The American Foundation for the Blind (AFB) understands that information is power. We are committed to connecting parents and guardians of children who are blind or visually impaired to life-changing information, resources, local services, and a vibrant and supportive community.

That’s why AFB launched FamilyConnect—now stewarded by the American Printing House for the Blind—a free, comprehensive resource of information and support for parents of children who are blind or have low vision.

portrait of several families with children who are blind or visually impaired

Recommended Links from FamilyConnect

  • FamilyConnect provides parents of children who are blind and have low vision, their family members, and their child's medical and educational team members with tips, ideas, information, and personal stories to support them in raising their children.
  • The "After the Diagnosis" section addresses many common concerns of those who have children recently diagnosed with an eye condition. ParentConnect offers a virtual support group for parents and families of children who are blind or have low vision to connect with and learn from each other about the joys, challenges, and adventures of raising children with visual impairments and blindness. Parents can also hear success stories from families who have used APH ConnectCenter For Families, find information and resources on how to get started with medical professionals, find services from national organizations that are dedicated to the well-being of children with blindness or low vision, get tips on maintaining emotional wellbeing, and find multi-cultural articles and resources.
  • The Browse by Age section provides articles on age-specific information on raising a child who is blind or has low vision—addressing family relationships and social activities, growth and development, pertinent education issues, assistive technology, and more.
  • The Ideas for Home/Community section offers tips on adapting homes to support children who are blind or have low vision and discover helpful products, toys, crafts, and activities to engage your child throughout the year.
  • The Education section provides information and resources on IFSPs, IEPs, Assessments, ECC, homeschool, literacy and braille, rights, and advocacy.
  • The Complex Needs section delivers information to support the learning, communication, and independence of children who are blind and have an additional disability.

For more information about Americans of all ages with vision loss, visit "Statistical Snapshots from the American Foundation for the Blind."