Services for Children

A number of national organizations are dedicated to the well-being of children with blindness or low vision, and they’re important sources of information and support for you.

Overview of Services for Children Who Are Blind or Low Vision

When your child is born with blindness or low vision or acquires one through illness or injury, you may feel shocked, bewildered, and frightened. You may also find that your immediate family members, local doctors, and neighborhood schools are unfamiliar with the impact of blindness or low vision on a child’s learning and education. But you’re not alone.

National, State, and Local Organizations

A number of national organizations are dedicated to the well-being of children who are blind or low vision, and they’re important sources of information and support for you.

Center for Parent Hub provides information in detail about Part C (Early Intervention)
- Overview of Early Intervention | Center for Parent Information and Resources (parentcenterhub.org)
Lists the states and the schools or agencies that serve students who are blind or low vision.
- Council of Schools and Services for the Blind:
Provides direct links to each state’s contacts. The state will list the direct link to the Department of Education, State Higher Education Agency, Special Education Agency, and the State Adult Education Agency.
- U.S. Department of Education
IDEA provides information about the IDEA Statute and Regulations for all children with disabilities. This site covers Office of Special Education Programs, Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services, IDEA by State, and resources for Parents/Families.
- IDEA: Individuals with Disabilities Education Act
Understanding eligibility and the process to apply for Supplemental Security Income SSI for children is explained in detail.
- Understanding Supplemental Security Income SSI for Children
APH Directory of Service allows you to search by state the resources that are available to you. Agencies that support Early Intervention, Advocacy, Library and other needs specifically offered locally will be listed. If you know of an agency that isn’t listed, please reach out to connectcenter@aph.org
- APH ConnectCenter Directory of Services
For Early Intervention services and information for IFSP – Individualized Family Service Plan (Birth to 3 years old )
After Early Intervention, learn more about what services are available to your child and family for IEP – Individualized Education program (3 years to 22 years old)

A child with cerebral palsy on physiotherapy in a children therapy center.

Overview of the Service System for Children Who Are Blind or Have Low Vision

Services for children with blindness or low vision are offered by a wide range of agencies and organizations at the community, state, and national levels. Services and the agencies that […]

Applying for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) If Your Child Is Legally Blind

Supplemental Security Income and Blindness or Low Vision If your child is legally blind, you may be eligible to receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits on their behalf. These benefits […]