Children Oriented Programs & Services:
For most children, ninety percent of their early learning comes from vision. A child who is blind or visually impaired learns about the world in other ways. We offer an early intervention program for infants through age six. Our professional teachers and therapists encourage optimum development for each child.
The Lighthouse professional team of dedicated therapists and teachers is available to address the unique needs of each child and their family. Socialization skills are promoted through our therapeutic playgroup. Parents are provided information, education, and support. A Summer Life Skills Camp is offered to youth ages ten to fourteen. Transitions Camp is for youth fourteen to twenty.
Success Stories
Kailea came to the Lighthouse of Pinellas programs at six months old. Her parents had been told that she was both blind and deaf. Kailea’s parents wondered, "How will we communicate with her? Will she ever learn to walk without the motivation most children have to reach the toy on the floor if she can’t see it?" With the early intervention therapy programs here at Lighthouse of Pinellas, Kailea – who is now a toddler– can walk nearly independently down the hallways and smiles when she sees a familiar face. Early in Kailea’s therapy it was discovered that she did in fact have some vision and our therapist are helping her reach her full potential.
Kyle also came to Lighthouse of Pinellas at six months old. Kyle was born prematurely at only 23 weeks weighing 1 pound 4 ounces. His mothers wedding ring could fit on his tiny leg! Due to lack of oxygen and being in the incubators, Kyle has no vision in one eye and limited in the other. Kyle’s parents refused to let others set his limits, and worked with the Lighthouse to help Kyle reach HIS full potential. Kyle is now achieving academic success as a middle school honor roll student.
A Hands-On, Individual Approach
The therapist goals at Lighthouse of Pinellas are to reach each child individually and design their specific program. Children who are blind or visually impaired learn about the world in different ways – through touch, sound and experience. Our therapies are unique to each child – to help them reach their own potential.
