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# victaparents.org.uk

Information and support for families of a child is blind or partially sighted

## Sitemaps

- [XML Sitemap](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.

## Posts

- [Indiana: More than her diagnosis](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/indiana-more-than-her-diagnosis/) - Indiana was born a week early, a whopping 9lb 3oz. She was so beautiful and our family was complete. As we were getting ready to go home, during her new born tests they couldn’t see any red reflex at all in either eye. After extensive examinations, numerous opinions, and blood tests, at just one day old
- [The baby we fought to protect](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/the-baby-we-fought-to-protect/) - When we found out about our daughter’s genetic condition, one of the first things I realised and worried about was the uncertainty around conceiving future children. Knobloch Syndrome is a recessive inherited condition, meaning that both my husband and I are carriers. Any future children we decided to have would have a 50% chance of
- [Introducing VICTA Parent Voice: A new podcast for parents](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/victa-parent-voice/) - We’re thrilled to officially launch an exciting new service for our parent community: the VICTA Parent Network: Voice, a podcast created especially for parents of children and young people with vision impairment. This podcast has been designed as a space for honest conversations, shared experiences, and supportive discussions on the topics that matter most to
- [Making Christmas fun for Willow](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/making-christmas-fun-for-willow/) - Christmas has always been my favourite time of the year. There’s just something magical about the season—spending time with family and friends, attending festive events, and getting involved in as many activities as possible. Now that I have children, I love bringing them along for every moment of the excitement and watching the holidays come
- [Still Advocating, Now Breathing: A VI Family’s School Update](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/advocating-now-breathing/) - Back in September 2026, we shared a blog post titled “Exhaustion, advocacy, and overwhelming love: Starting School as a VI family.” It was a deeply honest account of one parent’s experience as her son began school, capturing the fear, exhaustion, and emotional weight that so often accompany moments of big change. Some time has passed
- [Growing Our Family: Not the Journey We Planned, But the One We Needed](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/growing-our-family/) - Orla was born two days after her due date — a beautiful, bouncing baby girl. She passed her new-born checks in hospital with flying colours, and we took her home believing everything was exactly as it should be. At her eight-week check, however, our GP noticed that her red reflex looked unusual. We had already
- [Exhaustion, advocacy, and overwhelming love: Starting School as a VI family](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/starting-school-as-a-vi-family/) - For years I saw pictures of cute 4-year-old boys and girls stood on doorsteps with comments from beaming parents about their first day at school. Never once did I think this time would be one of the scariest, overwhelming, heart-breaking periods of parenthood so far. But then I didn’t know my baby would be visually
- [How to make a pine cone bird feeder](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/pine-cone-bird-feeder/) - This is a fun messy play activity, plus you'll be helping your children think about our garden birds and keeping them fed during the winter months. Using the traditional pine cone teamed with some additional items, you can construct a bird feeder that can be hung outside in your garden to attract some wildlife. You
- [Retinal Dystrophy, Emily's Story](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/watching-my-child-grow-wings/) - Watching my child grow wings Congratulations to Emily Woodhams-Beazeley who is the winner of December’s Blog Factor competition with her celebratory post! My daughter Poppy is eleven and has the eye conditions retinal dystrophy and nystagmus, along with only half a heart. I made tough choices when I was pregnant with her – choices she
- [Technology and your VI child - parent survey](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/technology-vi-survey/) - VICTA Tech Week 2026 will focus on children and young people who have a vision impairment, and their experiences with technology as they transition from primary to secondary school. Ahead of our planned sessions, we’d like to hear from you. Please take a few moments to share your thoughts by answering the questions below. Your
- [UK based play centre inspired by the birth of a vision impaired child- Glow Baby](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/glow-baby/) - I recently sat down with Lauren O’Sullivan Barnes- founder and CEO of East Sussex based play centre-Glow Baby! Glow Baby started back in 2019 as nothing but an idea. My gorgeous little boy Hunter was born in May and we were besotted. I went to many groups which I absolutely loved, but I started to
- [10 accessible pumpkin ideas for Halloween for a child who is blind](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/accessible-pumpkin-halloween-blind/) - Under the current climate Halloween is going to be a slightly different this year. Due to event cancelations and trick or treating being called off, it would be easy to feel disheartened! But there are many things that can be done from the comfort of your own home to celebrate Halloween and get things a
- [Marvin's Story Time Show- for VI and complex needs children](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/marvins-story-time-show/) - Launched by Gwyn McCormack from Positive Eye, the ‘Marvin’s story time show’ is designed to engage children who are VI and complex needs in story telling and literacy. So what is the Marvin Story time show about? Please watch the video below for an explanation about the purpose and the benefits of the show: A
- [My Braille journey- Parent edition](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/my-braille-journey-parent-edition/) - When I first found out that my son was going to need to learn both braille and very large print to read, I have to admit, I panicked. Despite being severely sight impaired myself, I didn’t learn braille as a child due to poor support at school. When you tell people you’re blind, so many
- [Mum on the run! The blindfolded fundraising challenge](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/run-mum-run-the-blindfolded-fundraising-challenge/) - My son, Courtney, was diagnosed as a baby with Optic Nerve Hypoplasia and Oculocutaneous Albinism. He is visually impaired and sees the world very differently to most of us. Every day he faces challenges, but he also amazes me with his strength, determination and love of learning. Courtney is my inspiration for everything I do
- [My VI child- becoming water confident](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/confident-in-water/) - One of the additional worries that comes along with a VI child is water, hear from mummy, Vikki, as she talks about the work she has been doing with her daughter Willow around developing her swimming skills. One thing I always wanted my children to be able to do is swim and be confident
- [test](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/test/)
- [Great toys for vision impaired children this National Play Day](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/national-play-day/) - Did you know that the first Wednesday of every August is National Play Day? To mark the occasion, blind writer Charlotte Bateman shares her memories of play as a child, and her top toy picks especially suited for children with sight loss. One of my happiest memories from childhood is spending endless hours just playing.
- [Keeping Willow busy in the garden this summer- By Vikki Pritchard](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/keeping-willow-busy-in-the-garden/) - We love being outside as a family all year round either out and about exploring or enjoying our own garden. We have recently moved and have been very lucky that our Garden was a blank canvas, meaning we can create our garden to benefit us all. We have started by creating a raised flower bed,
- [The launch of the new Braille Music book- for complete beginners!](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/braille-music-book-for-complete-beginners/) - Is your child a keen musician, but you are finding the learning process difficult as they aren't able to access the sheet music? Does your child currently learn music by ear, but you want to find out more about how they can accessible formats? A new Braille Music Book for complete beginners has recently been
- [Calling a spade a spade - How I felt registering my daughter as blind](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/registering-my-daughter-as-blind/) - With Scarlett being nine years old now, the thoughts and feelings that surrounded the terrifying registration process are well behind me. She has been registered for 8 years and 8 months now, and the help and support opened up as a result of that registration has been amazing. I was lucky to have a very
- [Welcome back to Willow's world- The support is there if you know where to look for it!](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/welcome-back-to-willows-world/) - What a whirlwind the first six months to a year of Willows life has been, following on from all the appointments we started to attend and care meetings we had, it was time to connect with charities that can support us as a whole family throughout this journey, we was first put in touch with
- [Welcome to Willow's World - by Vikki Pritchard](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/willows-world/) - We welcomed Willow into our family in March 2023, following all the normal scans and tests this journey was set to be the same as my other 2, however as soon as Willow was born and passed to daddy, he immediately knew something wasn’t quite right. Willows left eye was not opening like her right,
- [A journey through sight loss- by Nina Chesworth from 'Blind but Sound'](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/blind-but-sound/) - When I was asked to write this blog post from the perspective of a parent, I found it difficult to know exactly what to share because knowing what the experience of those around you can be difficult to read at times. I hope that reflecting on my journey—as a visually impaired child, teenager, and young
- [Supporting a child who is visually impaired with exam revision](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/exam-revision/) - Exam season can be stressful for any child, but for a visually impaired student, it can bring added challenges. As a parent or carer, your support is vital. Here’s how to help them feel confident, prepared and emotionally supported. Understand your child’s exam access needs Confirm what arrangements are in place- Braille papers, extra time,
- [Welcome to our Christmas sensory play session with Crafty Tales!](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/christmas-sensory-play/) - Thank you for joining us for our virtual Christmas sensory play session, hosted by Ellie at Crafty Tales! It’s time to watch the session and join Ellie with your little one for some of her favourite songs and activities and lots of sensory fun! All the activities can be adapted depending on your child’s level
- [Austin’s Amazing Adventures: The Big Test – A Story of Courage, Resilience, and Inclusion. A PENfriend Picture Book](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/austins-amazing-adventures/)
- [Cheshire Eye Society- 150th Anniversary Art Competition](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/cheshire-eye-society-150th-anniversary-art-competition/) - As part of our 150th Anniversary Celebration in 2025, we are inviting Primary schools in our area to take part in an exciting art competition, with prizes for the winning schools and winning pupils. In 1875, our charity was formed to support, educate and re-train people affected by vision impairments in the old Macclesfield Borough.
- [VICTA Parent Services Awarded in the Parent & Baby Awards 2024](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/victa-parent-baby-awards-2024/) - We are delighted to share that VICTA’s Parent Services have been announced as winners in the LUXlife Parent & Baby Awards 2024. Winners in the category ‘Most Enriching Child-Young Adult Social Support Non Profit Organisation 2024 – UK’, it is a wonderful recognition of the supportive community we have built together. We’d like to thank
- [World Sight Day 2024- Children and their eyes](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/world-sight-day-2024-children-and-their-eyes/) - World Sight Day on Thursday October 10, 2024 focuses the world’s attention on the importance of eye care in young people and inspiring children everywhere to love their eyes. The aim of this globally eye health focused campaign is to shine the spotlight on a particular area of interest of eye care and health. This
- [Nicky and Candy’s Street Book Launch](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/nick-and-candys-street-book-launch/) - Celebrating the launch of the new book created by visually impaired author, Ben Andrews. Nicky and Candy’s Street will be part of the Better Places book series, published by Tiny Tree Children’s Books. Ben is a disability rights activist, author and managing director of Beyond Empower, an organisation which aims to support individuals, teams and organisations towards more inclusive offers for
- [Navigating sight loss - A Q&A with my parents](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/navigating-sight-loss-parents/) - When I was diagnosed with Retinitis Pigmentosa aged six, three years after my initial symptoms were noted, the life that stretched before me collapsed into a different reality in which my family and I never expected we’d have to navigate. Despite my positive nature, discontentment has been lodged in my heart for years as
- [Talking about my vision impairment - How my confidence grew over time](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/talkingaboutvisionimpairment/) - Feeling confident in disclosing or talking about my vision impairment was a prospect I could never truly identify with when I was younger. I tried my best to be as open as I could in terms of how Retinitis Pigmentosa was impacting my life, and what support I’d need in lieu of that to navigate
- [My vision impairment has to keep up with me, not the other way around](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/vision-impairment-caitlin/) - Hi, I wasn’t sure what to write in this blog but what do I know the most about? My story! My name is Caitlin, I’m 19 and I am an athlete, musician and a typical university student but I also happen to be severely sight impaired and have a beautiful guide dog called Honey. I
- [Guide Dogs- Free webinar for professionals about My Time To Play](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/my-time-to-play/) - Do you work with children with a vision impairment aged 0-4, including those with complex needs? Join our webinar on Thursday 29 February 4-5pm, to hear how Guide Dogs’ Children and Young Peoples team are supporting children with a vision impairment and their families with early years development through Guide Dogs My Time to Play
- [AbleNet - Exhilarating experiences for vision impaired people](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/ablenet/) - As a blind person, I never thought it would be possible to drive a car. But last year, I received a voucher from my parents for Christmas. It was for a Racetrack Experience through an organisation called AbleNet. I ended up driving a scarlet Ferrari at top speed. And, while there was an instructor sat
- [Wobbly eyes, the tell-tale sign.](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/wobbly-eyes-the-tell-tale-sign/) - Nystagmus aka wobbly eyes, how this condition became the first noticeable symptom of my daughter's vision impairment- by Charlotte Mellor. I have written previously about my early diagnosis journey in discovering my daughter was vision impaired. Diagnosed at the age of 4 months, with optic nerve hypoplasia and then in later life, with complex needs.
- [Parent's Perspective - Dad's Voice](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/parents-perspective-dads-voice/) - Dad’s Voice, by Dave Wood Being the parents of four means a busy life. We have three girls and a boy, each with their own challenges. Both my wife, Gill, and I play our part in trying to organise the chaos – it’s a bit like knitting soup. Our son has multiple disabilities: epilepsy, psoriasis,
- [Movement for Mental Health- A parents workshop delivered by LOOK, RSBC & VICTA](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/movement-for-mental-health/) - Movement for Mental Health- For this years Mental Health Awareness month in May, LOOK, RSBC and VICTA are combining their parent services delivery offer, with a collaborative parents workshop. When: 13 May Time: 7.30pm Location: Zoom Cost: Free An online panel event for parent carers of blind or partially sighted children and young people. This
- [Interview with Samantha Gough - England's first female football captain!](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/sam-gough/) - In this interview, I spoke to Samantha Gough - a 20-year-old blind athlete from Edinburgh, who is the captain of England's first ever blind women's football squad. At school, Samantha encountered numerous barriers in accessing sport. She talks about finding blind football; how the women's game is growing around the world; and her squad's ambition
- [Parent Pathways course- delivered by the RNIB](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/parent-pathways-course-delivered-by-the-rnib/) - Parent Pathways- Free online sessions Hello to all you parents, guardians and carers! Join our community that brings together everyone who is a parent or carer of a child who's blind, partially sighted or lives with any degree of vision impairment. It's a closed group and is here to be a supportive, safe environment where
- [Supporting Children and Young People with Charles Bonnet Syndrome through Awareness and Counselling](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/supporting-children-and-young-people-with-charles-bonnet-syndrome-through-awareness-and-counselling/) - Free webinar supporting children and young people with Charles Bonnet Syndrome Date: Tuesday 18 June 2024 Time: 6:00 pm to 7:00pm Location: Zoom Speakers: Judith Potts, Founder, Esme’s Umbrella Dr. Lee Jones, Clinical Research Fellow, Moosajee Research Team Miles Northwood, Lived Experience with CBS since Childhood Nina Chesworth, Lived Experience with CBS Gemma Ryder, Counsellor,
- [The best tactile arts and crafts for vision impaired young people](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tactile-arts-crafts/) - Arts and crafts provide a wealth of benefits for your child's development. While encouraging creativity and self-esteem, many activities improve hand-eye coordination, grip strength and hand dexterity. Art is also a powerful tool for all age groups, including older children, teenagers and adults alike. It can help to relax and focus the mind which is
- [The six most unique and accessible art galleries for vision impaired people](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/the-six-most-unique-and-accessible-art-galleries-for-vision-impaired-people/) - ...from touch tours to audio described, exhibitions, and more As a blind person, going to an art exhibition may sound like a boring day-out. However, times are definitely changing. With the rise of inclusion, more and more galleries are putting accessibility at the forefront of what they do. Creatives are also experimenting with new art
- [Sleep issues and children with disabilities- by Charlotte Bateman](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/sleep-issues-children-with-disabilities/) - A good night's sleep is essential for mental and physical health. But it is not always easy to get it, especially when you have a child with additional needs. Research shows up to 86% of disabled children suffer with sleep issues. While it tends to be linked with neurodiversity, there are many conditions that can
- [A guide to VI specific counselling and support services](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/vi-specific-counselling-and-support-services/) - Coming to terms with a child's sight loss can be difficult for the whole family. On the one hand, it is a huge physical adjustment as everyone is learning to do things in a different way. But as well as that, sight loss can cause emotional turmoil within the household. Your child may be dealing
- [Introducing Kitchen Tales - A cookbook for children with low vision](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/cookbook-low-vision/) - Kitchen Tales was founded on my lifelong love of cooking and my goal to inspire others to cook and eat healthy while supporting local food suppliers whenever feasible. I’ve always believed in food’s ability to bring people together, which is why I decided to write a cookbook celebrating varied cuisines from all over the world.
- [Reasonable Adjustments in Schools – New guidance from Guide Dogs and NatSIP](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/reasonable-adjustments/) - It is not uncommon for vision impaired children and young people to face a plethora of barriers when it comes to accessing education and being part of an inclusive and supportive school environment. With some extra consideration and adjustment, these barriers can be overcome within mainstream settings. Gaining a greater understanding of what are
- [Sleep and your blind child](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/sleep-and-your-blind-child/) - By Charlotte Mellor Sleep and new born babies can be difficult for any parent. There are many different routes you can take to work with your child to develop a healthy sleeping pattern. Sleep in babies who are born with a visual impairment can be increasingly problematic. This is due to the effects on the
- [Charles Bonnet Syndrome Information Day](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/charles-bonnet-syndrome-information-day/) - Charles Bonnet Syndrome Information Day at Manchester Metropolitan University- Saturday 16th of March. Esme’s Umbrella is hosting a relaxed and friendly CBS Information Day in Manchester on 16 March at Manchester Metropolitan University. The event is free, lunch will be provided and there will be CBS researchers speaking. We are also showing ‘Aspectum’
- [VI accessible sports and mental health](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/sport-mental-health/) - Growing up I never understood people who said they enjoyed exercise. To me, it was this laborious chore that involved sweating profusely, and I found the whole narrative of burning calories and building abs to be quite damaging. But then I realised it didn’t have to be so competitive. While boosting physical strength, exercise has
- [Children's Mental Health Week- Challenge 6](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/childrens-mental-health-week-challenge-6/) - This challenge is great for testing all the new skills you have developed. The body scan technique is a great way of assessing the impact of the previous strategies on both the body and the mind. This is a great way to enforce the positive impact of outdoor based activities on mental health. Its also
- [Children's Mental Health Week- Challenge 5](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/childrens-mental-health-week-challenge-5/) - We have two challenges for today. One looks at how teaching your child is a great way to help them to develop compassion in everyday life. The second challenge looks at how 'boot stomping' can be used to develop good grounding skills and examines the importance of noticing the importance of contact.
- [Children's Mental Health Week- Challenge 4](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/childrens-mental-health-week-challenge-4/) - Today's challenge focuses on natural objects and how exploring them makes you feel. Its a great way to promote your child to think mindfully.
- [Children's Mental Health Week- Challenge 3](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/mental-health-week-challenge-3/) - Here is the third challenge for Children's Mental Health Week. This focuses on incorporating breathing into a tactile activity.
- [Children's Mental Health Week- Challenge 2](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/childrens-mental-health-week-challenge-2/) - Day 2 of the Children's Mental Health Week challenge. This explores the importance of being mindful i nature- a great challenge to help young minds learn how to be more present.
- [Challenge 1- Identify 3 good things in Nature](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/3-good-things-in-nature/)
- [An introduction to Children's Mental Health Week by The Nature Based Learning Hub](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/introduction-to-childrens-mental-health-week/) - To kick of Children's Mental Health week, please watch the below video created by The Nature Based Learning Hub. In this video it covers what the research says about mental health and outdoor learning spaces. We look forward to joining us for the rest of the week why we introduce you to useful strategies for
- [Accessible Elf on the Shelf ideas - for children with a vision impairment](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/accessible-elf-on-shelf/) - It’s that time of year where we share our elf on the shelf ideas! What’s your elf been up to this year? Let us know in the comments… The Elf on the Shelf is getting up to his usual mischief, but what could that mischief be? Does your elf need some ideas which are accessible
- [Blog Factor achievements - football and driving blind!](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/achievements-football-driving/) - It’s time to share our next Blog Factor achievements contributed by young people who have a vision impairment. Thank you to Dylan Harvey and Emmy Anstee! I am goalkeeper in RNC’s sports academy football team. I have participated in one tournament in my career in the football league. I developed match play and had experience
- [My achievements this year!](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/achievements-amy/) - We asked you to send in your achievements as part of our December Blog Factor celebrations! Thank you to Amy Bright who shared her story of her sight loss and the positive milestones she has accomplished. There is so much to be proud of and Amy is a fantastic role model to other students going
- [Marvin’s Winter Wonderland Story Time Show – starts January 7th 2024](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/marvins-winter-wonderland-story/) - A lovely alternative way to enjoy story time beyond the typical story book to include children with VI, CVI, complex needs, their siblings and the whole family! Marvin is a boy with a big kind heart. He is setting off on the Winter Wonderland Adventure with his friend Fabby the Frog who loves to "ribbet" and Rainbow
