Author Archives: Melisa Matthews

From Nondriver to Active Traveler

Posted on May 15, 2023 - 12:40 pm by
city bus

Teens who are blind or have low vision (and their parents) must make many transportation decisions. Will your child drive if they meet your state’s requirements? If not, how will they get around? Will they utilize a city bus or a hired driver? Driving represents a new level of independence and responsibility, and nondriving teens […]

National Center on Deaf-Blindness: Family Leadership, Engagement, and Empowerment

Posted on May 9, 2023 - 4:02 am by
Child with hearing aids playfully gives eyeglasses to an adult

Families are the experts in knowing their child, which should positively impact the decisions made for a child who is deafblind. Children who are deafblind have specific needs and considerations that are “compoundingly complex.” Families with a child who is deafblind will go through many stages of emotions and have different needs as they support […]

Holiday Etiquette Tips for Children with Blindness 

Grandparents are presenting gifts to a mother, father and their two children at the door to their home.

I’m heading to my friend’s house tonight for dinner and a movie. I almost hear my mom’s voice: “Don’t go empty-handed.” Mom will be pleased because I’ll be bringing sugar cookies and frosting, a simple holiday treat, for my host.  Many are preparing to host or visit friends and family as the holiday season approaches. […]

Fall Family Fun to Plan with Your Visually Impaired Child

A woman is holding her daughter in the back of a wagon pulled by a man driving a tractor on a country road.

As fall arrives, it brings many wonderful experiences for children who are blind or have low vision. The season offers perfect opportunities to explore the world through touch, taste, and smell. Whether it’s enjoying the sweetness of a freshly picked apple, walking through the woods and feeling the crunch of leaves underfoot, or exploring the […]

Meet the APH FamilyConnect Parent Advisory Board Members! 

Posted on April 19, 2023 - 2:48 pm by
Several members of the APH FamilyConnect Parent Advisory Board

Our mission as the APH FamilyConnect Parent Advisory Board is to make a difference by empowering families with love, compassion, wisdom, and authenticity. – APH ConnectCenter FamilyConnect Parent Advisory Board  In October, APH FamilyConnect established the first-ever Parent Advisory Board. This group represents nine different states, various diagnoses, ages of children, many life experiences, and […]

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