Children with deaf-blindness need to be encouraged to explore their environment
using all their senses. This exploration will help the child build skills
in all areas of development.
You can encourage the child to explore his surroundings in the following
ways:
1. Remove dangerous and valuable objects from the area, so the child will
not fear getting hurt or getting in trouble. If you need to say "No"
too many times, the child may not want to explore further.
2. Attach objects to the child's chair, car seat, stroller or wheelchair
to allow contact with objects. They can be placed next to the child's body
without touching his hands or face, _ The child may just allow them to be
there at first and later will explore them with his hands.
3. Games with objects can also be played, placing objects inside the child's
clothing to encourage the child to search for the object. Be sure to avoid
those very sensitive areas of the child's body and begin the games with
body parts where he allows touch.
4. Place objects a few inches away from the child's hands to make it easier
for him to find the objects. He may accidentally bump into it and explore
it further.
5. Combine the use of senses by adding light to noisemakers, vibration to
sound, and interesting textures to brightly colored objects to encourage
the child to use his remaining vision or hearing. An example would include
feeling the vibration of a piano, placing a musical toy on a lighted surface,
etc. These added senses will help to attract the child's attention.
Adapted from Sternberg-White, S., Chen D., Watts, J., 1992,
Developing Social-Emotional Skills, INSITE, Utah State University, Logan,
Utah
Fact sheets from California Deaf-Blind Services are to be
used by both families and professionals serving individuals with dual sensory
impairments. The information applies to students 0-22 years of age. The
purpose of the fact sheet is to give general information on a specific topic.
More specific information for an individual student can be provided through
individualized technical assistance available from CDBS. The fact sheet
is a starting point for further information.
Order #013 rev. 3/12/94