- [VICTA's Christmas Sensory Pack Appeal](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/victas-christmas-sensory-pack-appeal/) - Every day, four more children in the UK will be diagnosed with sight loss. Two thirds of childhood vision impairment is present from birth or diagnosed in the first year of life. When parents first receive the diagnosis that their baby or toddler has a vision impairment, it can be overwhelming knowing where to begin
- [The Blog Factor - The final month!](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/the-blog-factor-december/) - Time to celebrate! Share the achievements of yourself and others to win a £50 voucher of your choice. We are looking to feature even more writers, whose voices, thoughts, and ideas will become an integral part of the website. We will feature chosen contributions on the website and a winning entry will be chosen to
- [THE ANTI-BULLYING WEEK 2023 CALL TO ACTION](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/the-anti-bullying-week-2023/) - As parents and carers, we worry about our children, all we want is for them to be happy, healthy, and safe. With that in mind, it’s only natural that we worry about bullying -particularly if we think our child may be more vulnerable to bullying, or we have experienced bullying ourselves. We’re here to tell
- [Do we need to make the white stick trendy?](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/white-stick-trendy/) - I thought I would write an article about making the white stick trendy to help my daughter accept it as an essential part of her going out attire. In reality I don't think that’s going to happen. What needs to happen is a harsh lesson of reality for both me and my daughter. For me
- [The ADHD Mum and the Complex Needs Child](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/adhd-mum-complex-needs-child/) - Not only is October Blindness Awareness Month, it's also the month used to highlight the condition ADHD. I wanted to use this opportunity to shine the spotlight on the challenges I face as a woman who has been diagnosed with ADHD and how that impacts raising my 13 year old daughter Scarlett, who is blind,
- [Mix up the Magic on Milkshake! Magical new preschool series, Mixmups sparkles onto Channel 5’s Milkshake!](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/mixups/) - Mixmups, the brand new animation for three to five-year olds, launches on Channel 5’s Milkshake! on the 4th of November. The 52 x 10-minute series is inspired by all children’s love of “mixing” things together as a way of playing, exploring and discovering and aims to encourage individuality, imagination, friendship, and flexible thinking. Commissioned by
- [The BLOG Factor - The Cane Walk](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/cane-walk/) - Together, Ben and his dad David have created this must-listen audio piece for Blindness Awareness Month and World Sight Day. Listen to ‘The Cane Walk’ and take a moment to consider how tricky it can be to navigate when you’re blind. David wrote the poem while Ben memorised, performed and recorded it, adding lots of
- [Blindness Awareness Month - The fight for the right to an equal education](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/blindness-awareness-education/) - Eighteen years ago, my mum and dad fought to secure me the right to an equal education. I had just lost my vision aged four - a very traumatic time for the whole family - and I was due to enrol at a mainstream primary school in Hertfordshire. Unfortunately, instead of helping us, the local
- [VICTA's favourite Blindness Awareness Instagram Accounts - ran by parents, for parents!](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/blindness-awareness-instagram/) - Social media is a great tool for giving people an insight and a snapshot into our lives. It provides opportunities for people from various communities to educate and connect. The internet is a flurry of people I love to follow, it helps me to develop a greater understanding of what life can be like. The
- [The blog factor!](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/blog-factor/) - VICTA is searching for its next content creating superstars to be featured here on the VICTA Parent Portal. By sharing your voice to support others, you could win one of three £50 vouchers. Launched over a decade ago, this parent website has become the cornerstone of parent support services provided by the charity. In its humble
- [Celebrate National Playday with VICTA](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/play-day-victa/) - If you would like to check out the Early Years Sensory Discovery pack in action please click here to see @harrytathamsanderson from Instagram showcasing! #playday2023 #sensoryplay #victauk #PlayOnAShoeString
- [Parents workshop programme- you spoke, we listened!](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/parentsworkshopprogramme/) - The VICTA Parent Workshop Programme has been running now since the pandemic. Born out of a desire to help parents connect- in the virtual sense, we created this programme with the view to provide a platform for people to come together to seek support and advice. These sessions have now been delivered to coming up
- [Launch of CFVI Parent and Carer Guide](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/cfvi-parent-guide/) - The Curriculum Framework for Children and Young People with Vision Impairment (CFVI) was developed to support children and young people with vision impairment access an appropriate and equitable education. We are pleased to announce the launch of our CFVI Parent and Carer Guide, which has been produced to help parents and carers understand and
- [Mother's Day - A day to take a break](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/a-day-to-take-a-break/) - October 2021 - the time I became a Mummy. As a young girl, I had dreamt of having a baby when I was ‘super old’ at the grand age of 20. I’d hold it, love it, feed it and change its nappy. As I grew older, (the grander age of 32!) I still had this
- [Launch of UK book sharing group for vision impaired young people](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/uk-book-share-group/) - Charlotte Edwards, from Shenfield in Essex, is mum to two wonderful daughters. Her youngest, Isabelle, was born vision impaired. Together, they have created a Facebook group that enables parents of blind and partially sighted young people, from across the UK, to have a platform to swap and trade much loved books. Visit the group here:
- [Finn’s experiences with the long cane](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/long-cane-experience/) - This blog was kindly submitted by 11 year old Finn’s Mum, Charlotte. In this blog, written from Finn’s perspective, he shares his journey as a part-time long cane user, detailing how much how using it has positively impacted his day to day life. Hi I’m Finn and I’d like to tell you a little about
- [Cane out in the big bad world- my fear of public reaction](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/cane-out-in-the-big-bad-world/) - By Charlotte Mellor Scarlett and her journey to use her white cane, or as I like to refer to it, the magic wand of independence started out when she was very young. I am sure all of you can identify with the post diagnosis buzz words, google searches, YouTube videos, advice from services and one
- [Disability Awareness Training with a Beaver Troop](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/disability-awareness-training-with-a-beaver-troop/) - By Charlotte Mellor With Sonny’s Beaver Troop working towards their Disability Awareness Badge, I thought it would be a great opportunity to teach them about all things visual impairment. Raising awareness early I feel should be the first port of call and the best way to eradicate any stigma attached to disabilities. It is
- [World prematurity day](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/world-prematurity-day/) - 17th of November marks World Prematurity Day, a day that’s very important to me. It’s a day to raise awareness of premature birth. I never knew that World Prematurity Day was a thing until a few years ago, but it’s something that’s stuck with me ever since. I was born prematurely at 24 weeks and
- [Finally the "Sandman" has started to visit our home](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/finally-the-sandman/) - So after my most recent blog which detailed the issues that I faced with regards to Scarlett's horrific sleep patterns which you can read a bit more about here. I think that has to be one of the most upsetting to read back blogs I have ever written, I definitely felt I was starting to
- [Getting your blind child on a bike, with Get Cycling](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/getting-your-blind-child-on-a-bike/) - By Cecily Morrison We live in a city in which 50% of people commute to work by bicycle at least once a week. Indeed, we rely solely on bicycles to get around. In a city so full of bicycles, we see daily how many shapes, sizes, and configurations they can come in. Some imaginable and
- [Accessible elf on the shelf for children with a visual impairment](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/accessible-elf-on-the-shelf/) - By Emily McMillan It is the time of year when all of Santa’s little helpers are scouting homes to find out who is being naughty or nice! If you are planning to bring an elf to your shelf this year have a look at our list of ideas for making it fun for everyone in the
- [Toy Like Me – how two parents created an inclusive world of play](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/toy-like-me/) - Q&A with Karen Newell- the Co Founder of ToyLikeMe Firstly Karen thank you for agreeing to take part in this Q&A for the VICTA Parent Portal. Can you just tell me a little bit about yourself and how you find yourself to be part of the VI community? Hello my name is Karen, I am
- [RSBC Mental Health Services](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/rsbc-mental-health-services/) - This Children's Mental Health Week, we're thrilled to share information from RSBC about their Families First services. RSBC Families First - Supporting Families of Vision Impaired Children and Young People Discovering that your child has a vision impairment can be a difficult and confusing time. You may feel anxious and apprehensive about what the future
- [The Benefits of Gardening](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/the-benefits-of-gardening/) - Introducing Harriet, our new office intern. One of Harriet's favourite activities is Gardening. In this blog, she shares why she loves it so much! If you thought gardening was an activity you can't enjoy because you have a visual impairment, think again! Being in the garden is a great way to spend time in the
- [Accessible Days Out - Young Adult's Voice](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/accessible-days-out/) - By VICTA Intern, Harriet Smith With Spring on the way, it might be time to start thinking about some places to visit to enjoy a day out. If you're visually impaired, there's plenty to choose from, whether you like spending time in gardens or learning about history at a National Trust property. So read on
- [Applying for a Guide Dog - Young Adult's Voice](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/applying-for-a-guide-dog/) - By VICTA Intern Harriet Smith I first began the process of applying for a guide dog at the end of 2014. The application process is different for everyone, depending on their situation. In my case, I wasn't very confident around dogs. Before I could even be considered for the waiting list I had to improve
- [VICTA on Mental Health](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/victa-on-mental-health/) - This year more than ever VICTA have been tackling mental health issues head on and we have done extensive work in the area to not only benefit children and young people but also parents. One theme throughout all the work we have done is the importance of modelling, whether your child is witnessing your responses
- [The Scruffy the Uffy Journey](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/the-scruffy-the-uffy/) - Over 4 year ago my best friend gave my baby bump a doll she called Scruffy the Uffy. Scruffy became one of our Dexter’s favourite toys. When he was 3 months old, we learnt he had Congenital Glaucoma. This is when he had his very first surgery. At 18 months, Dexter started wearing glasses. He
- [Explaining the concept of a bird to a child who is blind - ‘All things bird’](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/explaining-bird-to-a-blind-child/) - By Charlotte Mellor With spring finally here and new baby animals being born every day, I thought this would be a good time to work with Scarlett and an animal to help her further understand what a bird is. Last year we visited Nuzzlets therapy farm and that allowed Scarlett to explore a whole plethora
- [Scarlett - My Greatest Achievement](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/scarlett-my-greatest-achievement/) - Without continual growth and progress, such words as improvement, achievement, and success have no meaning. - Benjamin Franklin Scarlett, my beautiful nine year old girl, has some significant development delays. Some are down to her sight impairment and some are due to learning difficulties. So we take the little baby steps approach with her and
- [How to make a sensory garden box for a child who is visually impaired](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/sensory-garden-visually-impaired/) - By Charlotte Mellor With Spring in full swing and the sun beginning to peep from behind the clouds, Easter is a perfect time to get out into the garden and start planting. A sensory garden has many benefits for a child who is visually impaired. It can be a great way of introducing new sensory
- [Apps for children who have a visual impairment](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/apps-children-vision-impairment/) - Hello everybody. I hope you’re all well and have had a great year. I’ve been asked by Charlotte to write another short article giving twelve of the best accessible apps that are currently available for Apple iOS devices. There are of course apps for Android devices too, but as I’m not a trainer for Android
- [Positive Eye top tips for the 'Gwyness' of Gwyn!](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/positive-eye-top-tips/) - Getting ready to work! This month's Top Tips for Education and learning brought to us by Gwyn McCormack from Positive Eye are around preparing work stations and environments to get the most effective learning setting for your child. These tips can either be implemented at home, as a parent whilst assisting your child's learning or
- [Positive Eye Idea 8: Story Buckets](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/positive-eye-story-buckets/) - Gwyn McCormack from Positive Eye has generously submitted a series of ‘Top Ideas’, which we will be sharing each month. You can read her introduction to the series and other posts here. This specific series is centred around the importance of concept development when teaching children who have a vision impairment. The ‘Top Ideas’ can
- [Positive Eye Idea 10: Activity Board](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/positive-eye-activity-board/) - Gwyn McCormack from Positive Eye has generously submitted a series of ‘Top Ideas’, which we will be sharing each month. You can read her introduction to the series and other posts here. This specific series is centred around the importance of concept development when teaching children who have a vision impairment. The ‘Top Ideas’ can
- [Positive Eye Idea 12: Facial Expressions](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/positive-eye-facial-expressions/) - Gwyn McCormack from Positive Eye has generously submitted a series of ‘Top Ideas’, which we will be sharing each month. You can read her introduction to the series and other posts here. This specific series is centred around the importance of concept development when teaching children who have a vision impairment. The ‘Top Ideas’ can
- [Positive Eye Idea 13: Story Bags to Go](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/positive-eye-story-bags/) - Gwyn McCormack from Positive Eye has generously submitted a series of ‘Top Ideas’, which we will be sharing each month. You can read her introduction to the series and other posts here. This specific series is centred around the importance of concept development when teaching children who have a vision impairment. The ‘Top Ideas’ can
- [Positive Eye Idea 14: Word Matching Game](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/positive-eye-word-matching/) - Gwyn McCormack from Positive Eye has generously submitted a series of ‘Top Ideas’, which we will be sharing each month. You can read her introduction to the series and other posts here. This specific series is centred around the importance of concept development when teaching children who have a vision impairment. The ‘Top Ideas’ can
- [Positive Eye Idea 16: Model Making](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/positive-eye-model-making/) - Gwyn McCormack from Positive Eye has generously submitted a series of ‘Top Ideas’, which we will be sharing each month. You can read her introduction to the series and other posts here. This specific series is centred around the importance of concept development when teaching children who have a vision impairment. The ‘Top Ideas’ can
- [Positive Eye Idea 17: Matching Bucket Game](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/positive-eye-matching-bucket/) - Gwyn McCormack from Positive Eye has generously submitted a series of ‘Top Ideas’, which we will be sharing each month. You can read her introduction to the series and other posts here. This specific series is centred around the importance of concept development when teaching children who have a vision impairment. The ‘Top Ideas’ can
- [Positive Eye Idea 18: Number Tree](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/positive-eye-number-tree/) - Gwyn McCormack from Positive Eye has generously submitted a series of ‘Top Ideas’, which we will be sharing each month. You can read her introduction to the series and other posts here. This specific series is centred around the importance of concept development when teaching children who have a vision impairment. The ‘Top Ideas’ can
- [Positive Eye Idea 19: Story Scenes](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/positive-eye-story-scenes/) - Gwyn McCormack from Positive Eye has generously submitted a series of ‘Top Ideas’, which we will be sharing each month. You can read her introduction to the series and other posts here. This specific series is centred around the importance of concept development when teaching children who have a vision impairment. The ‘Top Ideas’ can
- [Positive Eye Idea 20: Tactile Tractor Wheels Game](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/positive-eye-tactile-tractor/) - Gwyn McCormack from Positive Eye has generously submitted a series of ‘Top Ideas’, which we will be sharing each month. You can read her introduction to the series and other posts here. This specific series is centred around the importance of concept development when teaching children who have a vision impairment. The ‘Top Ideas’ can
- [Positive Eye Idea 1: Concept Development](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/positive-eye-concept-development/) - Gwyn McCormack from Positive Eye has generously submitted a series of ‘Top Ideas’, which we will be sharing each month. You can read her introduction to the series and other posts here. This specific series is centred around the importance of concept development when teaching children who have a vision impairment. The ‘Top Ideas’ can
- [Positive Eye Idea 2: Everyday Collections](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/positive-eye-everyday-collections/) - Gwyn McCormack from Positive Eye has generously submitted a series of ‘Top Ideas’, which we will be sharing each month. You can read her introduction to the series and other posts here. This specific series is centred around the importance of concept development when teaching children who have a vision impairment. The ‘Top Ideas’ can
- [To SATs or not to SATs? That is the question](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/sats/) - SATs are considered a compulsory examination for your child to take. But what is the stance if your child is visually impaired? Standard Attainment Tests (SATs) are made up of a combination of testing and teacher assessment judgements. They’re carried out in primary schools in England at the end of Key Stages 1&2, when children
- [Positive Eye Idea 21: Role Play](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/positive-eye-role-play/) - Gwyn McCormack from Positive Eye has generously submitted a series of ‘Top Ideas’, which we will be sharing each month. You can read her introduction to the series and other posts here. This specific series is centred around the importance of concept development when teaching children who have a vision impairment. The ‘Top Ideas’ can
- [How I express myself in the pursuit of better mental health](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/pursuit-better-mental-health/) - The 1st-7th February marks Children’s Mental Health Week 2021, and this year’s theme is ‘express yourself’. To honour this, I thought I’d note a few ways in which I’ve been able to express myself over the years and how these things have contributed positively to my mental health. I never dismissed an opportunity to do
- [Libraries with no Braille Books - A mother's fight](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/libraries-with-no-braille-books/) - It is a rarity to see accessible literature stocked in local mainstream libraries for children with a visual impairment. This post is provided by a parent, who managed to make her library an inclusive environment for her braille reading daughters. Was it an effortless task? Did the local authority play ball? What kicked off this
- [How to make a Christmas Sensory Tray!](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/christmas-sensory-tray-2021/) - Making a Christmas Sensory Tray A Christmas Sensory Tray is a great way for your little one to experience lots of Christmassy items, in a safe, controlled way. Firstly, you need a large tray or box. I had a cardboard tray left over from a food delivery, which was perfect. I just left it as
- [Frozen ice balls- add a splash of colour to the traditional snowball concept](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/frozen-ice-balls/) - These 'snowballs' or 'ice balls' are a fun quick activity that you can do with your children at home to make some very striking-coloured globes that would contrast great against some white snow background- especially if we get a white Christmas. All you need to create these ice balls are some balloons, coloured food dye
- [Traditional Scented Christmas Garland](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/scented-christmas-garland/) - Add a little accessibility to your Christmas decorations this year and think about how you can incorporate some scented traditional DIY garlands into your Christmas décor. These really sweet and very simple to create dried fruit garlands are a great for all the family fun activity.... just make sure you do it on a day
- [Q&A with Emmy Anstee all about her YouTube channel.](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/emmy-anstee-youtube/) - Emmy Anstee, who has been a regular attendee of VICTA events for a number of years now recently created a video telling us all about the positive experiences that she gained through participating with our events. Emmy has created her very own YouTube channel which explores her life. Her view to creating this
- [Cameron's Smile. A journey from trauma to love](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/camerons-smile/) - This article submitted by parent and Cameron's Smile founder is all about her new recently published book 'Cameron's Smile- raising a deafblind child'. I have known Carla, the book author for a number of years through social media and have observed a warrior Mummy who is always caught deep in battle to get her child
- [The summer break - thrive or survive?](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/summer-break-thrive-survive/) - As the summer holidays draws to an end, I hope like myself you have been able to make many magical memories with your children. With having such a long periods of time off school due to the pandemic, I must admit this break felt much nicer, it was official, we knew where we stood, we
- [Harvest Happiness! How to keep connected with nature during Autumn](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/harvest-happiness-autumn-mental-health/) - This year VICTA has been working very hard to create a lots of outdoor opportunities, ways to meaningfully engage with nature, promoting the links between gardening and well-being. As a charity, we recognise that there are many barriers faced by young people who are visually impaired and their ability to connect with the UK's green
- [Samantha - Goalball Success](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/samantha-goalball/) - This story truly demonstrates how just by 'having a go', something magical can happen... Submitted by Louise Gough about her 16 year old daughter Samantha, this story tells us about how, by working with various organisations, Samantha's natural talent was able to shine. Earlier this year, Samantha attended a VI sport taster day in Dundee.
- [Achievement Blog - The pupil becomes the teacher](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/achievement-blog/) - Achievement Blog - When the pupil becomes the teacher Charlotte spoke to Julie about her 13 year old daughter, Emma. Emma is using her knowledge and experience to help specialist teachers work more effectively with children with additional needs. Emma is in mainstream school and has been all through her education. Her 1:1 has been
- [Achievement Blog - Surfing Success](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/achievement-blog-surfing-success/) - In this month's Achievement blog, mum Jane shares her daughter Natalie's surfing success, and how she quickly became a Surfer Dude! Hello this is Natalie. One Christmas while we were watching TV, an advert came on and it showed people surfing. Natalie, who has always loved the water, immediately said, "I want to do
- [How braille has impacted my life - Young Adult's Voice](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/how-braille-has-impacted-my-life/) - The 4th January was World Braille Day which takes place on Louis Braille’s birthday. He invented braille, so it felt like a good time to write a blog post on the topic. My name is Holly, I’m the author of the blog Life of a Blind Girl. I’m really excited to be a regular blogger
