jump to article
TYPE SIZE  Smaller Type Larger Type CHANGE COLORS SUPPORT US en español  
Connect with other parents like you. Sign up now Login
  • Home
  • > After the Diagnosis

After the Diagnosis


Leer esta sección en español

Whether your child is a newborn, a grade schooler, or a teenager, learning that she has a visual impairment can be a shocking event that affects you and your entire family. If you're feeling a wide range of strong emotions, and confusion as well, you're not alone. Most parents of children who are visually impaired can recall the day they were given the diagnosis of their child's eye condition, who told them, and how the news was delivered. For many, the memory may be upsetting because they weren't prepared for the news, it wasn't delivered gently, or they weren't given information about where to turn for help. But there are many sources of support and services for the families of children who are visually impaired, including other parents, and you can connect with them here.

Get more information by topic:
 Browse information on other age ranges:
 Or browse information on featured topics:
 		father kissing daughter's head
Emotional Impact
If you've just learned that your child is visually impaired, this is probably a difficult time for you and your family. You may be unsure how to tell family members and friends about your child's visual impairment and where to go for support.
Hot Topics
Adapting Your Home
Many families of visually impaired children are concerned about the ability of their child to get around their home safely. There are many relatively simple things that can be done to help your child move safely through your home using her vision, if present, and other senses.
Working with Medical Professionals
Many parents want to learn as much as they can about their child's diagnosis and what the future will look like for their child. Developing an understanding of the different eye care professionals your child may be seen by, questions you can ask, and what you can expect at an appointment will empower you and your child to more clearly understand his visual impairment.
Overview of Services
When your child is born with a visual impairment, or acquires one through illness or injury, you may feel shocked, bewildered, and frightened. You may also find that your immediate family members, local doctors, and neighborhood schools are unfamiliar with the impact of visual impairment on a child's learning and education. But you're not alone.
Parent Perspectives
Here you'll find some articles about the first overwhelming months, and tips for coping with stress.
Success Stories
Can you imagine your children being able to do any job they want? Explore careers with them through AFB CareerConnect®'s Mentor Success Stories. These intriguing accounts can start your child on a journey you never thought possible. And then check out all of the other resources AFB CareerConnect has to offer.