SCSC Hosts Family Visual Impairment Gathering

South Central Service Cooperative hosted the first ever “Family Get Together” for children with visual impairment.  Eleven families, with children ranging from ages 1 to 13 years, met at the Holiday Inn, Mankato on January 23^rd and 24^th to participate in games and activities, listen to speakers, and most importantly, connect with each other.  Student volunteers from Gustavus Adolphus College and St. Peter High School, Region 9 Vision Consultants, and Teachers of the Blind/Visually Impaired from Mankato and Madelia all joined together to make this event a success.

Parents listened to topics ranging from Social and Life Skills to Orientation and Mobility issues. They had a chance to try out some cane techniques and ask questions of three successful adults who have dealt with vision impairments.

Guided by vision consultants and teachers of the blind/visually impaired, the children participated in making wind chimes, cookies in a jar, hats, parachute activities, and more fun activities.  Student volunteers also assisted the children in these activities and many friendships were formed.  Everyone is hoping this special gathering will become an annual event.