- [The Carers Trust Online Communities](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/the-carers-trust-online-communities/) - Our team is responsible for the online communities run by Carers Trust, which support carers of all ages. We provide carers with the opportunity to access a wide variety of advice, information, social and peer support through our three online communities: www.babble.carers.org (for young carers under the age of 18), www.matter.carers.org (for young adult carers
- [What is Cerebral Visual Impairment?](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/what-is-cerebral-visual-impairment/) - Cerebral Visual Impairment (commonly referred to as CVI) is a form of visual impairment caused by the brain not being able to process information from the eyes passing along the visual pathways in the brain. It is the commonest cause of visual impairment in children in the developed world. If you know someone who
- [My life as a 20 year old living with a visual impairment](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/my-life-as-a-20-year-old-living-with-a-visual-impairment/) - By Holly Tuke My name is Holly and I am 20 years old. I am registered as severely sight impaired, I have the eye condition Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP) due to the fact that I was born at 24 weeks. I am currently at university studying Children, young people and families in the hope to
- [Helping a blind child to understand the senses at the farm](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/helping-a-blind-child-to-understand-the-senses-at-the-farm/) - By Charlotte Mellor Farm animals are a perennial favourite with young children, and feature prominently in games, learning activities and early literature. The great thing about these types of animals is that it offers children a chance to get ‘hands-on’, which can help a child who is visually impaired gain a greater understanding of how
- [Anopthalmic Socket Expansion and Cranial Osteopathy](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/anopthalmic-socket-expansion-and-cranial-osteopathy/) - By Cecily Morrison If a child is born without eyes (anopthalmic), then socket expansion is recommended. An expander is put into the socket, which gradually expands, creating space in the tissue to enable a false eye to be fitted at a later age. The more important aspect, according to our doctors, was the role of
- [Battling for answers – My quest for the non-existent definitive](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/battling-for-answers/) - By Charlotte Mellor Scarlett is five years old and in her very short life she has had a hell of a lot of things thrown at her. At four and a half months we were told she had a problem with her vision, which in itself is an awful lot to comprehend, but some days
- [Sensory Curriculum Ideas – Walking to the shop](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/sensory-curriculum-ideas-walking-to-the-shop/) - By Gwyn Mccormack Here I share some ideas to support the theme of walking to the shop! Tactile: Dressing for different weathers to walk to the shop: Rainy day – cagoule and wellingtons, umbrella – splashing in puddles, simulate sound of rain with watering can on tin tray Sunny day – sun glasses, sun hat, t-shirt, shorts,
- [The role of the Teaching Assistant](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/the-role-of-the-teaching-assistant/) - By Daniel Williams In the last forty years, there has been a seismic shift in attitudes to students with visual impairment. Until the 1960s, specialist education was the norm: nowadays ninety-five percent are educated in mainstream schools. Looking back The process of assimilation, which began in the ‘70s, gained huge momentum in the ‘80s. It
- [Celebrating Life's Little Progresses](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/celebrating-lifes-little-progresses/) - By Charlotte Mellor Today’s post is one that is full of happiness! I have spoken in the past somewhat about how sometimes you feel like you’re standing still, when in fact you are moving forward. And sometimes progress can be with such little footsteps that it is hard to recall how far you have actually
- [The Amber Trust: Music for blind and partially sighted children](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/the-amber-trust/) - By Cecily Morrison The Amber Trust is a charity set up to fund and support music for blind and partially sighted babies and children. Their tag line is that music is a life line, not a past time. They fund instruments and music lessons, as well as provide advice from engaging a blind baby with
- [Scarlett and her beloved Ear Defenders](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/beloved-ear-defenders/) - Over the past 6 months, perhaps slightly longer you may or may not have noticed Scarlett has been sporting some snazzy new head gear, I have been asked lots about the what, whys and where's she has been using her ear defenders so I have decided to do a little research and find out just
- [Visit to a Birds of Prey Centre with a child who is blind](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/visit-to-a-birds-of-prey-centre/) - By Charlotte Mellor Following on from my previous post which looked at a multi-sensory approach to developing the concept of a bird with a child who is blind and who has additional complex learning needs ‘Explaining the concept of a bird to a child that is blind – All things bird’ I finished off the
- [Making a Spring Tree](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/making-a-spring-tree/) - By Emily McMillan We have invited spring into our home with an Easter tree! We cut a branch of the prettiest smelling blossom we could find (with permission!), and then made our own base using plastic cups, stones from the garden and tin foil. You can let your imagination run will with your decorations, we
- [Creating textured eggs with a child who is blind- Easter Crafts](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/creating-textured-eggs/) - By Charlotte Mellor With Easter time looming this gives plenty of opportunity to create some multi sensory themed textured eggs. There are masses of ideas on the internet to create not only textured eggs but noisy ones too, here is mine and Scarlett’s textured eggs project! What you need: Gems Stickers Pipe cleaners Fury
- [Changing states: Oobleck slime](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/changing-states-oobleck-slime/) - By Charlotte Mellor Selecting one appropriate from list of experiments available from the British Science Week website, I decided something that involved getting her hands messy would be a good start! Messy play that is not only Scientific but also very valuable for children who have complex needs like Scarlett. If you would like to
- [The Day I Saw My Daughter Play](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/the-day-i-saw-my-daughter-play/) - By Charlotte Mellor Scarlett my beautiful six year old angel of a daughter is blind, she has no useful vision, as she has grown older it has become very clear that she has a variety of very complex needs, she may be on the autistic spectrum, she is none verbal and has difficulties around social
- [My top ten tips for living with a partially sighted person – By Liam Mackin](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/living-with-a-partially-sighted-person/) - This week, in a break from the usual Wednesday night slot, I’m delighted to be writing a piece for Young Person’s Voice month on throughscarlettseyes.com This week I’m sharing my top ten tips for living with a partially sighted person. Lots of people who have blind or partially sighted children, parents, siblings, partners and flatmates
- [My life after I lost my sight at age nineteen - by Warren Wilson](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/my-life-after-i-lost-my-sight/) - So there I was stood in a small club at the age of 18 with a group of friends and my girlfriend all huddled together singing along to the Noah and the Whale song 'In five years time'. None of us knew where we would be in five years time, but boy how our lives
- [The Talking Journey Continued: Tactile Cueing](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/the-talking-journey-continued-tactile-cueing/) - By Cecily Morrison I first wrote about Ronan’s struggle to speak (at least in any way understandable to the rest of us) when he was just over three in this blog. Ronan will be five in a few months and that journey continues. Ronan now talks a lot, but we still struggle with understanding what
- [Scarlett in Wonderland](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/scarlett-in-wonderland/) - By Charlotte Mellor People are fascinated by the way in which Scarlett conducts herself, she seems to live among the fairies most of the time and is very happy in her own little world. I love watching her, doing all the things that people often deem to be socially unacceptable, a whole different set of
- [Parenting: VI Edition - by Grace Marsh](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/parenting-vi-edition-by-grace-marsh/) - A few weeks after I was born – the long-awaited first child of a couple in their late twenties – my family realised that my eyes weren’t focusing on objects or people, and instantly began to worry. My mother in particular was stressed to the point of hair loss (everything other than her lashes fell out!),
- [Meeting the challenge, dismissing the 'No, no'](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/meeting-the-challenge/) - By Ian Beverley As a matter of curtesy and politeness, I must first introduce myself. My name is Ian Beverley; I’m 42 years old and have been visually impaired all my life. I was born partially sighted and subsequently lost all remaining vision by the age of 14. I currently work as an assistive Technology
- [Positive Eye practical approaches - braille games: 5 rocket men fly to the moon](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/positive-eye-braille-games-5-rocket-men/) - By Gwyn McCormack Here is a fun game to make with your child, using the Lazy Sue, £5.50 from IKEA. The Lazy Sue is a versatile tool and has many lovely fun uses. This is one of many I demonstrate on courses. You can adjust according to your child’s learning and development. You need: 1
- [Red Flags: Signs that your child is suffering from vision problems](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/red-flags-vision-problems/) - August marked Children’s Eye Health and Safety Month (as well as it almost being time to go back to school!) and the World Health Organisation has found that 19 million* children in the world are visually impaired. Of this amount, 12 million are visually impaired due to refractive errors which can be easily diagnosed and corrected
- [How my parents support me and my vision impairment - by Elin Williams](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/parents-support-vision-impairment/) - My name is Elin, I am a 19-year-old student and blogger from North Wales. I was diagnosed with a degenerative eye condition called Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP) at the age of six and have since been diagnosed with another condition called Optic Disc Drusen shortly following my 19th birthday. I was registered blind/severely sight impaired
- [Vision without Sight - A film for World Sight Day](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/vision-without-sight/) - [vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] Q&A with film maker and parent Hannah Lake for World Sight Day [/vc_column_text][vc_separator style=”dotted”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1570541191092{padding-bottom: 20px !important;}”] Hannah, thank you for answering our questions so that we and other parents can find out more about the film you are releasing for World Sight Day. We’d love to hear a brief introduction about you and
- [Bonfire Night! How I make it inclusive for all my family](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/bonfire-tips/) - From people I have spoken to, whether that be a parent or a child who has a visual impairment or a visually impaired person, my response to the question "Do you enjoy Bonfire Night?" can differ greatly. Some people adore it and find it a real sensory explosion of lights and noises against dark back
- [Disability is no hurdle to achievement - Alice's Story!](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/disability-is-no-hurdle-to-achievement/) - By Charlotte Mellor and mummy Susannah We at the VICTA Parent Portal want to use the website as a positive publishing platform to celebrate achievements. If you are exceptionally proud of your child for something amazing they have achieved, then the VICTA Parent Portal wants to help you shout it from the roof tops! After
- [Christmas Scented Dough](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/christmas-scented-dough/) - [vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”33776″ img_size=”full”][vc_column_text] Here is how we created some sensory Christmas scented dough. It was surprisingly easy and fun to do with the kids! We took a basic play dough recipe and added some wintery additions to make it smell like Christmas. For the dough we mixed: 280g of flour 2 teaspoons each of ground
- [Make your own tactile Christmas decorations](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tactile-christmas-decorations/) - [vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”33776″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] It’s the most wonderful time of the year… Christmas is a great time to get your children crafting and creating. What better way to get them involved than making their own tactile Christmas decorations. We’ve shortlisted some of our favourite entries from VICTA’s Christmas Decoration Competition over the years.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_column_text] Paper
- [Recommended Christmas outings for a child who is blind](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/christmas-outings-blind-child/) - The festive season is like a sensory explosion! There are so many great things going on at this time of year that your child can get involved with that don't just focus on the visual. Here are my top tips on sensory festive outings that can be enjoyed by all the family. Christmas Markets These
- [Festive Braille Biscuits](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/festive-braille-biscuits/) - I am not really one for baking, but I am certainly one for introducing Braille to my little girl in a creative way. Scarlett is a massive fan of biscuits, it is one of the primary words in her vocabulary. Every day after school she marches in repeating biscuit over and over. So I have
- [When Scarlett Met Rudolph!](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/scarlett-met-rudolph/) - Since Scarlett has been attending a school that has a sensory diet in place to assist her with her sensory processing disorder, I have seen a marked improvement in her willingness to explore objects with her hands. This was always a massive barrier to Scarlett's learning and development so I am very thankful that she
- [If Scarlett could write a Christmas List...](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/scarletts-christmas-list/) - "Fill your life with experiences and not things"- Unknown Well it's that time of the year again. Whilst considered the most wonderful time of the year by many, the holidays can also be a source of stress, pressure, financial constraints and perhaps a sinking feeling of not being able to do enough for your children.
- [Christmas Treasure Basket](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/christmas-treasure-basket/) - [vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] By Gwyn from Positive Eye In this wonderful video provided by Gwyn from Positive Eye she shows us how to make a festive themed Christmas Treasure Basket. Christmas is a very sensory time of year with all the exciting textures, smells, sights and sounds. Treasure baskets are used as an effective learning tool
- [Festive education - Creative literacy and numeracy ideas on the theme of ‘Frozen’](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/festive-education-frozen/) - By Gwyn McCormack from Positive Eye Creating a holistic approach based on a theme or story enables children who are visually impaired to access and enjoy literacy and numeracy activities in a meaningful way. The film ‘Frozen’ has been tremendously popular with many children. The following are accessible, creative, fun ideas and suggestions to
- [Festive Gingerbread Slime](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/festive-gingerbread-slime/) - Here is some festive slime inspiration... with being able to add colours, scents, glitter- whatever takes your fancy, this is a great 5-13 age range project, where you can learn about combining ingredients to make something tangible and sensory! Ingredients: 1 cup Elmer’s White Glue4 tsp. Saline Contact Solution¼ cup Water1 cup Sensitive Shaving Cream1 T. Molasses1 T.
- [5 Ways to Wellbeing - Children's Mental Health Week](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/5-ways-to-wellbeing/) - Being a parent can be overwhelming. Being a parent to a visually impaired child can be even more confusing and complex. With frightening statistics about children and mental health readily available on the internet, we can feel powerless in making sure our children are happy and safe. However, there are some simple tips you can
- [How your child's visual impairment can affect siblings mental health](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/siblings-mental-health/) - During Children’s Mental Health Week, we're using the VICTA Parent Portal to raise as much awareness around the topic as possible, to ensure that the conversations that need to happen - happen. We need to end the stigma attached to the subject, no matter how sensitive the subject may be. As the former Through Scarlett’s
- [Heartbreak - Children's Mental Health Week](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/childrens-mental-health-letter-vi-daughter/) - Here is an open, honest, and beautiful letter, written by one mum to her daughter. To my darling girl, I want you to know that to me you will always be a superstar. You are such a wonderful, clever, kind-hearted young person, but life for anyone growing up is really hard going. You have reached
- [Gwyn's Top Tips: Getting Ready for Work](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/positive-eye-top-tips-1/) - Gwyn McCormack from Positive Eye has generously submitted a series of ‘Top Ideas’, which we will be sharing each month. Gwyn worked for many years as a teacher, first in mainstream secondary school and then as a Qualified Teacher of Vision Impairments. She was inspired to set up Positive Eye by a passionate desire to
- [Positive Eye Idea 3: Concept Hanger](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/positive-eye-concept-hanger/) - Gwyn McCormack from Positive Eye has generously submitted a series of ‘Top Ideas’, which we will be sharing each month. You can read her introduction to the series and other posts here. This specific series is centred around the importance of concept development when teaching children who have a vision impairment. The ‘Top Ideas’ can
- [Positive Eye Idea 4: Maths Investigation Box](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/positive-eye-maths-investigation/) - Gwyn McCormack from Positive Eye has generously submitted a series of ‘Top Ideas’, which we will be sharing each month. You can read her introduction to the series and other posts here. This specific series is centred around the importance of concept development when teaching children who have a vision impairment. The ‘Top Ideas’ can
- [Positive Eye Idea 5: Simple Shape Sorter](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/positive-eye-shape-sorter/) - Gwyn McCormack from Positive Eye has generously submitted a series of ‘Top Ideas’, which we will be sharing each month. You can read her introduction to the series and other posts here. This specific series is centred around the importance of concept development when teaching children who have a vision impairment. The ‘Top Ideas’ can
- [Positive Eye Idea 6: Rows and Columns](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/positive-eye-rows-columns/) - Gwyn McCormack from Positive Eye has generously submitted a series of ‘Top Ideas’, which we will be sharing each month. You can read her introduction to the series and other posts here. This specific series is centred around the importance of concept development when teaching children who have a vision impairment. The ‘Top Ideas’ can
- [Positive Eye Idea 7: Lazy Sue Activities](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/positive-eye-lazy-sue/) - Gwyn McCormack from Positive Eye has generously submitted a series of ‘Top Ideas’, which we will be sharing each month. You can read her introduction to the series and other posts here. This specific series is centred around the importance of concept development when teaching children who have a vision impairment. The ‘Top Ideas’ can
- [Parent's Perspective - Diagnosis](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/parents-perspective-diagnosis/) - I am by no means an expert. I am a parent, who has learnt without a manual. This opportunity to share my stories and experience for the VICTA Parent Portal, to be able to represent a parent’s voice is, I hope, an enjoyable read for you. I’ve pondered over the last week where to begin.
- [8 ways lockdown has had a positive impact on my life- By Holly Tuke](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/8-ways-lockdown-has-had-a-positive-impact-on-my-life-by-holly-tuke/) - The current global pandemic is having an impact on all of us, we’re doing things we’re not used to, whether it’s adjusting to working from home or adapting to home schooling, our lives have changed one way or another. Lockdown has had an impact on children too, and it is important that we remember
- [Never be afraid to ask for help - struggles with Scarlett's sleep](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/help-struggles-sleep/) - It is a fantasy to think that you can be happy constantly, some days really are sent to test us and I expect there are lots of people who have had an excess of these testing days during the pandemic. Happy isn't appropriate in all situations, we have to understand which emotions are just healthy
- [Christmas is not cancelled! Fun festive accessible events across the UK](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/christmas-is-not-cancelled-fun-festive-accessible-events-across-the-uk/) - During a time of uncertainty as to what the government guidelines state can and cannot be open and the risk to people's health being in busy areas but there are still events being held across the country that can still go ahead whilst following government rules and maintaining social distancing. North West The Lanterns at
- [Exceeding Expectations](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/exceeding-expectations/) - Exceeding expectations and achieving your goals in the ‘new normal’ January is the month where many of us think about setting ourselves some goals, think about what we’d like to achieve, and reflect on our goals and achievements over the last year or so. To be completely honest, I haven’t set myself any strict goals
- [Pandemic Positivity- Connecting with others through creativity.  An interview with Samantha Gough](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/pandemic-positivity-connecting-with-others-through-creativity-an-interview-with-samantha-gough/) - Hi Sam, firstly thank you for agreeing to take part in the interview and sharing with us some insights into the positive work that you have been doing during lockdown in order to help others. Can you start by telling us a little bit about yourself? Hi, my name is Samantha Gough, I am 17
- [Finding a Sense of Belonging in a Sighted World](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/sense-belonging-sighted-world/) - When thinking about growing up with a vision impairment, finding a sense of belonging and everything that intertwines with that such as friendships, the first thought that came to mind was ‘it can all feel like a rollercoaster’. And I guess that’s how I’d sum it up. I’m very lucky to be surrounded by incredibly
- [Some days I need you, more than you need me](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/open-letter-to-sonny/) - In this final post in Children's Mental Health Week I am going to explore a topic I have touched on before especially in respect to Scarlett's younger brother Sonny. This open letter is a follow up from last year's post examining the effects of Scarlett's disability on her brother Sonny, in particular at how outsiders
- [25 things only a mum of a visually impaired child would know](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/25-things-only-mum-vi-would-know/) - By Charlotte Mellor Becoming a parent to any child is magical in its own right. But below is a list of observations about things only a mum of a child who is visually impaired would know. Myself and a group of other super-mums have helped to create this list! How many of them resonate with
- [For my mum - A poem for mother's day](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/poem-for-mum/) - A special poem for Mother's Day, by Charlie Beeston Born to a mum, whose love is so real Into this world I came Looking around for someone to see Not seeing is somewhat insane The touch of her hand, the smell of her skin The love that she shows to me The guidance she
- [What does 'Coronavirus' mean to me? - Scarlett's account](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/coronavirus-scarletts-account/) - Scarlett is 9 years old and is blind. She has had no sight since birth due to a condition called Optic Nerve Hypoplasia. Scarlett is considered a complex child as she has development delay, multi sensory impairment and learning difficulties. Due to this Scarlett has considerable language and communication issues which means any conversations around
- [Early Years home-based messy play ideas!](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/early-years-messy-play-ideas/) - Messy play is an exciting sensory and tactile experience for children, and is extremely important for children's development. It can be really helpful for developing fine motor skills as a variety of hand movements are utilised when participating in messy play activities. Squeezing, scooping, pinching, rolling, twisting, taring, grasping... the list goes on are all
- [Missing Friends - By Emma Amos](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/missing-friends/) - Thanks to 14 year old Emma for submitting this poem about missing friends during lockdown. I can’t wait to see people without having to stand two metres apart I’m missing all my friends and family with all my heart I’m so bored at home, I wish I could go back to school Trying to keep
- [The "Coronacoaster" and I.](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/the-coronacoaster-and-i/) - I find it quite difficult to write during a crisis. I find that I can be quite negative especially when I feel overwhelmed, which I openly admit at times I have felt. But as lock-down is beginning to ease and things are starting to revert back to some sense of normality, I have started to
