Karen was a teacher for children who were blind and visually impaired. Visually-impaired – is the term for someone whose vision is compromised so much that they can’t do normal functions. Total blindness is when someone can not tell the difference between light or dark. Legally blind is someone who is visually impaired to the point that they can not read. I am legally blind with out my glasses or contacts.
Karen shared the story of Louis Braille (1809-1852), the inventor of the Braille alphabet. 
Kids broke into teams to play decoding games to get a better sense of how the braille alphabet works. We gained a better understanding of how a person uses a white cane or enhances their lives with a seeing eye dog.
This week at home, our family will be taking turns blindfolding each other and counting how many steps it takes each of us to get to the bathroom, bedroom, refrigerator and our mailbox. Find your own ways to help your children experience life as visually-impaired.
This understanding builds awareness, compassion and normalcy for those with differences then themselves as well as instilling them with a sense of accomplishment for taking on a new challenge.
Have Fun Exploring. And if your kids come up with a great idea - Go For It!
Thank you Karen for all the fun and unique ways you got our kids (and parents) excited about Braille. This is a wonderful way to understand more people in our community and the world who experience life differently and the same as we do! Thank you!
Coloring a Giant Get Well Card for our Friend in the Hospital
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