The report describes the second year of a survey of sensory impaired children in Nebraska. It is explained that results have been used to improve administrative planning and cost efficient delivery of services. Demographic and assessment information was collected and analyzed on 888 sensory impaired children (birth to 21) via questionnaires…

The paper presents developmental charts detailing the needs and patterns of very young visually impaired children. Five age levels are considered (0-6 months, 6-12 months, 1-.25 years, 2.5-4 years, and 4-5 years) within the context of auditory awareness, body image, development of meaningful language, tactual awareness and manipulative skills,…

Three teachers discuss using picture books to cure reading problems, boost sagging self-concepts, and tutor handicapped children. Techniques for using books are described, as are follow-up activities. Examples of specific books and their uses with hearing and visually impaired children are given. (MT)

Description of the Kurzweil Reading Machine, which uses a special camera and computer to transform printed matter into synthetic speech; includes reading and sound production, machine operation, adjusting to different typefaces, and limitations. Review of the portable reading aid for the partially sighted, Viewscan, discusses characteristics,…

This article presents ideas for simulation activities through which home economics students can experience age-related changes. In these activities, students are physically impaired by using a variety of devices and materials and then are required to complete common day-to-day tasks. (CT)

The authors present a screening device with which teachers of severely handicapped students may detect the presence of a physical problem. The screening approach covers vision, auditory problems, seizures, orthopedic problems, and pain. (CL)

The article explores activities which promote the development of accurate and functional concepts concerning the environment for blind children. (PHR)

A comprehensive program of instruction in the use of low vision is proposed, including definitions, a philosophy of low vision, theoretical constructs, a flow chart of professional and individual relationships and responsibilities, goals, curriculum, and an evaluation system. (Author/JDD)

The self-concepts of 61 visually impaired students in grades 6 to 8 were tested with the "Student's Self-Assessment Inventory: Visually Impaired Form." Results demonstrate the area-specific nature of self-concept in visually impaired students. A sample individualized education program demonstrates enhancement of self-concept through focusing on…

An overview is presented of common causes of vision loss in young children and the impact of a visual impairment on development and learning. The article also discusses the role of the family and team members in meeting the intervention needs as well as issues affecting delivery of early intervention services. (Author/DB)

This study examined the relationship between the level of self-stimulation and the rate of correct task-related responses in 2 multiply disabled (severely retarded, deaf and visually impaired) individuals (ages 16 and 12). Findings suggested that self-stimulation does not always need to be suppressed to promote adaptive responding. (DB)

This article describes an orientation and mobility program serving 20 students with both developmental disabilities and visual impairments. It documents the low level of baseline behaviors and discusses program components, including the training staff, school environment adaptations, and individualized and community training techniques.…

This article discusses factors related to individuals with sudden blindness, focusing on the visually impaired client's readiness for rehabilitation, the reactions of family members and friends, and personality variables. Two cases illustrate the adjustment process and eventual rehabilitation. (DB)

This report describes the use of peer sampling procedures to develop individualized plans to familiarize an incoming visually impaired person to a university campus and community. Environmental specificity of the procedure is illustrated by application to two residences. (Author/DB)

This article describes the High Vision Games, a habilitation model for youth with low vision which involves a pregame training phase; the games, where participants demonstrate their visual skills in high tech, low tech, or no tech versions; and postgame follow-through activities. The approach has had positive training, social, and professional…