c o m m u n i c a t i o n 47
Talking to your child is very important
A child who cannot
see well has a harder
time than other
children learning
The cows got
out of the
field.
what words mean.
This is because he often cannot see
what is being talked about. And
yet, learning to listen to others and
to talk are especially important for
a blind child because these skills
help him understand the world he
does not see.
What
is a
field?
How do
cows
get
out?
Where
will the
cows go?
As you do your daily work or play with
your child, keep talking to her in short,
simple sentences. At first it can be hard,
if you are not used to talking so much.
But remember, this is one of the main
ways your child can learn about the
world — especially those things she
cannot experience herself. Later on, this
will give her more to talk about with
others.
Whew, that’s a
strong smell.
Do you know
what it is,
Rina?
What’s
that smell?
I’m frying meat, Suma.
Can you feel the heat from
the stove? Can you hear
the oil sizzling?
Remember that a child who
can see learns a lot about
the world by observing.
A child who cannot see
well uses her other senses
to learn about the world.
Whenever possible, let her
touch, taste, or smell what
you are talking about.
This helps her begin to
understand what the
words mean.
helping children who are blind