from birth onwards.
Find out more about education support
The Curriculum Framework for children and young people with Vision Impairment (CFVI) clarifies and defines the specialist skill development, interventions and best practice that are essential for children and young people with vision impairment:
Curriculum Framework for Children and Young People with Vision Impairment (CFVI) | RNIB
RNIB Bookshare is a free online resource base of curriculum materials available to schools, colleges, and universities across the UK:
Find out about benefits, concessions and grants for children with vision impairment and providing evidence of your child’s needs:
Young people can use our advice and guidance as they make the transition from school into further or higher education, employment and adult support services.
Further support
RNIB provides free, specialist advice and support for children and young people with vision impairment – from birth to age 25 – and their families.
If you can’t find what you’re looking for, or you’d like more information about anything mentioned on this page, we can help.
We offer:
- family, early years and transitions support
- support for education professionals
- advice about accessible books, toys and learning materials
- opportunities to meet and talk with other families.
Contact RNIB Helpline on 0303 123 9999 or [email protected].
