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VIDBE - Q Volume 63 Issue 1
to ensure they are recommending and implementing evidence - based practices. This is
accomplished by consulting the relevant recent published lite rature (i.e., Have there been
empirical studies investigating the effects of an intervention?) and ongoing professional
development.
Message to Families of Children with Visual Impairments
Families also need to realize that their child may be the only stud ent with a VI/Deaf -
Blind duality that their child's teacher has ever served and help educate them about their
child's needs. To do this effectively, it is crucial that families can communicate information
about their child's visual condition and learn to 'speak the language' of special education.
Families must also not be afraid to question school personnel. However, please note that
all communications with school personnel need to be respectful and courteous. Lastly,
families can have the greatest impa ct on instilling confidence in their student and helping
him/her learn how to advocate for themselves. Table 1 provides tips, organized by areas
of need, for TVIs working with families and school professionals and the corresponding
tips for families.
Tab le 1.
Tips for TVIs and Families of Children with Visual Impairments
Area of Need Tips for TVIs Tips for Families
Knowledge of
the Special
Education
Process
Offer parent training
sessions regarding the
special education process;
provide instruction on key
terminology and acronyms
so families can 'speak the
language' pf special
education .
Refer to reliable websites for information
about your rights/your student's rights
under the law:
http://idea.ed.gov/
www.wrightslaw.com
Refer to your state's school for the blind
and visually impaired website:
http://www.tsbvi.edu/instruc tional -
resources/2785 - schools - for - the - blind - in -
the - united - states
