Melisa Matthews, Author at ConnectCenter

Wearable Technology That May Help Reduce Eye-Pressing

Posted on March 28, 2023 - 6:52 am by Melisa Matthews

Sleek rubber adjustable bracelet with silver plate.

Breaking a habit can be extremely challenging. One such habit common to children who are blind or low vision is eye pressing, poking, or rubbing. This is a habit that can damage the eye. HabitAware and APH have teamed up to create a device to help children with eye-poking and eye-pressing behavior. Traditionally, experts recommend […]

Spring Into Physical Fitness With Our Webinar Series

Posted on March 21, 2023 - 7:54 am by Melisa Matthews

Physical fitness and activities go hand in hand with self-advocacy skills and mental health. Summer is approaching, making it the perfect time to plan activities for your child with blindness or low vision. Whether you’re going to the pool, playing at the playground, or just spending time in your yard, don’t miss out on the […]

Early Intervention and the “Virtual Home Visit” Service Delivery Model

Posted on January 30, 2023 - 6:48 am by Melisa Matthews

Individual holds baby on lap and looks at a tablet. Graphic reads “APH Hive. Exploring Virtual Home Visits in Early Intervention Services. DeEtte Snyder, Cathy Smyth, Nana Phangia Dewald”

Your young child who is blind or low vision likely has various early intervention services supporting their needs. As service-providing agencies find fewer providers, especially in rural areas, many offer virtual services. Some agencies offer a hybrid of in-person and virtual services, which has its own set of benefits and barriers. Would you like to […]

ParentConnect: Connecting Matters

Posted on January 23, 2023 - 1:48 pm by Melisa Matthews

Graphic of Individual pointing to a network of people

When facing challenges, stressful life changes, and feelings of isolation, ParentConnect can be a space to support you. Support groups offer space to share concerns and successes while providing the opportunity to learn, grow, and connect with others going through similar situations. Becoming a parent has challenges that other parents can relate to, but what […]

Share Your Insights and Concerns with the Office of Special Education Programs. We’re Listening!

Posted on October 12, 2022 - 12:20 am by Melisa Matthews

Formal headshots of Rebecca Sheffield and Eric Caruso

By Rebecca Sheffield and Eric Caruso As project officers in the U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP), we work with grant-funded projects and centers across the United States to support the implementation of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. We both came to OSEP after working in the field of visual […]

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