Daily living skills
A habilitation specialist (trained by Guide Dogs or your sensory team) teaches:
- Personal care and hygiene
- Cooking and kitchen safety
- Using money and shopping
- Travelling independently
- Using technology
Start early. Even a toddler can learn to find their coat peg by touch.
Technology that opens doors
- Smartphones and tablets – with VoiceOver (Apple) or TalkBack (Android)
- Screen readers – JAWS, NVDA, or built-in options
- Braille notetakers – portable devices for school and home
- Audio description – on TV, at cinemas, and for theatre
Social skills and confidence
Children with visual impairment may need help with:
- Body language – explaining that they cannot see facial expressions
- Social cues – teaching what others are doing in a group
- Sports and hobbies – goalball, blind football, horse riding, swimming, music
- Making friends – arranged playdates with clear communication
Transition to adulthood
From age 14, the must include preparation for adulthood outcomes:
- Independent living skills
- Further education or employment
- Community participation
- Health
Ask your QTVI and habilitation specialist to write specific goals into the .