Information for early years practitioners

Admitting a vision impaired child into your setting may need some extra thought and preparation, but does not necessarily mean a huge amount of extra or special work. Much good practice for vision impaired children is often good practice for all children.

This guide is produced by the Southend-on-Sea City Council Vision and Hearing Support Service.

• vision impaired children may be unaware of all the activities available in the setting. You may need to physically guide them around the choices so they become familiar with what is available
• show children if the setting furniture layout is changed. Doors and windows should be fully open or completely closed. Half opened windows and doors can cause accidents
• at story time children may need to sit at the front of the group. They may need to look at the book individually. Point to features in pictures so the child looks at the right thing. Make sure pictures look real and are large and clear enough to see
• pictures etc. should be covered or laminated with matt Perspex
• avoid using tracing paper
• black felt tip pen is best for writing and mark-making
• lighting should be helpful, but not dazzling
• get the child's full attention before giving instructions. If you are speaking specifically to them, say their name first
• vision impaired children are often unaware of body language and gestures. They may need specific instructions
• you may need to individually demonstrate skills. Hand over hand may be needed
• if the child wears glasses, make sure they have them on and that they are clean. Pay attention to this after lunch!
• it is really important that vision impaired children handle and play with real objects. Plastic things do not give the same sensory information. If plastic things are used, such as plastic fruit in the role play shop, explain that they are toys to pretend with, and not real

For further information please contact the Vision and Hearing Support Service.