- [World Mental Health Day- Anxiety is my default](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/world-mental-health-day-anxiety-is-my-default/) - Happy World Mental Health day everyone! This day is used to highlight issues, start conversations, remove stigma and to give you an opportunity to say "I'm not okay". I have often spoke about how anxious thoughts have plagued me since childhood and how meeting Scarlett's needs, navigating an unhelpful system has exasperated this throughout my
- [Blindfolded Halloween Games- Fun for all the family](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/blindfolded-halloween-games-fun-for-all-the-family/) - Halloween wouldn't be Halloween without a few key ingredients! Sweets, Costumes, Trick or Treating and GAMES! Halloween is a great time of year to play some games- whether at home with your family and friends, or at a Halloween spootackular party, this is a great time of year to incorporate a blindfolded game that will
- [Turn a Blind Eye](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/turn-a-blind-eye/) - About me Hi, I’m Sam. I’m 27 years old and I live in North Wales. On the 28th August 2020 I was declared legally blind. Before we get to where I am now, we need to go back to February 2004. I was told I had Leukaemia, and had to undergo a bone marrow transplant
- [Mental Health Awareness](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/mental-health-awareness/) - Helping to preserve your child's mental health is difficult enough if they don't have a disability, so — as the parent or carer of a visually impaired child — what should and can you do to help them? Well, as a twenty-one-year-old who's been totally blind for seven years, and registered blind from birth, I'm
- [The launch of new children's book for visually impaired young people](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/childrens-book-visually-impaired/) - Click the link below to watch my interview with Dave Steele aka The Blind Poet. He tells us all about his experiences of living with Retinitis Pigmentosa and the work he has done in the visually impaired community since his diagnosis. The Blind Poet is now a global brand and Dave has used his creative
- [Guide Dog Experience Day](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/guide-dog-experience-day/) - By Charlotte Mellor On the 2nd June 2016 we very luckily managed to secure a place on the Guide Dog Experience Day, hosted by Guide Dogs for the Blind and Blind Children UK. We had attended a similar event in 2014 and I was very keen to see how Scarlett would respond to the lovely
- [My experience of reading and accessing books](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/accessing-books/) - I have always enjoyed reading from a young age, and try to read as many books as I can. Generally, I prefer to read books in braille rather than audio. I like to imagine the characters in my head and struggle to do this with audio books if it's not a good reader. I choose
- [Early Years home-based music and movement session ideas!](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/early-years-music-movement-ideas/) - Music and movement sessions are great interactive sessions are great for children in the early years and can form the basis of many life transferable skills as they grow older. They are easy to run and with music being a key motivator for children who have a visual impairment its great for increasing levels of
- [Surviving education as a blind or visually impaired student](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/education-blind-visually-impaired-student/) - This time of year always reminds me of my own journey in education, right from the start of primary school and all the way through to university. I remember the anxious wait for my GCSE and A level results, and the mix of emotions of moving onto the next chapters of my life. I often
- [Education and mental health, are schools doing enough?](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/education-mental-health-schools/) - This post has been created from a private conversation that I had with a good friend of mine who I have known through many years via attending charity organised events. The parent has allowed me to share the discussion and how she feels the education system are not doing enough to support our children in
- [Making Christmas Accessible for Vision Impaired People](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/by-elin/) - Colourful lights blinking in windows, big scarfs curled around us in an attempt to fend off the cold, and the oh so famous songs inviting our attention to an out of tune singalong; it can only mean one thing, the festive season is upon us! This time of year greets us with a cocktail
- [A letter to my younger self](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/letter-to-my-younger-self/) - My name is Charlotte and 36-year-old single mother to two brilliant children aged 10&11. My daughter Scarlett was diagnosed with optic nerve hypoplasia at 4 months old, resulting in her being blind. Fast forward 10 years and 8 months, everything is completely different now. I am completely different. It’s been a process and not one
- [Parents - you need to take care of yourselves!](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/parents-take-care-of-yourselves/) - As parents, taking care of your mental health often gets overlooked. You can become burnt-out, guilty, resentful — often grappling with inner conflict whilst also trying to manage every day life. All of these warring emotions have subsequent impacts on your children; even if they don’t understand exactly what’s going on for you, they’ll know
- [My Daughter Ellie- by Chris Clarke](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/my-daughter-ellie/) - By Chris Clarke Charlotte has asked me to write a little bit about my experiences of being a father of a SVI child. I am Ellie Alice Clark’s Daddy – I think I am known to most people as Ellie’s Dad rather than Chris these days ;-). Ellie is now 5 and we live in
- [MACS- the UK’s national charity for children born without eyes or with underdeveloped eyes.](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/macs/) - MACS started life in 1993 as a small support group run by, and for, parents whose children were born with Anophthalmia, Microphthalmia and/ or Coloboma. These terms mean that the eye/s are missing, or are small and underdeveloped. Approximately 80 to 90 affected children are born in the UK every year and MACS – as
- [Bonding with your blind baby: Little Amber](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/bonding-with-your-blind-baby/) - By Cecily Morrison I do not think we’d be alone in remembering back to those first two years with Ronan and the challenges of trying to figure out what worked for our blind baby. It never seemed to be what was written the books for other babies. While we had lots of smiles, we also
- [Behçet’s disease and the Eye](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/behcets-disease-and-the-eye/) - By Professor Miles Stanford Registered Charity No: 326679 Caring for those with a rare, complex and lifelong disease www.behcets.org.uk How are the eyes affected by Behçet’s disease? Eye involvement in Behçet’s disease has been recognised since the time of Hippocrates. Estimates of the prevalence vary in different countries and may represent differences in the
- [Nuzzlets Farm- Places that go that extra mile](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/nuzzlets-farm/) - By Charlotte Mellor Posted on November 4, 2014 by Charlotte Mellor Environment is key when taking a trip out with a child with additional disabilities. There are no guidelines for environmental factors, each factor is determined by the child and how they respond to the world. I have wrote previously about how different places have affected
- [Bake your own festive Braille biscuits](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/braille-biscuits-recipe/) - I am not really one for baking, but I am certainly one for introducing Braille to my little girl in a creative way. Scarlett is a massive fan of biscuits, it is one of the primary words in her vocabulary. Every day after school she marches in repeating biscuit over and over. So I have
- [Make your own gooey gingerbread slime](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/gingerbread-slime-recipe/) - Here is some festive slime inspiration... with being able to add colours, scents, glitter - whatever takes your fancy, this is a great 5-13 age range project, where you can learn about combining ingredients to make something tangible and sensory! Ingredients: 1 cup Elmer’s White Glue 4 tsp. Saline Contact Solution ¼ cup Water 1 cup Sensitive Shaving
- [Cinnamon scented salt dough decorations](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/cinnamon-salt-dough-recipe/) - Cinnamon Salt Dough Decorations This Christmas favourite may fast become your family’s new tradition! Cinnamon salt dough decorations, with the addition of braille, are a perfect Christmas craft for visually impaired children. The smell, both before and after baking, is incredible! Just make sure everyone in your household knows they aren’t edible – otherwise they
- [How to make Christmas Scented Dough](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/christmas-scented-dough-recipe/) - Make your own simple Christmas scented dough for sensory play fun with the kids! We took a basic play dough recipe and added some wintery additions to make it smell like Christmas. For the dough we mixed: 280g of flour 2 teaspoons each of ground ginger, cinnamon and mixed spice 2 tablespoons of oil 70g
- [Christmas Treasure Basket](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/christmas-treasure-basket-2021/) - [vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”35505″ img_size=”full”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] This wonderful video provided by Gwyn from Positive Eye shows us how to make a festive themed Christmas treasure basket. Christmas is a very sensory time of year with all the exciting textures, smells, sights and sounds. Treasure baskets are used as an effective learning tool by many teachers of visual impaired
- [Accessible gameboard fun for children who have a visual impairment](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/accessible-gameboard-fun-for-children-who-have-a-visual-impairment/) - Board games are a Christmas holiday tradition, gives families the chance to bond and connect with the distinct possibility of some monopoly related tears. Even more than ever board games are going to be a massive part of the holiday season with the restrictions in place, more families are going to be
- [Making a Christmas Sensory Board for a toddler who is visually impaired](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/making-a-christmas-sensory-board-for-a-toddler-who-is-visually-impaired/) - I came across this great idea on social media and thankfully parent Emma Dew, the creator of the sensory board allowed me to use her ideas and pictures for this post! Children who are blind may not independently explore their “regular” environment. Sensory boards concentrate a variety of stimulating items in a small
- [A big virtual Merry Christmas from all of VICTA!  Hope you all have a magical day!](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/a-big-virtual-merry-christmas-from-all-of-victa-hope-you-all-have-a-magical-day/)
- [20 Recommended Apps for Christmas for a person who has a visual impairment- updated 2020 edition](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/25-recommended-apps-for-christmas-for-a-person-who-has-a-visual-impairment-updated-2020-edition/) - With Santa due to land in just a couple of weeks, I expect there will be a lot of electronic devices left under the Christmas Tree! Mobile phones, tablets and voice activated devices have revolutionised the way people who are visually impaired interact and use technology. Here is our list of great
- [What festive fun other charities have to offer!](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/what-other-festive-fun-other-charities-have-to-offer/) - Despite not being able to host face to face events, many charities have pulled out all the stops to try and bring you as much virtual holiday fun as possible! Here is a round up of all the fabulous things that are on offer! RSBC have moved online! See below for our range of virtual
- [New Elf on the Shelf ideas for 2020. Christmas fun for children with a vision impairment](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/elf-on-shelf-ideas-vision-impairment/) - [vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”34785″ img_size=”full”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/4″][vc_single_image image=”34771″][/vc_column][vc_column width=”3/4″][vc_empty_space][vc_column_text] He’s back! The Elf on the Shelf is getting up to his usual mischief, but what could that mischief be? Does your elf need some ideas which are accessible to children with a vision impairment? You’ve come to the right place. We’ve thought of 5 fun new ideas that
- [If Scarlett could write a Christmas List...](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/if-scarlett-could-write-a-christmas-list/) - "Fill your life with experiences and not things"- Unknown Well it's that time of the year again. Whilst considered the most wonderful time of the year by many, the holidays can also be a source of stress, pressure, financial constraints and perhaps a sinking feeling of not being able to do enough for your
- [How to host a virtual interactive Christmas Party from the comfort of your own home!](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/how-to-host-a-virtual-interactive-christmas-party-from-the-comfort-of-your-own-home/) - Recent announcements have stated that three households are allowed to mix indoors for five days over the festive period, this is of course completely up to you are your own families, with many people still opting to just have a one household based Christmas time. With much of the world moving onto online interaction we
- [How to make a Christmas Sensory Tray!](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/christmas-sensory-tray2020/) - Making a Christmas Sensory Tray A Christmas Sensory Tray is a great way for your little one to experience lots of Christmassy items, in a safe, controlled way. Firstly, you need a large tray or box. I had a cardboard tray left over from a food delivery, which was perfect. I just left it as
- [How to make Christmas Scented Dough!](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/christmas-scented-dough-2020/) - Here is how we created some sensory Christmas scented dough. It was surprisingly easy and fun to do with the kids! We took a basic play dough recipe and added some wintery additions to make it smell like Christmas. For the dough we mixed: 280g of flour 2 teaspoons each of ground ginger,
- [5 Things I've Learned from Being Vision Impaired - Elin Williams](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/5-things-ive-learned/) - Our guest blogger Elin Williams returns with 5 things she's learned from being vision impaired. Living with a deteriorating eye condition comes complete with varying feelings and realisations. For me, it’s an experience loaded with anticipation, anxiety, positivity and sometimes pure unknowing of what’s to come. I’ve personally learned a lot from being vision impaired.
- [Encouraging Independence - Young Adult's Voice](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/encouraging-independence/) - Encouraging Independence, By Holly Tuke Independence. It’s a word that can fill you with many emotions. Determination, a sense of belief, positivity, excitement, fear, anxiety and worry. The word ‘independence’ means something different to everyone. Whether it is making a hot drink for the first time, cooking a meal, learning to use a long cane,
- [Children's Mental Health week - Young Adult's Voice](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/childrens-mental-health-week/) - By Elin Williams I’m Elin, the writer behind the blog, My Blurred World. I’ve been living with a condition called Retinitis Pigmentosa since I was three years old. I’m so excited to have the opportunity to regularly share my experiences with you on the VICTA Parent Portal. I know my parents would have found a
- [Parent Network Events](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/parent-network-events/) - [vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] One aspect of the VICTA Parent Network is to empower parents to organise events in their area for other parents or families. At the end of 2019, two parents made the most of this offer and hosted two fantastic events. Louise Louise planned a weekend extravaganza in Edinburgh with the families of two other
- [Christmas Spinner – Festive game for your child who is visually impaired and the whole family](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/christmas-spinner/) - [vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”33776″ img_size=”full” alignment=”right”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”2/3″][vc_column_text] By Gwyn McCormack from Positive Eye Nothing says Christmas more than fun filled family nights around the dining table playing board games. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/3″][vc_single_image image=”33792″ img_size=”full” alignment=”right”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] In this video, Gwyn from Positive Eye demonstrates how we can easily adapt a Lazy Sue to create a festive themed game. The
- [Cinnamon Salt Dough](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/cinnamon-salt-dough/) - [vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”33776″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] Cinnamon Salt Dough Decorations This Christmas favourite may fast become your family’s new tradition! Cinnamon salt dough decorations, with the addition of braille, are a perfect Christmas craft for visually impaired children. The smell, both before and after baking, is incredible! Just make sure everyone in your household knows they aren’t
- [12 Recommended Apps for Christmas](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/12-recommended-apps-for-christmas/) - With Santa due to land in just a couple of weeks, I expect there will be a lot of electronic devices left under the Christmas Tree! Mobile phones, tablets and voice activated devices have revolutionised the way people who are visually impaired interact and use technology. Here is our list of great apps to download
- [Christmas Hanger, how to encourage festive learning](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/christmas-hanger/) - [vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] By Gwyneth McCormack from Positive Eye In this video by Gwyn from Positive Eye she demonstrates to us how a Ikea hanger can be quickly and easily adapted to encourage learning, and how a festive theme can be added to help children develop the concept of Christmas. Positive Eye provides educational consultancy and
- [Christmas competition - Decorate our Tree for Treats!](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/christmas-competition/) - [vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”33639″ img_size=”full”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] *Sorry this competition is now closed. Please stay tuned for the decorations and winners.* We look forward to this time of year in the VICTA office! We are pleased to announce that our Christmas decoration competition is back once again for the fourth year running. Children from 0 to 17 years are
- [Exploring the senses in Bruges](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/exploring-the-senses-in-bruges/) - [vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] Bruges: a sensory experience, by Harriet Smith [/vc_column_text][vc_column_text]I recently went on a short five-day holiday to Bruges with a company called Traveleyes who specialise in holidays for visually impaired people. The way the holidays work is that you travel with a group of both visually impaired and sighted people, where the sighted people act
- [Bullying Information and Advice](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/bullying-information-and-advice/) - If your child is experiencing bullying it can be a very traumatic time not only in their life but also yours. Here is a resource sheet compiling all the useful information from across the world wide web that may be of assistance to you when thinking how to tackle such a sensitive subject. Young peoples
- [Explaining things to a child who is blind and has mixed receptive-expressive language issues](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/explaining-things/) - By Charlotte Mellor A recent conversation with a friend with regards to his daughter’s thumb sucking made me think an awful lot about how I am going to wean Scarlett full time off her dummy. With teeth falling out left right and center and adult ones starting to come through and the desire for me
- [Welcome to the VICTA Parent Portal!](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/welcome-parent-portal/) - Welcome to the VICTA Parent Portal! We are so happy to share this resource with you. We hope it will make a hugely positive impact to your family’s life. The VICTA Parent Portal has been created with you, the parent, fully at the centre. Over the years, we have heard parents describe the endless hours
- [Mia May – Six months on! Update written by her Daddy Nick McDonald](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/mia-may-six-months-on/) - So it’s been over 6 months since I updated my blog post from last year and I have finally found some time to sit down and give you all an update on how things are progressing with Mia and what’s been happening. I am going to start off with covering all the clinical bits and
- [Top Access Tips: Practical Science](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/top-access-tips-practical-science/) - By Gwyneth McCormack This post provided by Gwyneth McCormack from Positive Eye, a UK based Educational and Training Consultancy for professionals who work with children with a visual impairment. Gwyn's Top Tips! Use contrasting equipment in bright colours where possible. Use bright colour paint to highlight the edges of equipment. A set of scratch free
- [Visiting London with a visually impaired child](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/visiting-london-with-a-visually-impaired-child/) - By Charlotte Mellor London, the United Kingdom’s capital. The largest city in the UK covering 607 square miles and home to 8.63 million people and seeped in attractions and great things to see – there is never a dull moment. With its bustling city streets London is the home of many of the UK’s major
- [Taking a blind child to a music festival - Accessible top tips](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/taking-a-blind-child-to-a-music-festival/) - By Charlotte Mellor We kicked off our summer holidays by being ambitious! Attempting to attend a mainstream medium sized festival. Kendal Calling, based in the Lake District is a family orientated music festival that has been running for 11 years. Aimed in particular at families and only being an hour and forty five minute drive
- [Fostering positivity and confidence in your blind child – By Holly Scott Gardner](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/fostering-positivity-and-confidence-in-your-blind-child/) - I didn’t realise that blind people weren’t supposed to do things for a very long time. I grew up playing football, fighting my sister and reading all the books I could get my hands on. My childhood, although not perfect, was painfully ordinary in many ways. My blindness was never viewed by my parents as
- [Imogen and her magical cane](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/imogen-and-her-magical-cane/) - By Emily McMillan o celebrate World Book Day we wanted to share with you this beautiful book written by Imogen James, one of the winners of the ‘It’s your story’ competition with Access2books. Imogen’s magical story about a little girl who finds magic in the world through her rainbow spreading cane called ‘snowball’ has now
- [To fight or not to fight - That is the question](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/to-fight-or-not-to-fight/) - By Christina Beeston When things in life become tough, you have to make decisions that will create a huge impact on your life or on the lives of your children. As parents doing the right thing is so important, when you have a child that is capable of helping with those decisions it can make
- [Why I choose to write about my visually impaired daughter on the Internet](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/why-i-write-about-my-visually-impaired-daughter/) - By Charlotte Mellor This subject has been fiercely debated online, I have seen many parents clash with young visually impaired people about the rights and wrongs of this subject and I have read some really strong and valid points on both sides of the fence. I have tended to stay away from discussing this on
- [The Frustration of Scarlett's Frustration](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/the-frustration-of-scarletts-frustration/) - In psychology frustration is a common emotional response to opposition. Related to anger, disappointment and annoyance, frustration arises from the perceived resistance to the fulfilment of an individual’s will or goal and is likely to increase when a person’s will or goal is blocked. This half-term holiday has highlighted Scarlett’s frustrations to me and when
- [World Poetry Day - I give you my eyes, a poem for Scarlett](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/world-poetry-day-i-give-you-my-eyes/) - By Charlotte Mellor I give you my eyes, But it is you that helps me to see. I give you my eyes, But it is you who fully appreciates the tree. I give you my eyes, But it is you who can feel beauty in a way I’ll never understand. I give you my eyes,
- [Where I think you can stick your pity!](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/pity/) - By Charlotte Mellor Pity… Now this is a particularly important theme that runs through parents of children who are visually impaired lives, being offered unwanted pity. This subject has been discussed many a time on a variety of websites so I thought it was about time that I shared my viewpoint on this matter. Now
- [British Wireless for the Blind Fund- Keeping blind people in touch with the world](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/british-wireless-for-the-blind/) - Visually impaired children can benefit from audio equipment which has been specially adapted for easier use by those with sight loss. National charity British Wireless for the Blind Fund (BWBF) provides a range of radios on free loan to visually impaired people who meet its criteria. Recipients need to be over the age of eight,
- [The Newest Part of Team (Demo)](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/the-newest-part-of-team-2/) - Lorem Ipsum. Proin gravida nibh vel velit auctor aliquet. Aenean sollicitudin, lorem quis bibendum auctor, nisi elit consequat ipsum, nec sagittis sem nibh id elit. Duis sed odio sit amet nibh vulputate cursus a sit amet mauris.

