Guides & Articles

Knowledge for every step of the journey

Free, in-depth guides on IEPs, education rights, assistive technology, and the resources that matter most — written for families navigating visual impairment.

Written by parents.

We are not doctors, therapists, or certified specialists — and we're not pretending to be. We are parents who have lived every step of this journey firsthand: the diagnoses, the IEP battles, the late-night research, the wins and the setbacks. Everything here comes from real experience, not a textbook. Always work with your child's medical and educational team for decisions specific to your family.

All Guides

17 guides — free for every family

IEPs & SchoolFree

Understanding IEPs: A Parent's Complete Guide

An Individualized Education Program (IEP) is a legally binding document that outlines the special education services your child will receive. Learn what's in it, how to read it, and how to advocate effectively.

8 min readRead guide
IEPs & SchoolFree

How to Prepare for an IEP Meeting: 10 Steps

Walking into an IEP meeting prepared makes all the difference. These 10 practical steps will help you advocate confidently for your child's education.

6 min readRead guide
EducationFree

The Expanded Core Curriculum: What Every VI Parent Should Know

The Expanded Core Curriculum (ECC) covers nine areas of learning unique to blind and visually impaired students — from braille literacy to social skills. Here's what it is and why it matters.

7 min readRead guide
EducationFree

Orientation & Mobility: Building Your Child's Independence

Orientation and Mobility training teaches blind and visually impaired children to navigate their world safely and confidently. Learn what O&M is, when to start, and how to support it at home.

6 min readRead guide
TechnologyFree

Assistive Technology for Visually Impaired Students: A Starter Guide

From screen readers to braille displays, assistive technology opens up the world for visually impaired students. This guide covers the essential tools and how to get them funded through your child's IEP.

7 min readRead guide
TransitionFree

Transition Planning: Preparing Your Teen for Life After School

Transition planning is required in every IEP by age 16 — and ideally begins much earlier. Learn what a strong transition plan looks like for a visually impaired student and how to advocate for one.

8 min readRead guide
ResourcesFree

Finding Support: Organizations & Resources for VI Families

You don't have to navigate this alone. This guide covers the key national organizations, funding sources, and community resources available to families of visually impaired children and adults.

6 min readRead guide
Early ChildhoodFree

Early Intervention: What to Do in the First Years After Diagnosis

The early years are critical for children with visual impairments. Learn what early intervention services are available, how to access them, and what you can do at home to support your child's development.

7 min readRead guide
Assistive TechnologyFree

Accessibility Apps and Why They Matter for the Blind Community

From screen readers to navigation tools, accessibility apps have transformed daily life for blind and low-vision individuals. Here's what every family should know about the technology that opens doors.

7 min readRead guide
Family SupportFree

Processing the Emotions After a Visual Impairment Diagnosis

Grief, fear, guilt, and love — all at once. The emotional journey after a diagnosis is real and valid. Here's how families can process what they're feeling and find their footing.

6 min readRead guide
Family SupportFree

Talking to Siblings: How to Support the Whole Family

When one child has a visual impairment, siblings have their own questions, feelings, and needs. Here's how to talk to them honestly and keep the whole family connected.

5 min readRead guide
Recreation & Life SkillsFree

Sports & Recreation for Blind and Visually Impaired Children

Blind and visually impaired children can participate in a wide range of sports and recreational activities. Here's how to find opportunities and why play matters so much.

6 min readRead guide
EducationFree

Supporting Braille at Home: What Parents Can Do

You don't need to be a braille expert to support your child's literacy. Here's how parents can reinforce braille learning at home and why it matters so much.

5 min readRead guide
Family SupportFree

Social Skills and Friendships for Blind and Visually Impaired Children

Social connection is one of the most important — and most overlooked — aspects of raising a blind child. Here's how to support your child's friendships and social development.

6 min readRead guide
Caregiver SupportFree

Caregiver Burnout: Recognizing It and Finding Your Way Back

Caring for a family member with a visual impairment is demanding work. Burnout is real, it is common, and it is not a sign of failure. Here's how to recognize it and what to do.

6 min readRead guide
ResourcesFree

Navigating the Medical System After a Visual Impairment Diagnosis

Ophthalmologists, low vision specialists, neurologists, geneticists — the medical team around a visually impaired child can be overwhelming. Here's how to navigate it with confidence.

7 min readRead guide
Elderly Vision LossFree

Supporting an Elderly Family Member Through Vision Loss

Vision loss in older adults is more common than most families realize — and more manageable than it feels at first. Here's how to support a parent or grandparent through this transition.

7 min readRead guide

Need guidance beyond the guides?

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