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My child is visually impaired. How should I prepare for my upcoming Child Find evaluation at age 3?

Preparing for a Child Find evaluation at age 3 when your child is visually impaired involves several steps to ensure that the process accurately identifies your child's needs and sets the stage for appropriate support and services.

Here's how you can prepare. Your Early Intervention of the Visually Impaired can help!

#1. Gather Relevant Documents and Information

• Compile medical and eye exam records related to your child's visual impairment, including diagnoses, assessments by specialists (like ophthalmologists or optometrists), and any interventions they have received so far.
  
• Collect information on your child's developmental milestones and any concerns you have noted. This can include physical, cognitive, social, and language development.
• Prepare a list of your child's current abilities, challenges, and any adaptations or tools that have been helpful for them.

#2. Understand the Evaluation Process

• Learn about the Child Find process in your area. While the overall goal is consistent, procedures can vary by school district.
  
• Familiarize yourself with terms and assessments that may be used, such as Individualized Education Plan (IEP), Functional Vision Assessment (FVA) and Learning Media Assessment (LMA).
  

#3. Identify Your Child's Needs and Goals

• Consider what you hope to achieve through the evaluation and subsequent services available through your school district. Think about short-term needs (such as early literacy skills) and long-term goals (like independence in daily activities).
  
• Reflect on any specific concerns you want to address, such as socialization with peers, communication skills, or mobility.

#4. Communicate with Professionals

• Before the evaluation, reach out to the professionals who will be involved, including the school district Teacher of Students with Visual Impairments. Share any documents and information you've gathered that can help them understand your child's history and needs.
  
• Ask questions about the evaluation process, who will be involved, and how results will be used to support your child.
  
• Invite your Early Intervention Teacher of the Visually Impaired to attend the Child Find meeting.
  

#5. Prepare Your Child

• Talk with your child about the evaluation in simple, reassuring terms. Explain that they will meet with some friendly people who will play some "games" with them to learn how they see, learn, and move.
  
• Ensure your child is well-rested and has had a good meal before the evaluation to help them be at their best.

#6. Plan for the Day

• Confirm the time, location, and any logistics for the day of the evaluation. Consider travel time, parking, and any items you might need to bring.
  
• Think about your child's comfort and needs during the appointment. Bring any favorite toys, snacks, or assistive devices they regularly use.
  

#7. Advocate for Your Child

• Be prepared to advocate for your child's needs. This means asking questions, requesting clarification when necessary, and ensuring that the evaluation is thorough and considers all aspects of your child's development.
  
• Your Early Intervention Teacher of the Visually Impaired can be another important advocate for you and your child.
  

#8. Seek Support

• Consider connecting with other parents of visually impaired children or relevant organizations for advice and support. They can offer valuable insights and encouragement.
  

Preparing for the Child Find evaluation is both about gathering information and ensuring you and your child feel ready and supported throughout the process. This proactive approach can help create a solid foundation for your child's educational journey.

photo: Westminster Public Schools