Communication and language: visual impairment

The main communication and language challenges for early years children with a visual impairment are:

• Understanding spoken words, particularly those describing objects
• Empathy with those they cannot see, and to whom they may present an impassive face
• Turn-taking because it is difficult to pick up the visual cues
• Following complex instructions

You can:

• Always begin any interaction by saying the child's name to gain attention.
• Use clear, consistent vocabulary for instructions.
• Use multi-sensory toys, equipment and books to develop responses and interaction.
• Repeat activities, words and rhymes to build vocabulary and develop skills for social interaction.