Early Intervention Services
Blind Beginnings works with children ages birth to school entry, along with their families and community team to support development and learning.
Funded through the British Columbia Ministry of Children and Family Development, our Early Intervention services provide specialized support during the most formative years of a child’s development. Our services are designed to address the unique needs of children with visual impairments, ensuring they develop essential skills such as mobility, communication, and social interaction.
By introducing adaptive techniques and assistive technologies early, our services help children achieve developmental milestones alongside their sighted peers. Early intervention also supports families, offering them guidance and resources to effectively support their child’s growth and independence. Ultimately, these services enhance the child’s ability to navigate their environment, build confidence, and develop the foundation for future educational and social success.
Our Early Intervention services include in-home appointments, professional consultation with service providers, and collaboration with stakeholders to ensure the child and families needs are met.
Who can Qualify for Services?
Children must be between the ages of 0 – 5 years old at the time of referral.
Must be a resident of British Columbia
Your child must have a suspected or diagnosed vision impairment or dual sensory loss of vision and hearing.
We recommend a medical report from an ophthalmologist or neurologist verifying vision impairment.
How To Apply for Early Intervention Services
Acceptance into our Early Intervention Services begins with a Referral. Referrals may be made by: pediatric ophthalmologists, neurologists, area hospital personnel and specialists, early intervention specialists, service coordinators and family members.
If a parent has concerns about their child’s visual development, we recommend the child sees a pediatric ophthalmologist prior to beginning the referral process.
Knowing what to do if you have concerns about your child’s vision can be overwhelming. We’re here to help make the process easier.
Fill out our online referral form to begin the process.
If you are unsure if you qualify for Early Intervention Services or have any other questions, email shawn@blindbeginnings.ca.
Once your referral has been received, our Care Coordinator will be in touch within 72 hours.
