The letter is intended to help parents of young blind children understand the effects of their expectations on their child's development. The importance of believing in the essential normality and ability of the blind child is underlined, and parents are told basic information about developmental patterns, educational programs (including instruction in special tools such as braille, and segregated or integrated programs), and adaptations for personal independence. The parent's role in overcoming social prejudice toward the blind is addressed, and parents are advised to seek to change public misconceptions about blindness as well as to encourage the child's expectations of independence. (CL)