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STEPS-CHILDREN'S PROGRAM

SUPPLEMENTAL TECHNOLOGY & EXPERIENTIAL PROGRAM FOR SUCCESS

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

For school age children app. 6-13 years of age

Children who are blind face unique challenges in their lives, and it's important to provide them with the necessary resources and support to help them thrive. The STEPS Program makes a significant difference in the lives of these children by providing them with education, socialization, adaptive technology, vocational training, and emotional support. By prioritizing these important resources, the STEPS program helps children who are blind to reach their full potential.

STEPS FOCUSES ON THE FOLLOWING AREAS:

ASSESSMENT

Education is critical for blind children, and a Blind Children's Program prioritizes providing them with the education they need to succeed. This includes Braille instruction, specialized technology to assist with learning, and access to qualified teachers who are trained to work with blind students.

SOCIALIZATION

Blind children may face social isolation due to their disability, when enrolled in our Blind Children's Program we address this issue. Our program provides opportunities for blind children to interact with their peers and participate in recreational activities. This can help to build their confidence and improve their social skills.

ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY

​Technology can be a game-changer for blind children, and our Blind Children's Program provides access to assistive technology that can help them navigate the world. This can include screen readers, Braille displays, and other adaptive devices that can help them access information and communicate with others.

VOCATIONAL TRAINING

Blind children may face unique challenges when it comes to finding employment as adults, but our Blind Children's Program can help to prepare them for the workforce. We provide vocational training and job placement services to help blind children build the skills they need to succeed in their careers.

EMOTIONAL SUPPORT

Blind children may face emotional challenges related to their disability, and our Blind Children's Program provides access to emotional support resources. This can include counseling services, support groups, and other resources to help blind children and their families navigate the emotional challenges they may face.

FIELD TRIPS

The program meets during the school year on weekends as well as a summer camp. During these times, the children engage in many fun and exciting field trips including but not limited to the following: 

  • Trips to Discover Cove, Disney, Sea World in Orlando

  • Exotic Petting Zoo 

  • Collaboration with Stetson University and Atlantic Center for the Arts called Sound Seekers Program

  • Swimming with the Dolphins

  • