Children & Youth Programs

CNIB, in partnership with community organizations, provides three Early Intervention Camps to families of children five years of age or younger with vision loss. These camps give new parents an opportunity to gain extensive knowledge about vision loss, social & motor skill development, orientation & mobility, daily living skills, early literacy, as well as the chance to network with other families from around the province. These camps are offered at a minimal cost to the families. Guest speakers with expertise in vision loss and blindness are often invited to make presentations.

Parents of children with vision loss gather at CNIB to support each other and share coping strategies related to raising a child who is blind or partially sighted. Childcare is provided as needed. For more information on when this group meets, contact Sarah McCullough at 604-431-2050.

CNIB is currently working on starting similar groups in other parts of the Province. To find out if there is a group in your area call 1-866-869-0343.

CNIB offers a drop-in youth group to adolescents with vision loss between the ages of 12 and 17. The group meets the third Friday of every month from 6:00 – 9:00 PM. This is an opportunity for youth to practice some basic daily living and safe travel skills, participate in recreational activities, and share everyday challenges with their peers.

The Specialist, Children & Youth Services works with children and their families who are living with vision loss and/or combined vision loss and other disabilities. Assisting in the child’s adjustment and providing resources and strategies, they aid in achieving the child’s highest level of independence. The Specialist acts as a liaison between the children and families and educational and community agencies across the province of British Columbia and Yukon Territory. They offer support to parents, primary care givers and professionals as an advocate, both within CNIB and in the community.

For further information, please call 604-431-2050.