Active Learning for Children with Visual Impairments

Active Learning is an approach based on the work of Dr. Lilli Nielson, a developmental psychologist and preschool teacher. This approach is not merely about the equipment or activity. Rather, it refers to a total approach for promoting the development of individuals with severe multiple disabilities. The Active Learning Approach can be used with all learners. However, it is most effective for those who have significant multiple disabilities and are functioning in the 0-48 month developmental level.

Penrickton Center for Blind Children is a private, non-profit daycare and 5-day residential agency serving children who are visually impaired with additional disabilities. Established in 1952 by three families, Penrickton Center endeavors to teach children to become as independent as possible. Additionally, they support family units. Enriched environments provide the backdrop to learning, growing, and developing. There is no charge to families for their services.

Meet Penrickton Center for Blind Children

Active Learning Space Supports Families at Home

Families often find themselves overwhelmed, unsure of where to start and what they can do at home. The family section of Active Learning Space provides a variety of activities that can be done at home. You will notice that many activities truly are ones you can do with your child using common household items. Implementing active learning approaches will benefit your child at home and in the community.

Every space in your home provides a learning opportunity for your child. Active Learning Space provides information to help you learn new ideas and view your home as a space for your child to actively learn and engage with.

Penrickton offers practical ideas to support your child’s learning. They also provide many videos and webinars to further support your learning and understanding. These would also be helpful for other family members as they learn how to better support your child.

Active Learning Environment at School

Sharing Active Learning with teachers and your child’s team supports their needs at school as well. Penrickton Center for Blind Children offers many ways for professionals to learn and better understand the active learning approach with students. Using Active Leaning increases awareness of a child’s ability and is a way to engage students at school.

For more information or to visit, Penrickton Center for Blind Children, call (734) 946-7500.

Discover more information about Active Learning and many ideas for supporting your child in learning and becoming as independent as possible.

Child on a support bench kicking chimes with their feet.

Blind or Low Vision Children: Learning Through Senses

Let’s explore Active Learning and how Penrickton Center for Blind Children uses this method. The method supports children who are blind or have low vision with additional disabilities. Next, we will dive into understanding the pathways in which your child learns. How Do Children Learn Through All of Their Senses? A child who is visually […]

A child sitting in the back seat with various activities attached to the back of the passenger seat and the handle above the window.

Engaging Travel Activities for Your Child with Blindness (Video)

You travel with your child for appointments, visiting friends and family, and visiting new places. Traveling with your child may require more preparation to ensure they are engaged. Now that you have read about Active Learning, consider taking Active Learning on the road. How Can You Use The Active Learning Approach When Traveling? Active learning […]

A child playing with a steel drum and various objects.

Dynamic Learning Circle for Children Who Are Blind

Penrickton Center for Blind Children is recognized internationally as the leader in Active Learning programming. Active Learning features an assessment, curriculum, specifically designed equipment, and instructional strategies that support learners to be active participants in their surroundings. The Dynamic Learning Circle is a component that helps determine if a child is ready for something new […]