Vision Impairment
Visual impairments affect how a child sees and uses vision to learn about and interact with the world. Vision plays an important role in a child's development, including communication, movement, learning, and social interaction. Every child with a visual impairment is different and has their own strengths and needs.
Children with visual impairments may have delays in one or more areas of development. Some children may also need support with movement, communication, play, learning, and everyday activities.
Under the New York State Early Intervention Program, permanent visual impairment is a diagnosed condition with a high probability of resulting in developmental delay. Children with permanent visual impairment receive a multidisciplinary evaluation to learn about their strengths and needs. The information from the evaluation is used to develop an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP).
Early Intervention services are based on each child's individual strengths and needs. Services can help children develop communication, movement, learning, and participation in everyday routines and activities. They also help families support their child's development.
Learn More
For more information about visual impairments and the New York State Early Intervention Program, see:
Clinical Practice Guideline: Visual Impairment
Guidance for identifying, evaluating, and providing intervention for young children with visual impairment.
A quick guide to identifying, evaluating, and providing intervention for young children with visual impairment.
