Starting a new school year can be exciting, but for children and youth who are blind or have low vision, it can bring with it feelings of frustration, fear, and uncertainty. For some, navigating new environments, meeting new teachers, making friends and adjusting to changing routines can be isolating and overwhelming.
At CNIB, we know that success in the classroom starts with confidence and the right supports. Too often, children and families encounter unnecessary barriers that make school feel harder than it should. That's why, as part of the “Our Kids Will Thrive” strategic commitment, we’ve expanded CNIB’s programs for children, youth, and their families – ensuring they have every opportunity to learn, play, and thrive in school and beyond.
As part of our growing lineup of programs, the CNIB Learning Academy offers a mix of meaningful experiences for children and youth who are blind or have low vision to empower them to grow as leaders, build their independence, connect with peers, and prepare for life beyond the classroom.
This summer, CNIB introduced a new camp for children ages 7-13 called Camp Connect for Primary Explorers. Through group activities, fun outings, and special presentations from guest speakers, 14 young primary explorers delved into the theme of “communication,” discovering the many ways we communicate, share ideas, and connect with others through storytelling, media, music, and more.
Throughout the week, campers navigated the city and visited places like the TIFF Lightbox, CBC, the Toronto Public Library, and Toronto Police Headquarters, where they enjoyed hands-on activities like 3D printing and tactile art exhibits, learned about storytelling, and met real-world professionals working in media, public service, and storytelling. Guest speakers encouraged campers to think about how communication brings ideas to life and shapes the world around us.
For Rhonda Underhill-Gray, Learning Academy Program Lead, Camp Connect is so important for children who are blind or have low vision because of its inclusiveness. It gives kids the opportunity to participate in new experiences that are accessible to them, and to meet other kids who are like them.
“A lot of these kids might be labelled 'the blind kid’ in school and are treated differently. And all of a sudden, when they're in a group with other kids who are blind, they're not alone,” she adds. “To have that experience and not feel excluded or different is irreplaceable.”
Visiting Canada’s National Broadcaster
Campers explored the world of news during a visit to the Canadian Broadcasting Centre in downtown Toronto. They learned how news is produced for different platforms and how audiences consume it. Later, the group toured a radio studio and practiced making voiceovers – an exciting experience and a highlight for many of the kids!
One of the most memorable moments of the week came when campers met a CBC staff member who disclosed their sight loss with the group. The room responded with an audible gasp – a powerful reminder of how representation can unlock possibilities for the next generation.
Helping kids discover what’s possible
CNIB Learning Academy programs like Camp Connect are all about creating opportunities for kids who are blind or have low vision to try new things, form friendships, and strengthen their leadership, independence, and social skills. Your support makes this possible, helping us to deliver experiences that empower kids to learn, grow, and most importantly – dream big!
To learn more about CNIB programs for children and youth, visit cnib.ca/learn