Blind Childrens Center

4120 Marathon Street, Los Angeles, California 90029 (323)664-2153

A family-centered agency serving children with visual impairments

IN THIS ISSUE

• A New Program
• Antarctica Marathon Fundraiser
• Helping people at all times
• And more...
• Wish List

The Infant Program A family-focused philosophy

The Blind Childrens Center has been a family-focused program since 1938. The Infant Program has implemented this family-focused philosophy in more depth this year and will continue to do so.

The goal is to incorporate the parents into the curriculum on a regular basis. We strive to strengthen their parenting skills and encourage parent participation by working one-on-one. As a team, we facilitate the child’s development by integrating instruction from professionals such as Occupational Therapist (small motor coordination), Orientation & Mobility Specialist (moving in space), Speech & Language Therapist, and the Teacher of the Visually Impaired (pre-Braille and Braille literacy). These highly trained specialists actively work with both the parents and the child in the classroom. It is important to teach, advise and guide the parents so the intervention techniques can be provided both at home and at school. The parents have been very receptive and motivated; this is reflected by their attendance and the obvious progress of the children.

Extension of the Home-visiting Program has also been beneficial. This enables us to have a better understanding of the family environment and to serve families who are unable to attend our Center program.

While it is important to have the parents participating in the classroom we are flexible. They may also attend a variety of parent groups, the self-enhancement program, or the Braille classes offered at Blind Childrens Center.

A new baby has joined the Center’s Infant Program this year. His name is Vincent and he is the youngest of his classmates. Vincent is 11 months old and has been diagnosed with Optic Nerve Hypoplasia which is the underdevelopment of the optic nerve.

Vincent is becoming very strong and alert and is always willing to participate and experience new adventures. He is well supported in the classroom by his parents as they work enthusiastically with him. They play, learn, grow, and explore together.

Vincent loves to smile and to be hugged which is tremendously positive for his development because love is an important component in fostering growth.

A Unique Way of Learning

Our most recent publication, A Unique Way of Learning, discusses Optic Nerve Hypoplasia.

From the introduction
The booklet you are holding in your hands was inspired by our need as educators and therapists of preschool students who are blind and visually impaired to share our observations of children with Optic Nerve Hypoplasia (ONH) and the therapies we have found to be helpful when working with these children.

Do You Know?

Do you know a family with a preschool-aged child who could benefit from our services?

Please contact:
Dr. Fernanda Armenta-Schmitt
Director of Education & Family Services
(323) 664-2153 EXT. 310

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