## Pages

- [Welcome to the VICTA Parent Portal](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/) - Welcome to the VICTA Parent Portal – together we can help navigate life as parents of children who have a vision impairment. understanding sleep & how VICTA can support you Sign up for VICTA’s Sleep Service consultation VICTA Parent Workshop – Understanding Your Child’s World: ADHD and Vision Impairment Made PracticalOnlineLatest stories on the blog
- [Specialist Sleep Service - Information and Sign Up](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/sleep-service/) - Sleep and your VI childSpecialist Sleep ServiceInformation and how to sign upVICTA’s Specialist Sleep Service offers practical support and advice for the parents and carers of children and young people aged 2-17 years with sight loss who are experiencing disturbances with sleep and/or their bedtime routine. VICTA’s Specialist Sleep Service offers practical support and advice
- [Parent Network](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/parent-network/) - Join the Parent NetworkYour safe space to ask questions and seek advice on topics related to parenting a vision impaired childThe VICTA Parent Network We’ve heard time and time again how the best advice has come from another parent, or how the Family Weekends we host give parents a chance to discuss issues and create
- [Sleep and your VI Child](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/vi-child-sleep/) - Sleep and your VI ChildUnderstanding sleep and VICTA’s Sleep ServiceImproving people’s lives through better sleep. Improving people’s lives through better sleep.In order to improve sleep, it is important to understand the many things that affect the quality of a night’s sleep. Once these are recognised, it is possible to take a problem-solving approach and make
- [Chiffon scarf play ideas](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/chiffon-scarf/) - Early Years – World of playChiffon scarf play ideasChiffon scarves are a highly versatile must have item which can be used to create simple games that can help to develop both gross and fine motor skills, as well as hand eye co-ordination and the development of the sense of touch.Chiffon scarves are a highly versatile
- [Exercise ball activities](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/exercise-ball/) - Early Years – World of PlayExercise ball activitiesExercise balls are a staple for any sensory play that involves movement. They are very versatile and can be deflated and taken with you wherever you go! If you have received a Sensory Discovery Pack you will find an inflatable ball included in your pack. For younger babies
- [Where to source tactile books](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/source-tactile-books/) - Early Years – LiteracyWhere to source books for VI childrenWhether you are looking for braille, large print or tactile books to share with your vision impaired child, you’ll find useful links on where to source them below.ClearVision clearvisionproject.org ClearVision is a postal lending library of children’s books designed to be shared by visually impaired and
- [Early Years Sensory Discovery Pack](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/early-years-sensory-pack/) - Early YearsOrder your Early Years Sensory Discovery PackStart discovering together…We know it can be overwhelming knowing where to begin and how best to support your little one’s development through play and precious one-on-one time. Our Sensory Discovery Packs are filled with items to help you explore the different senses with your child and get off
- [National and local charities](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/charities/) - SupportNational and local charitiesWe have compiled a list of sight loss charities from across the UK who may be able to help you in a variety of ways.We have compiled a list of sight loss charities from across the UK who may be able to help you in a variety of ways. We would also
- [Cookie Policy](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/cookie-policy/) - This page provides comprehensive information about how we use cookies on our website to enhance your browsing experience, improve website performance, and deliver personalized content. Cookies are small text files that are stored on your device when you visit our site. They help us understand how visitors interact with our website, allowing us to offer
- [Privacy Policy](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/privacy-policy/) - Privacy Statement VICTA Children Ltd is committed to protecting your privacy and maintaining the security of any personal information received from you. We strictly adhere to the requirements of the data protection legislation in the UK. The purpose of this statement is to explain to you what personal information we collect and how we may
- [Toys to expand your world of sensory play](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/toys-sensory-play/) - Early Years – World of playToys to expand your world of sensory playIf you are looking for toys for your visually impaired child to enjoy, we have compiled this helpful directory. These toys help explore the different senses and we have included lots of ‘parent favourites’ that VICTA parents are recommended after playing with them
- [Education](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/education/) - EducationGetting the best for your child throughout their educationLatest stories on the blog Charlotte Mellor2025-10-07T10:00:01+00:00Marvin’s Story Time Show- for VI and complex needs childrenCharlotte Mellor2025-10-07T10:00:01+00:00October 7, 2025|Education, Literacy, Positive Eye|Charlotte Mellor2026-01-08T15:23:36+00:00Exhaustion, advocacy, and overwhelming love: Starting School as a VI familyCharlotte Mellor2026-01-08T15:23:36+00:00August 28, 2025|Advice for parents, Education, Stories|Emily McMillan2024-03-11T13:41:38+00:00Introducing Kitchen Tales – A cookbook for
- [Processing diagnosis as parents](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/diagnosis-parents/) - Early YearsProcessing the news of diagnosis as parentsFinding out your child has a vision impairment can come as a big shock. How you process this information will be unique to you but it is natural to feel a whole host of huge emotions. However you respond emotionally, it’s important to take a minute and think
- [movement and balance](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/movement-balance/) - Early YearsWorld of play – movement and balanceOur movement and balance section explores the ‘vestibular’ sense and why it’s so important to explore with your blind or partially sighted child.Our movement and balance section explores the ‘vestibular’ sense and why it’s so important to explore with your blind or partially sighted child. In your Sensory
- [sound](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/sound/) - Early YearsWorld of play – soundMusic and sound is fully accessible and fun for a vision impaired child! Playing with sound stimulates the brain and sets them up to be great future learners.Music and sound is fully accessible and fun for a vision impaired child! Playing with sound stimulates the brain and sets them up
- [Exploring literacy](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/exploring-literacy/) - Early YearsExploring literacyDiscover the world of stories with your child!Reading together is a really important activity to do with your child. When they have a vision impairment, it may feel like a barrier to what may seem like a visual activity, but the real magic of reading is in the imagination, the descriptions, the vocabulary
- [Stories to read with your sensory pack](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/sensory-stories/) - Early Years – LiteracyStories to read with your Sensory Discovery PackThere are so many uses for the items found in your Sensory Discovery Pack. Using them to help bring story time to life with your vision impaired child brings another dimension to the items. If you don’t have a pack, just look around the house
- [Fibre optic lamp play](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/fibre-optic-play/) - Early Years – World of playFibre optic funFibre optic lights are a staple in many sensory rooms. If your child is partially sighted, using these types of lights in their environment is a great way to stimulate what useful sight they do have.Fibre optic lights are a staple in many sensory rooms. If your child
- [light](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/light/) - Early YearsWorld of play – lightWhen you think ‘vision impairment’ you may not instantly think of light-up toys for your child but don’t discount them! Find out why they are important for partially sighted children and how the items in our Sensory Discovery Pack can be enjoyed even if your child has no useful sight.When
- [Space blanket play ideas](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/space-blanket/) - Early Years – World of PlaySpace blanket play ideasThe space blanket is a staple sensory resource in many play sessions. It works particularly well for children who have a visual impairment as it provides a rewarding crinkly noise when you touch it!The space blanket is a staple sensory resource in many play sessions. It works
- [Tactile sensory play](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tactile-sensory-play/) - Early Years – World of playTactile sensory play for vision impaired childrenThank you to the MK Sensory Team at St Paul’s Catholic School for their help in compiling these sensory play ideas for you to enjoy with your child. Start exploring the tactile world through these fun activities, just please remember to do all of
- [touch](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/touch/) - Early YearsWorld of play – touchThere are so many educational and developmental benefits to be had from playing with tactile toys or engaging in tactile sensory play. Discover the why and the how with our introductory video and information. Find out how to use your Early Years Sensory Discovery Pack, or build your own to
- [Professional applications for the Early Years Sensory Discovery Pack](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/professionals-sensory-discovery-pack/) - Early YearsProfessional applications for the Early Years Sensory Discovery PackThank you for your interest in applying for a pack for your organisation to share We are delighted that in your professional capacity, you would like to apply for a VICTA Early Years Sensory Discovery Pack to share with the young children and parents you work
- [Early Years](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/early-years/) - Early yearsEarly yearsFrom diagnosis to preparing for school, we’re here to help you get the best for your vision impaired child from the startOrder yourEarly Years Sensory Discovery PackStart discovering…We know it can be overwhelming knowing where to begin and how best to support your little one’s development through play and precious one-on-one time. Our
- [Who's who for parents of a vision impaired child](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/whos-who/) - Who’s who?Professionals supporting your VI child GP or Family Doctor Your family doctor (also known as a GP or General Practitioner) is associated with the general health of your child and can advise and arrange further examinations. They will often make referrals on your behalf and should be the first port of call if you
- [Registering your VI child](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/registering-vi-child/) - Registering your VI childIs it right for your family?Related stories Charlotte Mellor2026-02-25T14:42:01+00:00Indiana: More than her diagnosisCharlotte Mellor2026-02-25T14:42:01+00:00February 25, 2026|Advice for parents, Stories|Charlotte Mellor2026-02-25T12:40:06+00:00The baby we fought to protectCharlotte Mellor2026-02-25T12:40:06+00:00February 24, 2026|Advice for parents, Stories|Charlotte Mellor2026-02-04T11:14:46+00:00Introducing VICTA Parent Voice: A new podcast for parentsCharlotte Mellor2026-02-04T11:14:46+00:00January 29, 2026|Parent information, Podcast, Stories|Charlotte Mellor2026-01-26T11:30:42+00:00Growing Our Family: Not the Journey
- [The world of play!](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/play/) - Early YearsThe world of play!Children are always learning while they play. It’s a great way for you to help their development while having fun together.Children are always learning while they play. It’s a great way for you to help their development while having fun together. To get you started, we’ve put together ideas, tips and
- [Be in the VI know](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/vi-know/) - Be in the VI knowUnderstand the ins and outs of vision impairment and discover opportunities waiting for your childCharlotte Mellor2025-09-17T10:33:23+00:00Mum on the run! The blindfolded fundraising challengeCharlotte Mellor2025-09-17T10:33:23+00:00September 17, 2025|Achievements, Advice for parents, Parent stories|Emily McMillan2023-12-20T14:12:21+00:00Blog Factor achievements – football and driving blind!Emily McMillan2023-12-20T14:12:21+00:00December 20, 2023|Achievements, Stories, The Blog Factor|Charlotte Mellor2023-12-19T12:42:05+00:00My achievements this year!Charlotte Mellor2023-12-19T12:42:05+00:00December
- [Albinism - Information and Support](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/albinism-information-and-support/) - Eye ConditionsAlbinism – Information and SupportAlbinism is a hereditary condition in which the body produces little or no melanin, the pigment that gives colour to the skin and hair, people with the condition commonly have lighter coloured skin and hair. Vision problems are prevalent with albinism.How does Albinism affect sight? Albinism can affect sight in
- [Eye conditions](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/eye-conditions/) - VI knowUnderstanding eye conditionsEvery child’s vision impairment is unique to them, there are a breadth of conditions and circumstances that can cause sight loss and within that varying effects on what useful vision an individual may have. Learning more about your child’s specific condition can help you know what to expect and prepare to support
- [Specialist VI schools and colleges](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/specialist-vi-schools-colleges/) - Education – Schools and collegesSpecialist VI schools and collegesEngland Exhall Grange Specialist School Location: Coventry 024 7636 4200 info@exhallgrange.co.uk www.exhallgrange.co.uk Day only Age 2 – 19 InFocus Charity Location: Exeter 01392 45 42 00 enquiries@infocus-charity.org.uk infocus-charity.org.uk Day and residential Age 16 – 25 Joseph Clarke School Location: London 020 8523 4833 school@josephclarke.waltham.sch.uk www.whitefield.org.uk/jc Day only
- [Stories](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/stories/) - Your storiesRead, share and discover!Charlotte Mellor2026-02-25T14:42:01+00:00Indiana: More than her diagnosisCharlotte Mellor2026-02-25T12:40:06+00:00The baby we fought to protectCharlotte Mellor2026-02-04T11:14:46+00:00Introducing VICTA Parent Voice: A new podcast for parentsCharlotte Mellor2026-01-26T11:30:42+00:00Growing Our Family: Not the Journey We Planned, But the One We NeededBrowse by category… Young person’s voice Charlotte Mellor2024-06-25T13:44:44+00:00AbleNet – Exhilarating experiences for vision impaired peopleCharlotte Mellor2024-04-03T09:14:04+00:00Sleep issues and
- [Charles Bonnet Syndrome- Information and support](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/charles-bonnet-syndrome-info-support/) - Eye ConditionsCharles Bonnet Syndrome- Information and SupportCharles Bonnet Syndrome, which can also be known as CBS or visual release hallucinations is a type of psychophysical visual disturbance in which a person with a visual impairment, either severely or partially experiences visual hallucinations.How does Charles Bonnet syndrome affect you? CBS hallucinations are caused by sight loss.
- [Retinitis Pigmentosa - Information and Support](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/retinitis-pigmentosa-information-and-support/) - Eye ConditionsRetinitis Pigmentosa – Information and SupportRetinitis Pigmentosa is a disease that affects the retina. It is a type of retinal dystrophy and a genetic condition. It affects the retina at the back of the eye, which is the structure responsible for processing light. As the cells affected, begin to stop working, that causes the
- [Optic Nerve Hypoplasia- Information and Support](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/onh-information-and-support/) - Eye ConditionsOptic Nerve Hypoplasia – Information and SupportOptic Nerve Hypoplasia (ONH) is a complex congenital condition associated with moderate to severe vision loss. Whether your child is newly diagnosed or has been living with Optic Nerve Hypoplasia for a long time, understanding your options will help you find information and support and enhance their quality
- [Aniridia - Information and Support](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/aniridia-information-and-support-2/) - Eye ConditionsAniridia – Information and SupportAniridia is a congenital rare genetic eye disorder defined by the complete or partial absence of the iris. The iris is the muscular structure within the eye that is responsible for opening and closing the pupil, this movement allows light into the eye. It also determines the persons for eye
- [Alstrom Syndrome - Information and Support](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/alstrom-syndrome-information-support/) - Eye ConditionsAlstrom Syndrome – Information and SupportAlström Syndrome is a rare recessively inherited genetic condition, both parents need to carry the gene to affect the child, although probably be unaffected themselves. The condition affects many body systems. Symptoms develop gradually and can be variable. In childhood, the disorder is generally characterized by vision and hearing
- [Sensory rooms](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/sensory-room/) - Early Years – World of playSensory RoomsSensory rooms are a great place to start when getting to know which sorts of toys your child responds well to. A visit together can be a calming and fun addition to your routine and they aren’t all expensive to visit. We’ve compiled this list to help you find
- [Sensory Discovery Pack for the Complex Needs Workshop](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/sensory-pack-complex-needs/) - Early YearsSensory Discovery Pack for parents attending the complex needs play workshopApply for your pack ahead of our Parent Workshop – Sensory Play Discovery for Children with Complex Needs With My Time to Play, Guide Dogs VICTA’s Early Years Sensory Discovery Packs are available for vision impaired children aged 0 to 4 years. To support
- [Join our events](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/events/) - Join our eventsThe VICTA Parent Network runs online workshops and activities aimed at supporting parents of a vision impaired child VICTA Parent Workshop – Understanding Your Child’s World: ADHD and Vision Impairment Made PracticalDates: 24 February 2026, 7.30pm Location: Online - Zoom Who: Parents of a child who is visually impaired Apply now Now closed for
- [Dark den play ideas](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/dark-dens/) - Early Years – World of PlayDark dens for vision impaired childrenDark dens are the perfect place to engage in light play with your child. They block out all the natural light which in turn increases the brightness and calms the surroundings and helps your child to focus on the activity. Dark dens are the perfect
- [Sensory processing disorder](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/sensory-processing-disorder/) - Early Years – World of PlaySensory Processing DisorderWhile exploring the play ideas in this section, you’ll find we talk a lot about taking into consideration whether your child is a sensory seeker or avoider. Find out a bit more about what this means with a brief look into Sensory Processing Disorder.While exploring the play ideas
- [Nystagmus - Information and Support](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/nystagmus-info-support/) - Eye ConditionsNystagmus – Information and SupportNystagmus affects people in varying degrees and finding effective help and support is essential to managing symptoms and improving well-being. Whether your child is newly diagnosed or has been living with Nystagmus for a long time, understanding your options will help you find information and support and enhance their quality
- [Stargardt Disease - Information and Support](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/stargardt-disease-information-support/) - Eye ConditionsStargardt Disease – Information and SupportStargardt disease effects the eyes and causes vision loss in children and young adults. Stargardt disease is the most common inherited single-gene retinal disease. It mainly affects your macula, the light-sensitive layer at the back of your eye which is a part of your retina. How does Stargardt disease
- [Guide Dogs - Information and Support](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/guide-dogs-information-and-support/) - SupportGuide Dogs – Information and SupportGuide Dogs are specially trained dogs who aid visually impaired people. They can assist with navigating around obstacles, improve safety in public spaces, finding shop entrances and kerbs, locate crossings. Also referred to as service dogs, they offer a life line to many blind people.Guide Dogs for the Blind Guide
- [Parent Feedback Panel - Early Years Sensory Discover Pack](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/sensory-parent-feedback/) - Early Years Sensory Discovery PackParent Sensory Pack FeedbackThank you for agreeing to be share your parent feedback We hope your Sensory Discovery Pack has been a useful addition to playtime with your child. Your feedback is important to us, and we are keen to learn about your experiences. Your responses will be instrumental in helping
- [Light-up toy time](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/light-up-toy-time/) - Early Years – World of playLight-up toy timeLight-up toys are a staple in many sensory rooms. If your child is partially sighted, using these types of lights in their environment is a great way to stimulate what useful sight they do have.Light-up toys are a staple in many sensory rooms. If your child is partially
- [Scented sand play](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/scented-sand-play/) - Early Years – World of PlayScented sand playScented magic or kinetic sand has been included in your pack as it’s a really fun way to introduce smell to an early years child and perfect for tactile play. You can mould and sculpt it and it stays in place!Scented magic or kinetic sand has been included
- [Calming lavender activities](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/claming-lavender-activities/) - Early Years – World of PlayCalming lavender activitiesIncluded in the Baby Sensory Discovery Pack you will find either the Childs Farm Lavender & Moon Milk Calming Massage Lotion or the Lavender & Moon Milk Calming Mist. Both have been selected for their scented, calming qualities, encouraging positive associations with sleep.Included in the Baby Sensory Discovery
- [smell](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/smell/) - Early YearsWorld of play – smellOur sense of smell is a great way to learn more about the world, and scented activities are often underutilised. By helping to develop the sense of smell in a child who has a vision impairment, you will be helping them to discover a deeper meaning about their environment.Our sense
- [Support](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/support/) - Support to guide youfind the help you need to support your family and VI childLatest stories on the blog Emily McMillan2024-10-07T14:02:08+00:00VICTA Parent Services Awarded in the Parent & Baby Awards 2024Emily McMillan2024-10-07T14:02:08+00:00October 7, 2024|Celebrations, Charities and organisations, Stories|Emily McMillan2024-03-11T13:41:38+00:00Introducing Kitchen Tales – A cookbook for children with low visionEmily McMillan2024-03-11T13:41:38+00:00March 11, 2024|Charities and organisations, Cooking,
- [Mainstream secondary schools with a VI base](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/secondary-schools-vi-base/) - Education – Schools and collegesMainstream secondary schools with a VI baseNorth of England Sharples School Location: Bolton 01204 333 253 office@sharplesschool.co.uk www.sharplesschool.co.uk Moor End Academy Location: Huddersfield 01484 222230 office@edu.moorend.org www.moorend.org Gateacre School Location: Liverpool 0151 235 1400 admin@gateacre.org www.gateacre.org The Kings Academy Location: Middlesborough 01642 577 577 enquiries@thekingsacademy.org.uk www.thekingsacademy.org.uk Tapton School Location: Sheffield 0114
- [Mainstream primary schools with a VI base](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/mainstream-primary-schools-vi/) - Education – Schools and collegesMainstream primary schools with a VI basePrimary schools North of England Sharples Primary School & Nursery Location: Bolton 01204 333077 office@sharples-pri.bolton.sch.uk www.sharples-pri.bolton.sch.uk Dalton School Location: Huddersfield 01484 538729 office.dalton@kirkleeseducation.uk www.daltonschool.co.uk Sunnyside Primary School Location: Middlesborough 01642 596 422 admin@sunnysideprimaryacademy.org www.sunnysideprimaryacademy.org Preston Primary School Location: Stockton on Tees 01642 789 312 enquiries@prestonprimary.co.uk
- [Light up spiky ball play](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/light-up-spiky-ball/) - Early Years – World of playLight-up spiky ball playThis small ball may seem very simple but it is a particularly versatile bit of play kit for children with a vision impairment.This small ball may seem very simple but it is a particularly versatile bit of play kit for children with a vision impairment. Why use
- [VI blogs and social media](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/vi-blogs/) - SupportVI blogs and social mediaIt can really help to connect and share with others navigating the world of sight loss. We’ve gathered together some must read accounts from young people who have a vision impairment themselves or parents with a blind or partially sighted child. It can really help to connect and share with others
- [Mobility support](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/mobility-support/) - SupportMobility supportEarly intervention for developing mobility skills for your child so that they can learn to navigate the world safely and independently is key. Early intervention for developing mobility skills for your child so that they can learn to navigate the world safely and independently is key. Depending on the extent of their sight loss
- [Discounts and reductions](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/discounts-reductions/) - Support – Financial SupportDiscounts and reductionsFind out what discounts your family could be eligible to make use of.Find out what discounts your family could be eligible to make use of. For many of the items in this list you may need to be registered. Find out more about registering your child’s vision impairment here. Television
- [Information on grants](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/grants/) - Support – Financial SupportInformation on grantsOrganisations who can help with additional costs you may encounter when meeting your VI child’s needs.Organisations who can help with additional costs you may encounter when meeting your VI child’s needs. Family Fund www.familyfund.org.uk Family Fund is the UK’s largest charity providing grants for families raising disabled or seriously ill
- [Government benefits](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/government-benefits/) - Support – Financial supportGovernment benefitsThere are a range of benefits available to parents who have a child with a vision impairment, or to the young person directly once they reach 16. There are a range of benefits available to parents who have a child with a vision impairment, or to the young person directly once
- [Family support](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/family-support/) - SupportFamily supportOrganisations that can support you and your family so that you don’t have to face challenges on your own. Organisations that can support you and your family so that you don’t have to face challenges on your own.These organisations can offer the additional care and advice needed for you to become the best parent
- [Who else can help](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/who-can-help/) - Who else can helpOrganisations supporting you and your VI child Guide Dogs Family Support Team www.guidedogs.org.uk/services-we-provide/family-support Guide Dogs Family Support team gives the families of children with a vision impairment practical and emotional support, advice and information. They can also advise and work with other professionals and organisations. The Family Support Team offer independent advice
- [Online education resources](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/online-vi-education-resources/) - EducationOnline education resourcesOur shortlist of the most helpful education websites out there Audible Audible is Amazon’s subscription service for audio books. stories.audible.com/start-listen CustomEyes Books www.guidedogs.org.uk/services-we-provide/customeyes-books This service, provided by Guide Dogs, produces custom-made large print books books to suit your specific requirements, by tailoring the font type, size, spacing, colour and binding. National Braille Week
- [Organisations supporting you through the education process](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/organisations-supporting-education/) - EducationHelpful organisations that can support you through the education processIPSEA www.ipsea.org.uk Independent Provider of Special Education Advice (known as IPSEA) offers free and independent legally based information, advice and support. Its aim is to help get the right education for children and young people with all kinds of special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). IPSEA
- [How to build a story bag](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/how-to-story-bag/) - Early Years – LiteracyHow to build a story bagIf your child is blind or partially sighted, story bags, sacks or boxes are an important tool when it comes to adding meaning to the story and engaging your child in the activity.What is a story bag? Story bags sit alongside your child’s book and contain tactile
- [Edible sensory play](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/edible-sensory-play/) - Early Years – World of PlayEdible sensory playThe sense of taste will be extra important for your visually impaired child and when they can’t rely on their vision, they may use their mouths to explore for longer. These taste safe activities will allow them to do just that while they play and explore.The sense of
- [taste](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/taste/) - Early YearsWorld of play – tasteTaste and smell go hand-in-hand. They are not often thought of as significant senses when gathering information about our surroundings, but they play a really important role – even more so for a child with a vision impairment. It’s time to put your sense of taste to the test!Taste and
- [Nature](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/nature/) - VI know – Find your child’s adventureNatureWays to help your child explore their curiosity for the world around them and discover how they can make a difference. Ways to help your child explore their curiosity for the world around them and discover how they can make a difference.John Muir Environmental Award victa.org.uk/our-services/earn-award/john-muir Connect with nature
- [Leadership and Self-Advocacy](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/self-advocacy/) - VI know – Find your child’s adventureLeadership and Self-AdvocacyThere are lots of ways you can help to empower your child to learn to use their voice to communicate and negotiate their own needs as they grow up. There are lots of ways you can help to empower your child to learn to use their voice
- [Dance and drama](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/dance-drama/) - VI know – Find your child’s adventureDance and dramaA vision impairment shouldn’t be a barrier to your child’s involvement in performing arts. There are a range of organisations seeking to make dance and drama accessible for people with a vision impairment. A vision impairment shouldn’t be a barrier to your child’s involvement in performing arts.
- [Music](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/music/) - VI know – Find your child’s adventureMusicThere are a variety of organisations and charities that can help introduce music to your child or offer help and advice on adapting sheet music. There are a variety of organisations and charities that can help introduce music to your child or offer help and advice on adapting sheet
- [Arts and crafts](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/arts-crafts/) - VI know – Find your child’s adventureArts and craftsOur list of key resources will assist you in making arts and crafts enjoyable and meaningful for your visually impaired child. Our list of key resources will assist you in making arts and crafts enjoyable and meaningful for your visually impaired child.RNIB www.rnib.org.uk/information-everyday-living-home-and-leisure-leisure-activities-and-sports/arts-and-crafts The RNIB have a
- [Sports](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/sports/) - VI know – Find your child’s adventureSportsSport can aid both your child’s physical and mental health, find out all the organisations you need to know about and the range of sports on offer!Sport can aid both your child’s physical and mental health, find out all the organisations you need to know about and the range
- [VICTA Activities](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/victa-activities/) - VI know – Find your child’s adventureVICTA ActivitiesVICTA organises activities designed to instil confidence, promote independence and build social networks to share information and reduce isolation. From our early years day to international adventures for young adults, our activities help the families and young people we support grow and gain valuable life experiences.VICTA organises activities
- [Financial support](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/financial-support/) - SupportFinancial supportFinding out about your entitlements and financial support opportunities can be difficult, please use this comprehensive guide to help. Finding out about your entitlements and financial support opportunities can be difficult, please use this comprehensive guide to help.Government benefitsVisitInformation on grantsVisitDiscounts and reductionsVisitAdd your details If your organisation is not yet included on our
- [SEND tribunal appeals – an overview](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/send-tribunal-appeals/) - Education – EHCPsSEND tribunal appeals – an overviewThe following details appeals that can be made, tribunal powers and timescales you should follow. The following details appeals that can be made, tribunal powers and timescales you should follow.This information has been compiled by VICTA Trustee Gurvinder Kaur, a Solicitor in the area of Special Educational Needs Law. Appeals
- [EHCPs – Getting an EHCP timeline](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/ehcp-timeline/) - Education – EHCPsEHCP – Getting an EHCP timelineThe following table is designed to give you a timeline how your EHCP could be expected to progress. Track what steps you can expect week by week. The following table is designed to give you a timeline how your EHCP could be expected to progress. Track what steps
- [EHCPs – What's in it?](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/whats-in-ehcp/) - Education – EHCPsEHCP – What’s in it?The content of an EHCP We’ve laid out the content of an Educational Health Care Plan to help you better understand them. The content of an EHCPWe’ve laid out the content of an Educational Health Care Plan to help you better understand them. This information has been compiled by
- [EHCPs – Education Health Care Needs Assessment](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/ehcp-education-health-care-needs-assessment/) - Education – EHCPsEducation Health Care Needs AssessmentWhat is an Education Health Care Needs Assessment? Local Authorities have a legal duty to assess a child or young person’s education, health and care needs where they may have special educational needs (SEN) and they may need special educational provision to be made for them at a level
- [Education, Health & Care Plans](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/ehcp/) - EducationEducation, Health & Care PlansHow to get support for your child’s visual impairment in the school setting Some children and young people with a visual impairment may need more support than others to achieve their full learning potential in education. Local Authorities and some educational settings have a legal duty to support children and young
- [Schools & colleges](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/schools-colleges/) - EducationSchools & collegesWe have compiled a comprehensive list of schools and colleges across the country to help you find the best placement for your child.We have compiled a comprehensive list of schools and colleges across the country to help you find the best placement for your child. Mainstream primary schools with a VI Resource BaseVisitMainstream
- [Taste games](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/taste-games/) - Early Years – World of PlayMake your own taste gamesMaking tasting fun early on can help your child be in tune with their sense of taste and enjoy exploring different flavours. Here are a few games ideas to make tasting lots of fun.Making tasting fun early on can help your child be in tune with
- [Recipes for scented and taste play](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/recipes-scented-taste-play/) - Early Years – World of PlayRecipes safe for scented and taste playScented play doesn’t have to be expensive, mix your own with these recipe ideas!Scented play doesn’t have to be expensive, mix your own with these recipe ideas! Scented play recipes Summer scented paint at nurturestore.co.uk/how-to-make-scented-paint-summer Spice paint at nurturestore.co.uk/homemade-paint-recipe-messy-play Vanilla scented ice cream play
- [Scented sensory play](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/scented-sensory-play/) - Early Years – World of PlayScented sensory playSensory and messy play go perfectly with the sense of smell! We’ve included some ideas to get you started and lots of links to blogs sharing even more scented fun for you and your vision impaired child to explore.Sensory and messy play go perfectly with the sense of
- [Scented game](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/scented-game/) - Early Years – World of PlayMake your own scented gameHelp strengthen your child’s ability to discriminate between smells while having fun! This is a great alternative to visual matching games for a vision impaired child to enjoy.Help strengthen your child’s ability to discriminate between smells while having fun! This is a great alternative to visual
- [Warmies](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/warmies/) - Early Years – World of PlayWarmies® timeWarmies® have been included in our Sensory Discovery Packs because of their warming and scented quality – they bring calm and relaxation in the shape of a cuddly animal friend.Warmies® have been included in our Sensory Discovery Packs because of their warming and scented quality – they bring calm
- [Vestibular play ideas](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/vestibular-play-ideas/) - Early Years – World of PlayVestibular play ideasFind out how to start engaging your child in fun movement and balance activities from a young age and start developing their vestibular sense.Find out how to start engaging your child in fun movement and balance activities from a young age and start developing their vestibular sense. Visit
- [Sensory walks](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/sensory-walks/) - Early Years – World of PlaySensory WalksSound play and exploration isn’t just for the home, listening and identifying sounds while outside is an important skill for a child with a vision impairment.Sound play and exploration isn’t just for the home, listening and identifying sounds while outside is an important skill for a child with a
- [Music and dance](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/music-dance/) - Early Years – World of PlayMusic and danceMusic and dance go hand in hand! Nursey rhymes and songs are packed full of directional language, so your child will not only derive pleasure from the songs, but also master some movement while you are singing.Music and dance go hand in hand! Nursey rhymes and songs are
- [Make your own sound toys](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/make-sound-toys/) - Early Years – World of PlayMake your own sound toysThe internet is full of inspiration for making your own DIY instruments – you can make a sound maker out of just about anything! This could be an inexpensive way of testing out your child’s preference before you invest in buying toys yourself.The internet is full
- [Egg shaker play ideas](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/egg-shaker/) - Early Years – World of PlayEgg shaker play ideasEgg shakers are simple instruments and a perfect first introduction to the world of music for little hands. Once in their hand, little ones intuitively seem to know what to do with them. Once they catch the rhythm, something ‘clicks’ and everything falls into place!Egg shakers are
- [Light box play ideas](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/light-box-play/) - Early Years – World of PlayLight box play ideasAs your child gets older, a great way to improve their ability to explore and investigate items with the assistance of light, is through the use of a light box.As your child gets older, a great way to improve their ability to explore and investigate items with
- [Action songs](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/action-songs/) - Early Years – World of PlayAction songsThroughout our play section you’ll find lots of references to using the sensory play items alongside nursery rhymes and action songs. We’ve included a few with lyrics and links to the music to get you started.Throughout our play section you’ll find lots of references to using the sensory play
- [Pre-braille activities](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/pre-braille-activities/) - Early Years – World of playPre-braille activitiesYour child may potentially be a braille user in later life. The foundation of that skill begins in the early years and is focused around fine motor skills. There are several ‘tasks’ you can help your child to master which inherently tie into pre-braille skills.Your child may potentially be
- [Full body tactile play](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/full-body-tactile-play/) - Early Years – World of playFull body tactile activitiesThe tactile system includes the entire network of skin, including the inside of the mouth. Full body tactile activities are hugely therapeutic for the tactile system and sensory integration. On this page, explore the concept further and consider some of our activity ideas to try with your
- [Top tip sheets from Paths to Literacy](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/literacy-top-tips/) - Early Years – LiteracyTop tip sheets from Paths to LiteracyThank you to Paths to Literacy who have shared these top tip resources with us to help you get the most out of reading with your VI child.10 tips to introduce reading to a young child who is blind or partially sighted By Charlotte Cushman access
- [Tactile discrimination](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tactile-discrimination/) - Early Years – World of PlayWhat is tactile discrimination?The definition of tactile discrimination is the ability to differentiate information through the sense of touch.The definition of tactile discrimination is the ability to differentiate information through the sense of touch. Children with visual impairments will learn to develop this skill to help with a variety of
- [Books representing visual impairment](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/books-representing-vi/) - Early Years – LiteracyBooks that positively represent vision impairmentIt is helpful for children to read and listen to stories where they can connect with characters that also have a vision impairment and represent VI in a positive way.Image from the book ‘Imogen and her Magic Cane’, a story created through a competition run by VICTA
- [Get reading with the BookTrust](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/booktrust/) - Early Years – LiteracyGet reading with the BookTrustThere is so much to explore on the BookTrust website to help you enjoy reading with your child. We’ve picked out some of our favourite links, as well as information on how to receive your free Booktouch pack for children who are blind or partially sighted.Bookstart packs for
- [Find you child's adventure](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/find-adventure/) - VI knowFind your child’s adventureVICTA activitiesFind out more on the VICTA websiteYoung Achievers AwardFind out more on the Student Portal websiteSportsAccessing VI sportsArts and craftsFind out moreMusicFind out moreDrama and danceFind out moreLeadership and self advocacyFind out moreNatureFind out moreVICTA Science FairExplore the fairDuke of Edinburgh’s AwardLearn more on the VICTA websiteArts AwardLearn more on
- [Travel and days out](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/travel-days-out/) - VI knowTravel and days outWhether it’s around the UK or overseas, there are many ways to make travelling more straightforward and accessible to a visually impaired person. From airport assistance to days out at art galleries, our handy guide has got you covered. Train travel National Rail provide a passenger assistance service to give disabled
- [Assistive Technology](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/assistive-technology/) - VI knowAssistive technologyThere is a huge amount of assistive technology available for people living with sight loss to help with everyday living. We have summarised some of the main products below. For more information or to try products you can contact your local sight loss charity (find your local charity on the Visionary website), low vision
- [Fibre optic lamp play](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/fibre-optic-lamp-play/) - Early Years – Let’s PlayFibre optic funFibre optic lights are a staple in many sensory rooms. If your child is partially sighted using these types of lights in their environment is a great way to stimulate what useful sight, they do have.Safety note – never leave child unattended with the fibre optic lamp due to
- [Education Old](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/resources-old/education-old/) - [vc_row full_width=”stretch_row_content_no_spaces” content_placement=”top” css=”.vc_custom_1568374827092{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 0px !important;background-color: #6cbf59 !important;}”][vc_column css=”.vc_custom_1562149251438{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 0px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1562149126623{margin-top: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 3% !important;padding-bottom: 2% !important;}”] EDUCATION [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_section css=”.vc_custom_1560507691814{margin-top: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;}”][vc_row full_width=”stretch_row_content_no_spaces” css_animation=”slideInRight” css=”.vc_custom_1561028944056{margin-top: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px
- [Henshaws & VICTA Manchester VI Early Years Sessions](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/victa-henshaws-early-years/) - [vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”35811″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center”][vc_wp_text]This group is the perfect opportunity for parents of vision impaired children in the 0-4 age range to come together and meet people and children with similar circumstances. The aim of these sessions is to share with parents information about local services, signpost to appropriate support agencies and to create a friendly,
- [VICTA & LOOK UK Parent Advice Workshop](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/victa-look-parent-advice-workshop/) - [vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”35786″ img_size=”full”][vc_wp_text] How to help your vision impaired child feel less isolated and build a sense of belonging When: Tuesday 10 May 2022, 7.30pm Where: Online on Zoom Cost: Free May is mental health awareness month. As part of our support for the parent carer community, on May 10th LOOK UK and VICTA will host a panel-led workshop
- [Children's Mental Health Week](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/childrens-mental-health-week/) - [vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”35728″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] 7 to 13 February is Children’s Mental Health Week and this year’s theme is ‘Growing Together’. ‘Growing Together is about growing emotionally and finding ways to help each other grow. Challenges and setbacks can help us to grow and adapt and trying new things can help us to move beyond our comfort
- [Understanding Teenage Brain Development and Behaviour Workshop](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/understanding-teenage-workshop/) - [vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”32721″ img_size=”full”][vc_wp_text] Understanding Teenage Brain Development and Behaviour Workshop Date: Thursday 10 February 2022 Time: 7.30pm-9.30pm Location: Online via Zoom link Cost: £5 per household, spaces are limited (non-refundable) Who: For parents/guardians of a teenager/pre-teen with a vision impairment Closing date: 1 February 2022 Sorry, this workshop is now closed for applications. VICTA is
- [Early Years - Staying in touch](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/early-years-sign-up/) - If you are the parent of an Early Years child (aged 0 to 4 years) and would like to know more about how VICTA can support you and connect you with other families, we'd love to hear from you! Sign-up via the form below and we will be in touch. [ninja_form id=6]
- [The VICTA parent's Christmas advent activity calendar](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/advent-calendar/) - [vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1638266367937{margin-top: -80px !important;margin-bottom: 80px !important;padding-bottom: 20px !important;background-color: #ddd1bc !important;}”][vc_column][vc_column_text] A little something to enjoy with your family each day this December. If you give the activities a go, we’d love to see them in the comments below or on the VICTA Parent Network Facebook group. Have fun and Merry Christmas from all of us
- [Supporting your child's wellbeing](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/support-old/child-wellbeing/) - [vc_row full_width=”stretch_row_content_no_spaces” content_placement=”top” css=”.vc_custom_1568378687085{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 0px !important;background-color: #8f79ad !important;}”][vc_column css=”.vc_custom_1562160462394{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 0px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1566307589196{margin-top: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 3% !important;padding-bottom: 2% !important;}”] SUPPORT [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row full_width=”stretch_row_content” content_placement=”middle” css=”.vc_custom_1568378245432{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom:
- [Online Cerebral Visual Impairment (CVI) session for parents - mainstream education](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/cvi-session-2/) - [vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”32721″ img_size=”full” css=”.vc_custom_1619099219771{margin-bottom: 20px !important;}”][vc_empty_space][vc_wp_text] When: Wednesday 29 September 2021 at 7.45pm Who: Parents of a child with a Cerebral Visual Impairment (CVI) Location: Online virtual workshop in partnership with Angeleyes NI, Blatchington Court Trust, LOOK UK, Moorvision and VICTA Cost: Free Closing date: Wednesday 15 September 2021 Sorry, this workshop is now closed
- [Online Cerebral Visual Impairment (CVI) session for parents - complex needs](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/cvi-session/) - [vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”32721″ img_size=”full” css=”.vc_custom_1619099219771{margin-bottom: 20px !important;}”][vc_empty_space][vc_wp_text] When: Wednesday 22 September 2021 at 7.45pm Who: Parents of a child with a Cerebral Visual Impairment (CVI) Location: Online virtual workshop in partnership with Angeleyes NI, Blatchington Court Trust, LOOK UK, Moorvision and VICTA Cost: Free Closing date: Wednesday 15 September 2021 Sorry, this workshop is now closed
- [UCAN self advocacy and confidence workshop](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/ucan-confidence-workshop/) - [vc_row][vc_column][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”32721″ img_size=”full” css=”.vc_custom_1619099219771{margin-bottom: 20px !important;}”][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”35180″ img_size=”150px” alignment=”center” css=”.vc_custom_1630408861780{margin-bottom: 20px !important;}”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_empty_space][vc_wp_text] Helping parents instil confidence in their children Sorry, this activity is now closed for applications. When: Thursday 9th of September Time: 7.30pm Where: Zoom Price: Free VICTA are teaming up with UCAN to deliver a workshop which looks at how young
- [Understanding and Managing Your Child’s Anxiety](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/anxiety-workshop/) - [vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”32721″ img_size=”full” css=”.vc_custom_1619099219771{margin-bottom: 20px !important;}”][vc_empty_space][vc_wp_text] When: Tuesday 11 May 2021, 7pm to 9pm Who: Parents of a child or young person with a vision impairment Location: Online virtual workshop Cost: £5 Closing date: Friday 7 May 2021 As part of Mental Health Week, VICTA would like to invite you to the next mental health
- [Virtual Parent Wellbeing Retreat](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/wellbeing-retreat/) - [vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”35009″ img_size=”full”][vc_wp_text title=”Building Resilience in Children and Adolescents”] Virtual Parent Wellbeing Retreat Date: 20 March 2021 Where: Online Who: Parents/carers of a child or young person with a vision impairment The VICTA Parent Portal invites you to the first Virtual Parent Wellbeing Retreat. Join us on Saturday 20 March, the first day of Spring; the perfect time
- [Reading](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/leisure/reading/) - [vc_row full_width=”stretch_row_content_no_spaces” content_placement=”middle” css=”.vc_custom_1568730778902{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 0px !important;background-color: #033074 !important;}”][vc_column css=”.vc_custom_1562242381297{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 0px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1562242392801{margin-top: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 3% !important;padding-bottom: 2% !important;}”] LEISURE [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row full_width=”stretch_row_content” content_placement=”middle” css=”.vc_custom_1568730534889{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom:
- [Travel & days out](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/leisure/travel-days-out/) - [vc_row full_width=”stretch_row_content” content_placement=”top” css=”.vc_custom_1568730802642{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 0px !important;background-color: #033074 !important;}”][vc_column css=”.vc_custom_1562242650671{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 0px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1562242663546{margin-top: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 3% !important;padding-bottom: 2% !important;}”] LEISURE [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row full_width=”stretch_row_content” content_placement=”middle” css=”.vc_custom_1568730560381{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom:
- [Useful information, advice & websites](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/early-years-old/useful-info/) - [vc_row full_width=”stretch_row_content_no_spaces” content_placement=”middle” css=”.vc_custom_1568379252442{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 0px !important;background-color: #ef9329 !important;}”][vc_column css=”.vc_custom_1562233224184{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 0px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1562233536763{margin-top: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 3% !important;padding-bottom: 2% !important;}”] EARLY YEARS [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row full_width=”stretch_row_content” content_placement=”middle” css=”.vc_custom_1568379267649{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px
- [Social networking](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/support-old/social-networking/) - [vc_row full_width=”stretch_row_content_no_spaces” content_placement=”top” css=”.vc_custom_1568378687085{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 0px !important;background-color: #8f79ad !important;}”][vc_column css=”.vc_custom_1562160462394{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 0px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1566307589196{margin-top: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 3% !important;padding-bottom: 2% !important;}”] SUPPORT [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row full_width=”stretch_row_content” content_placement=”middle” css=”.vc_custom_1568378245432{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom:
- [Additional benefits and reductions](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/financial-support-old-2/benefits-reductions/) - [vc_row full_width=”stretch_row_content_no_spaces” content_placement=”top” css=”.vc_custom_1568378555169{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 0px !important;background-color: #8f79ad !important;}”][vc_column css=”.vc_custom_1568378648141{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 0px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1566309369686{margin-top: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 3% !important;padding-bottom: 2% !important;}”] SUPPORT [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row full_width=”stretch_row_content” content_placement=”middle” css=”.vc_custom_1568378211532{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom:
- [Grants](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/financial-support-old-2/grants/) - [vc_row full_width=”stretch_row_content_no_spaces” content_placement=”top” css=”.vc_custom_1568378529511{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 0px !important;background-color: #8f79ad !important;}”][vc_column css=”.vc_custom_1562160462394{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 0px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1566309337935{margin-top: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 3% !important;padding-bottom: 2% !important;}”] SUPPORT [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row full_width=”stretch_row_content” content_placement=”middle” css=”.vc_custom_1568378163980{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom:
- [Government benefits](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/financial-support-old-2/government-benefits/) - [vc_row full_width=”stretch_row_content_no_spaces” content_placement=”top” css=”.vc_custom_1568378501407{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 0px !important;background-color: #8f79ad !important;}”][vc_column css=”.vc_custom_1562159884503{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom: 0px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1566309319888{margin-top: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 3% !important;padding-bottom: 2% !important;}”] SUPPORT [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row full_width=”stretch_row_content” content_placement=”middle” css=”.vc_custom_1568378071781{margin-top: 0px !important;margin-bottom: 0px !important;border-top-width: 0px !important;border-bottom-width: 0px !important;padding-top: 0px !important;padding-bottom:
- [Browse all stories](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/browse-stories/) - [vc_row][vc_column][vc_masonry_grid post_type=”post” max_items=”” show_filter=”yes” filter_color=”black” filter_size=”lg” grid_id=”vc_gid:1561377528194-bbf13494-7daf-5″ filter_source=”category”][/vc_column][/vc_row]
- [Terms of Use](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/terms-of-use/) - 1 Acceptance of terms Your access to and use of https://www.victaparents.org.uk (“the Website”) is subject exclusively to these Terms and Conditions. You will not use the Website for any purpose that is unlawful or prohibited by these Terms and Conditions. By using the Website you are fully accepting the terms, conditions and disclaimers contained in
- [Under Construction](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/under-construction/) - This site is currently under construction. In the meantime, please visit www.victa.org.uk to find out how VICTA can support you.

## Portfolio

- [VICTA Parent Workshop – Understanding Your Child’s World: ADHD and Vision Impairment Made Practical](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/our-events/understanding-adhd-vision-impairment/) - Dates: 24 February 2026, 7.30pm Location: Online - Zoom Who: Parents of a child who is visually impaired Apply now
- [VICTA Parent Workshop –The Power of Reading](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/our-events/victa-parent-workshop-power-of-reading/) - Dates: 3 March 2026, 7.00pm Location: Online - Zoom Who: Parents of a child who is visually impaired Apply now
- [VICTA Parent Workshop –Understanding your teenager: Brain development, sensory needs and building independence](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/our-events/victa-parent-workshop-understanding-your-teenager/) - Dates: 24 February 2026, 7.30pm Location: Online - Zoom Who: Parents of a child who is visually impaired Apply now
- [VICTA Parent Workshop – Early Intervention Sleep Support-Building Strong Foundations](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/our-events/early-intervention-sleep/) - Dates: 18 November 2025, 7.30pm Location: Online - Zoom Who: Parents of a child who is visually impaired Apply now
- [VICTA Parent Workshop – Managing EHCP's under 16 and post 16](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/our-events/ehcps-under-16-and-post-16/) - Dates: October 2025 Location: Online - Zoom Who: Parents of a child who is visually impaired
- [VICTA Parent Workshop – Towards an independent adulthood with Guidedogs](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/our-events/independent-adulthood/) - Dates: 14 July 2025, 7.30pm Location: Online - Zoom Who: Parents of a child who is visually impaired
- [VICTA Parent Workshop – The journey to employment – information and support for parents and teenagers](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/our-events/the-journey-to-employment/) - Dates: 18 June 2025, 7.30pm Location: Online - Zoom Who: Parents of a child who is visually impaired Apply now
- [VICTA Parent Workshop –Early Intervention Sleep Support-Building Strong Foundations](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/our-events/early-intervention-sleep-support/) - Dates: 11 March 2025, 7.30pm Location: Online - Zoom Who: Parents of a child who is visually impaired Apply now
- [VICTA Parent Workshop – Children's Mental Health Support - VI panel of personal journeys and experiences](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/our-events/workshop-children-mental-health/) - Dates: 24 February Location: Online - Zoom Who: Parents of a child who is visually impaired Workshop closed
- [VICTA Parent Workshop – Learn how to engage your child with Braille in fun and creative ways with Mr. Dot](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/our-events/engage-your-child-with-braille/) - When: Tuesday 28 Jan 2025, 7.30pm-9.30pm Where: Online - Zoom Who: Parents of a child who is visually impaired workshop is now closed
- [Parent Workshop - IPSEA Introduction to SEND Law](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/our-events/send-law/) - Dates: 21 November, 7.30pm to 9.30pm Location: Online - Zoom Who: Parents of a VI child Workshop closed
- [Parent Workshop - Sensory Play Discovery for Children with Complex Needs](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/our-events/sensory-play-complex-needs/) - Dates: 26 November, 7.30pm to 8.30pm Location: Online - Zoom Who: Parents of a VI child with additional complex needs Applications closed
- [Parent Workshop - Sensory Play Discovery with Guide Dogs, My Time to Play](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/our-events/workshop-sensory-play-guide-dogs/) - Dates: 19 November, 7.30pm to 8.30pm Location: Online - Zoom Who: Parents of a VI child aged 0 to 4 years Applications closed
- [An introduction to sleep and your VI child](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/our-events/workshop-vi-sleep/) - Dates: 1 October 2024 Location: Online - VICTA Parent Portal Who: Parents Applications closed
- [VICTA Parent Workshop – Managing EHCPs](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/our-events/workshop-ehcps/) - Dates: 28 & 30 October 2024, 7.30pm Location: Online - Zoom Who: Parents of a child who is visually impaired Applications closed
- [VICTA Parent Workshop – Curriculum Framework for Children and Young People with Vision Impairment](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/our-events/workshop-curriculum-framework-vi/) - Dates: 2 July 2024, 7.30pm Location: Online - Zoom Who: Parents of a child who is visually impaired Applications closed
- [VICTA Parent Workshop – Ask the ophthalmologist with Dr Jay](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/our-events/workshop-ophthalmologist/) - Dates: 12 June 2024, 7.30pm Location: Online - Zoom Who: Parents of a child who is visually impaired Apply now
- [VICTA VI Tech Week Parent Workshops – technology and skills for young people](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/our-events/vi-technology-workshops/) - Dates: 14, 16 & 17 May 2024 Location: Online - Zoom Who: Parents of a child who is visually impaired Applications closed
- [An introduction to sleep and your vision impaired child](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/our-events/sleep-vi-child-workshop/) - Dates: 19 March 2024 Location: Online - VICTA Parent Portal Who: Parents Workshop closed
- [Parent Workshop – Mental health: help your VI child connect with nature](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/our-events/workshop-childrens-mental-health-nature/) - Dates: 5 February 2024 Location: Online - Zoom Who: Parents of a child who is visually impaired Apply now
- [Parent Workshop – Supporting your vision impaired child to learn braille](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/our-events/workshop-supporting-braille/) - Dates: 23 January 2024 Location: Online - VICTA Parent Portal Who: Parents of a child who is visually impaired Applications closed
- [Parent Workshop – Employability and Reasonable Adjustments](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/our-events/blind-business/) - Dates: 26 October 2023 Location: Online - VICTA Parent Portal Who: Parents of a child who is visually impaired Applications closed
- [Parent Workshop – Transitioning into secondary school](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/our-events/transition-secondary-school/) - Dates: 26 September 23 Location: Online - VICTA Parent Portal Who: Parents of a child who is visually impaired
- [Parent Workshop – VI Teens and Sleep](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/our-events/vi-teens-sleep/) - Dates: 18 July 2023 Location: Online - VICTA Parent Portal Who: Parents of a VI 12 to 18 year old Workshop closed
- [Parent Workshop – Mental Health and Anxiety](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/our-events/workshop-mental-health-anxiety/) - Dates: 16 May 2023 Location: Online Who: Parents of a child who is vision impaired Applications closed
- [Parent Workshop – Neurodiversity & vision impairment with GOSH](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/our-events/neurodiversity-gosh-workshop/) - Dates: 10 May 2023 Location: Online - VICTA Parent Portal Who: Parents of a child who is visually impaired Sorry this workshop is now closed
- [An introduction to sleep and your VI child](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/our-events/sleep-workshop/) - Dates: 14 March 2023 Location: Online - VICTA Parent Portal Who: Parents Apply now
- [Parent Workshop – Sensory Processing Disorder and Vision Impairment](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/our-events/workshop-spd/) - Dates: 7 February 2023 Location: Online - VICTA Parent Portal Who: Parents of a child who is visually impaired Workshop closed

## FAQs

- [I disagree with the school that has been named in my child's ECHP, as well as the description of needs. I have been advised that I must go through mediation before I can consider appealing. Is that correct?](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/faq-items/disagree-school-named-echp/) - Mediation in SEN matters is an optional, not mandatory process. In most cases, you need to secure a Mediation Certificate to lodge an appeal with the SEND Tribunal, which can be done either by pursuing mediation (and securing a certificate at the end of the process) or simply contacting the nominated mediation service and requesting
- [What type of school can I name in my child's plan?](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/faq-items/type-of-school-ehcp/) - Parents/Carers of a child or YP with an EHCP have the right to ask for the following types of schools to be named in the Plan (Section I): A maintained school or nursery (mainstream or special) An academy An FE placement Non-maintained special school A s.41 placement i.e. independent special schools which have ‘opted in’
- [What does the law say about entitlement to free transport for a child with an EHCP?](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/faq-items/free-transport-ehcp/) - Local Authorities are required to arrange free and suitable home-to-school transport for children of compulsory school age who are ‘eligible’ to their nearest suitable qualifying school. Eligible children is defined under four categories: Children with SEN, a disability or a mobility difficulty Children whose route to school is unsafe Children who live beyond the statutory
- [What are Personal Budgets and Direct Payments in an EHCP?](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/faq-items/personal-budgets-direct-payments-ehcp/) - These are newly introduced elements of EHCPs. Local Authorities can now be requested to identify a ‘personal budget’ for a child or young person that an EHCP is maintained for. A personal budget is an amount of money identified by a Local Authority to deliver provision set out in the EHCP where the parent or
- [How do I get my child an EHCP?](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/faq-items/get-my-child-ehcp/) - The first step in the process is to request an Education, Health and Care Needs Assessment of the child. An EHC Needs Assessment informs a Local Authority’s decision on whether it needs to issue an EHCP for the child or young person. Once a Local Authority agrees to carry out an EHC Needs Assessment it
- [What's the difference between a Statement of SEN and an EHCP?](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/faq-items/statement-sen-ehcp/) - An Education Health & Care Plan replaces Statements of Special Educational Needs in England, as a result of the Children and Families Act 2014. By 1 April 2018, all Statements of SEN should have been replaced with an EHCP following a legally prescribed transition process. In Wales, Statements of SEN remain in force and are
- [What is the Annual Review?](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/faq-items/ehcp-annual-review/) - This is a process which must occur annually for pupils with an EHCP. The Annual Review process is commenced in a meeting forum with the purpose of reviewing the pupil’s progress over the preceding 12 months and to assess the adequacy of the support package the pupil is receiving and whether there is any need
- [What if I'm unhappy with the final plan?](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/faq-items/ehcp-final-plan/) - Even if you have raised your disagreement to the Plan at Draft stage, the LA may not have accommodated all/any of the changes you requested. The LA will issue your Final Plan but, if you are still unhappy with Sections B, F and/or I, you should, on issue of the final Plan, exercise your right
- [What if I'm unhappy with the draft plan?](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/faq-items/ehcp-draft-plan/) - When an LA first prepares an EHCP for a child/YP (or amends it at any subsequent point) it must issue it as a Draft Plan. On issue of a Draft Plan, Parents/ Carers must be given 15 days to make representations on the Plan. This can be done in writing, or a meeting can be
- [My child has stopped receiving the speech and language provision set out in their EHCP - What can I do about this?](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/faq-items/speech-language-ehcp/) - Speech and language provision should be specified in Section F of the EHCP and by law, Local Authorities are required to secure the special educational provision specified in Section F. Once you discover the provision is not being provided, you need to raise this with the Local Authority directly and immediately, in writing. It may
- [What is the Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) Tribunal and when is it useful? What are the cost implications of going to Tribunal?](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/faq-items/send-tribunal/) - The SEND Tribunal is the legally identified route of redress against Local Authority decisions for specified matters concerning EHCPs. It is an independent national tribunal which hears parents’ and young people’s appeals against Local Authority decisions about the special educational needs of children and young people. Specifically, parents/young person can appeal to the SEND Tribunal
- [I have been told that once my child reaches age 16, I have no rights regarding their EHCP - is that true?](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/faq-items/age-16-rights-ehcp/) - The Children and Families Act 2014, which is the legal framework for EHCPs, states that once a young person reaches the end of compulsory school age, all rights that were previously held by the parent, pass to the young person, subject to the young person having mental capacity, as per the Mental Capacity Act 2005.
- [What happens during an EHC Needs Assessment?](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/faq-items/ehc-needs-assessment/) - An EHC Needs Assessment is an integrated assessment of the education, health care and social care needs of the child or young person. A Local Authority must seek advice on a child or young person’s needs, the provision to meet those needs and outcomes expected to be achieved. Advice can be sought from: the child’s
- [What if I'm refused an EHC Needs Assessment?](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/faq-items/refused-ehc-needs-assessment/) - If the LA agrees to your request for an EHC Needs Assessment, the assessment process will commence, with various agencies being approached and becoming involved. If the LA refuses to carry out an assessment, this should be communicated in writing and the letter should also state that you have the right to appeal against this
- [What's the purpose of an EHCP?](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/faq-items/purpose-of-an-ehcp/) - The document is produced and maintained by your Local Authority and should specify the special educational needs and special educational provision required by the child/young person. The EHCP should also specify the educational placement that the child/young person should attend. The Plan also has sections that should detail the health care provision that has been
- [What are the rules when my child moves into a new phase of their education (phase transfer)?](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/faq-items/education-phase-transfer/) - Local authorities must not make children or young people with EHCPs go through the usual schools admissions process. The law sets out a separate process for pupils with EHCPs. The SEN and Disability Regulations 2014 define this as a transfer from: (a) early years education to school (b) infant school to junior school (c) primary school to

## Categories

- [Education](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/category/education/)
- [Leisure](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/category/leisure/)
- [Young adult's voice](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/category/young-adults-voice/)
- [Assistive technology](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/category/assistive-technology/)
- [Eye conditions](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/category/eye-conditions/)
- [Early Years](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/category/early-years/)
- [Charities and organisations](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/category/charities-and-organisations/)
- [Stories](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/category/stories/)
- [Parent information](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/category/parent-information/)
- [Travel/days out](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/category/travel-days-out/)
- [Achievements](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/category/achievements/)
- [Positive Eye](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/category/positive-eye/)
- [Christmas](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/category/christmas/)
- [Mental Health](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/category/mental-health/)
- [Advice for parents](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/category/advice-for-parents/)
- [Parent stories](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/category/parent-stories/)
- [Sleep](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/category/sleep/)
- [Hands on fun](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/category/hands-on-fun/)
- [Halloween](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/category/halloween/)
- [Music](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/category/music/)
- [Literacy](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/category/literacy/)
- [Braille](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/category/braille/)
- [Nature and outdoors](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/category/nature-and-outdoors/)
- [Raising awareness](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/category/raising-awareness/)
- [Mobility](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/category/mobility/)
- [Competitions](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/category/competitions/)
- [The Blog Factor](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/category/the-blog-factor/)
- [Celebrations](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/category/celebrations/)
- [Cooking](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/category/cooking/)
- [Products for VI children](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/category/products-for-vi-children/)
- [Play](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/category/play/)
- [Art](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/category/art/)
- [Podcast](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/category/podcast/)

## Tags

- [young adults](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/young-adults/)
- [parenting](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/parenting/)
- [blogging](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/blogging/)
- [parent support](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/parent-support/)
- [Bloggers](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/bloggers/)
- [education](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/education/)
- [awareness training](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/awareness-training/)
- [speech and language](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/speech-and-language/)
- [music](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/music/)
- [leisure](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/leisure/)
- [learning](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/learning/)
- [development](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/development/)
- [crafts](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/crafts/)
- [parents information](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/parents-information/)
- [books](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/books/)
- [mobility](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/mobility/)
- [hearing](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/hearing/)
- [charities](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/charities/)
- [organisations](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/organisations/)
- [apps](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/apps/)
- [assistive technology](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/assistive-technology/)
- [positve eye](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/positve-eye/)
- [positive eye](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/positive-eye/)
- [christmas](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/christmas/)
- [stories](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/stories/)
- [gardening](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/gardening/)
- [early years](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/early-years/)
- [eye conditions](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/eye-conditions/)
- [literacy](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/literacy/)
- [days out](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/days-out/)
- [guide dogs](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/guide-dogs/)
- [bullying](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/bullying/)
- [sleep](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/sleep/)
- [achievements](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/achievements/)
- [sensory](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/sensory/)
- [braille](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/braille/)
- [school](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/school/)
- [reading](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/reading/)
- [sport](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/sport/)
- [who](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/who/)
- [financial support](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/financial-support/)
- [registering](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/registering/)
- [film](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/film/)
- [parents](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/parents/)
- [inspiration](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/inspiration/)
- [awareness](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/awareness/)
- [toy like me](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/toy-like-me/)
- [play](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/play/)
- [learning through play](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/learning-through-play/)
- [inclusivity](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/inclusivity/)
- [accessibility information](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/accessibility-information/)
- [progression](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/progression/)
- [bonfire night](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/bonfire-night/)
- [top tips](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/top-tips/)
- [craft](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/craft/)
- [12 days of christmas](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/12-days-of-christmas/)
- [festive](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/festive/)
- [activities](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/activities/)
- [accessible](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/accessible/)
- [baking](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/baking/)
- [biscuits](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/biscuits/)
- [festive family fun](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/festive-family-fun/)
- [goalball](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/goalball/)
- [sports](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/sports/)
- [learning at home](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/learning-at-home/)
- [concept development](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/concept-development/)
- [travel](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/travel/)
- [parent events](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/parent-events/)
- [parent network](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/parent-network/)
- [SAT's](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/sats/)
- [mental health](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/mental-health/)
- [young person](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/young-person/)
- [wellbeing](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/wellbeing/)
- [siblings](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/siblings/)
- [rsbc](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/rsbc/)
- [family support](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/family-support/)
- [parent voice](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/parent-voice/)
- [parent information](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/parent-information/)
- [accessible days out](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/accessible-days-out/)
- [surfing](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/surfing/)
- [independence](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/independence/)
- [young adults voice](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/young-adults-voice/)
- [mother's day](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/mothers-day/)
- [mum](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/mum/)
- [poem](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/poem/)
- [understanding](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/understanding/)
- [complex needs](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/complex-needs/)
- [coronavirus](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/coronavirus/)
- [messy play](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/messy-play/)
- [music and movment](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/music-and-movment/)
- [life of a blind girl](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/life-of-a-blind-girl/)
- [lockdown](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/lockdown/)
- [positives](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/positives/)
- [advice](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/advice/)
- [covid-19](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/covid-19/)
- [friends](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/friends/)
- [university](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/university/)
- [higher education](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/higher-education/)
- [visually impaired](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/visually-impaired/)
- [behaviour](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/behaviour/)
- [struggles](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/struggles/)
- [asking for help](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/asking-for-help/)
- [update](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/update/)
- [melatonin](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/melatonin/)
- [sleep condition](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/sleep-condition/)
- [sleep deprivation](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/sleep-deprivation/)
- [halloween](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/halloween/)
- [pumpkin](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/pumpkin/)
- [recreation](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/recreation/)
- [games](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/games/)
- [language](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/language/)
- [fine motor skills](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/fine-motor-skills/)
- [myblurredworld](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/myblurredworld/)
- [confidence](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/confidence/)
- [blind awareness month](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/blind-awareness-month/)
- [premature baby](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/premature-baby/)
- [world prematurity day](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/world-prematurity-day/)
- [events](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/events/)
- [ideas](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/ideas/)
- [party ideas](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/party-ideas/)
- [party](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/party/)
- [virtual party](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/virtual-party/)
- [zoom party](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/zoom-party/)
- [interactive](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/interactive/)
- [christmas inspiration](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/christmas-inspiration/)
- [accessibility](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/accessibility/)
- [young persons voice](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/young-persons-voice/)
- [12 day of christmas](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/12-day-of-christmas/)
- [goals](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/goals/)
- [expectations](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/expectations/)
- [2021](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/2021/)
- [public perceptions](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/public-perceptions/)
- [success](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/success/)
- [creativity](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/creativity/)
- [children mental health week](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/children-mental-health-week/)
- [parent stories](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/parent-stories/)
- [menta](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/menta/)
- [deaf blind](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/deaf-blind/)
- [camerons smile](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/camerons-smile/)
- [experiences](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/experiences/)
- [support](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/support/)
- [world mental health day](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/world-mental-health-day/)
- [anxiety](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/anxiety/)
- [parents stories](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/parents-stories/)
- [nature](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/nature/)
- [autumn](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/autumn/)
- [getting outdoors](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/getting-outdoors/)
- [well being](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/well-being/)
- [birds](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/birds/)
- [conservation](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/conservation/)
- [traditional](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/traditional/)
- [retinitis pigmentosa](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/retinitis-pigmentosa/)
- [low vision](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/low-vision/)
- [poetry](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/poetry/)
- [representation](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/representation/)
- [literature](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/literature/)
- [disability](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/disability/)
- [growth](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/growth/)
- [health](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/health/)
- [white cane](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/white-cane/)
- [CVI](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/cvi/)
- [rnib](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/rnib/)
- [education guide](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/education-guide/)
- [parents events](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/parents-events/)
- [parents support](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/parents-support/)
- [instagram](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/instagram/)
- [social media](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/social-media/)
- [Nystagmus](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/tag/nystagmus/)

## Portfolio Categories

- [Family Activities](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/portfolio_category/family/)
- [Applications Closed](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/portfolio_category/applications-closed/)
- [14 to 17 years](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/portfolio_category/14-17/)
- [Early Years](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/portfolio_category/early-years/)
- [10 to 13 years](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/portfolio_category/10-to-13-years/)
- [Online](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/portfolio_category/online/)

## Portfolio Skills

- [employability](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/portfolio_skills/employability/)

## FAQ Categories

- [EHCP](https://www.victaparents.org.uk/faq_category/ehcp/)