Hadley has always offered informative online and long-distance classes to parents of visually impaired and multiply handicapped children, but not everyone has the time or energy to invest in an entire course.
Mini-courses are Hadley’s answer to busy family schedules. The new mini-courses are one book and one assignment. The courses are free and are offered in large print or online. Each mini-course is on a topic relevant to parents with babies and young children.
Topics include:
- You, Your Child, and Your Community
Raising a child who is visually impaired adds unique twists to the parenting adventure. This course shows how planning can help you face parenting challenges more confidently and strengthen the relationships with yourself, your child, other family members, and your community. Parents are offered strategies for taking care and scheduling time for self. Tips are offered for enjoying your child, building strong family connections, and building community. - Beginning the Special Education Journey
Learning the basics of special education services helps you make sure your child obtains an appropriate education. This mini-course discusses professionals and the system of services in the United States. It explains the Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) and the Individualized Education Program (IEP) and outlines the range of placements for children with visual impairments. It also gives ways to prepare for the transition from early intervention to preschool. - How to Be Your Child’s Advocate
Working with other members of your child’s educational team can greatly benefit your child. You know your child best, so you are the captain of this team. This mini-course discusses parents’ rights and the laws pertaining to special education in the United States. It presents advocacy strategies to help you ensure that your child receives a free, appropriate public education.
Enrollment is now open for these mini-courses. For more information about Hadley’s Family Education Program and the new mini-courses contact Debbie Worman, Instructor, at The Hadley School for the Blind at 800-323-4238 or worman@hadley.edu.