Washington State Department of Services for the Blind

Child and Family Program

The Child and Family (CF) Program provides services to youths of various ages (newborns to high school graduates) who are blind or visually impaired and to their families. Eligibility for services is not based solely on a child’s visual acuity or diagnosis. Eligibility is individually determined if a child’s visual impairment makes it unfeasible for the child to perform those activities necessary for school, and other childhood endeavors without specialized materials, training or considerations.

Working with families, CF consultants offer individualized support and referral services regarding developmental and educational resources for children who are blind or visually impaired. Families are encouraged to contact the CF Program for in-home consultations.

For blind or visually impaired youth, aged 14 and older, the CF Program co-sponsors summer activities which promote career education, work experience, and college preparation. To complete their career counseling and guidance, youth who are blind or visually impaired are referred to the Department of Services for the Blind Vocational Rehabilitation Program prior to their high school completion.

The CF Program sponsors conferences and workshops. Some are designed for a unique population or age, while others are open to everyone interested in the development of children who are blind or visually impaired. About Blind Children, a tri-annual newsletter, is a publication of the CF Program.