Characteristics of Visually Impaired Children

All visually impaired children are not created equal. Although they share the inability to see normally, noticeable characteristics of a visually impaired child may differ due to varying conditions, degrees of severity and individual adaptations. Despite the differences, similar traits may be apparent in children with temporary or permanent visual impairments.

Physical Indications

• Some visually impaired children exhibit few or no physical indications of their condition. Without previous knowledge of the child's impairment, you may be unable to tell that the child sees differently. Children with visual impairments often wear eyeglasses to help them see. Many visual conditions cause sensitivity to light, so children may wear dark glasses to block out the light when they're outside or in brightly lit environments. You may also notice your child blinking, squinting and unable to find small toys or objects.

Mobility Delays

• Large motor skills are often delayed in visually impaired children. Children may require a walking stick to help them maneuver independently at school to avoid falling or bumping into obstacles or other people. Playing popular childhood games like dodge ball, basketball or football may be difficult for visually impaired children because some eye conditions may inhibit depth perception.

Color Deficiency

• Many visually impaired children experience varying degrees of color deficiency. An eye condition called Achromatopsia often causes complete color vision loss. Children may not recognize colors like other children their age, may not be interested in coloring books and often require large-print labels on their crayons, markers and clothing to help them distinguish the proper colors when necessary for dressing or performing color-related school assignments.