Development of Young Adults with Blindness or Low Vision

This content is also available in: Español (Spanish)

It can be challenging to parent as your child transitions into their adult years. It takes patience and understanding to support your child’s new challenges as they are learning who they are and who they want to become. Your support in this time is critical and as they begin to take the lead, make decisions for their future while navigating many new endeavors.

Here you will find resources that address the complex emotional and social challenges teenagers face, especially those who are blind or have low vision. It covers areas like emotional support, adapting to blindness, the social implications of not driving, academic independence, and navigating social media safely. The section also discusses the importance of role models and mentors, managing friendships, and dealing with aspects of dating and flirting. For detailed information, explore the full articles below.

Learning How to Emotionally Support Your Teen

Teenagers experience intense feelings and may struggle with self-esteem and identity issues. While adolescence can be a challenging time, it is also a period of tremendous growth and self-discovery. Finding ways to connect with your child and support their emotional development can help them understand and work through intense emotions.

A teenager wearing glasses standing in the hallway with a group of students in the background.

Your Teenager’s Feelings About Being Blind or Low Vision

This content is also available in: Español (Spanish)Like you, your teenager is going to have a range of feelings about their eye condition. The teenage years in general are an emotional time for many young people as they move from adolescence to adulthood. Most want to fit in with their peers and being “different” because […]

A student sitting at a desk working on a computer in the background.

If Your Teenager Has Recently Experienced Blindness or Low Vision

This content is also available in: Español (Spanish)Every day of parenting has its highs and lows. That’s no different when your child has a blindness or low vision. However, if your child has recently been diagnosed as blind or low vision, you, your child, and your other family members may find yourselves struggling with a […]

Cones for the examination, driving school concept with a silver car next to the cone

When Other Teens Are Learning to Drive and Your Child Isn’t

This content is also available in: Español (Spanish)Getting a driver’s license is a rite of passage for most teenagers, and when an eye condition prevents someone from driving, the feeling of disappointment can be intense. If your teen is blind or low vision and can’t meet the legal requirements for driving in your state, they […]

Accessing Academic Classes for Teenagers

This content is also available in: Español (Spanish)Your child who is blind or low vision needs to develop increasing independence in all aspects of life. This includes independence in completing schoolwork. Having appropriate materials and tools needed to carry out assignments on their own is essential to becoming a self-sufficient individual as well as for […]

Supporting New Social Endeavors

Teenagers become more independent and begin forming their identities while navigating complex social dynamics with peers and adults. Social circles begin to form, as well as considerations for new feelings and flirting.

close-up of a finger pointing to an internet icon on a phone

Social Media and Online Safety for Teens

This content is also available in: Español (Spanish)In today’s digital era, social media has become an integral part of our lives, enabling us to connect, engage, and express ourselves like never before. However, as we revel in the benefits of this technological marvel, we should also pause to consider the safety challenges it presents, particularly […]

A teenager standing at a podium giving a speech with a teacher behind standing proudly.

Role Models and Mentors for Teens Who are Blind or Low Vision

This content is also available in: Español (Spanish) You might be very close with your child, but sometimes they need someone else to talk to or learn from. An older teen or adult who is blind or has low vision can be a great role model or mentor for them. And one day, your child […]

Friendship in the Teen Years for Individuals Who Are Blind or Low Vision

This content is also available in: Español (Spanish)Watch teens at a high school or a mall, and you’ll see them enjoying time with friends. Friends are really important, especially for teenagers. For them, fitting in and being part of a group is a big deal. When teens move to different high schools, they often leave […]

Transitioning Students from High School to Adulthood Takes Training and Teamwork

This content is also available in: Español (Spanish)For people who are blind or low vision, nearly anything is possible – provided no one tells them it isn’t. One high school student had always dreamed of being a ballerina. But because she had cerebral palsy, being a dancer wasn’t truly realistic, but no one ever told […]

A teen girl and teen boy looking at each other talking.

Flirting and Dating for Teenagers with Blindness or Low Vision

This content is also available in: Español (Spanish)Almost anyone can recognize flirting and guess that a couple is dating simply by watching their behavior. Sighted children have many opportunities to observe how older teenagers and grownups flirt; they see people holding hands, smiling at each other, kissing, and hugging—at the mall, waiting in line for […]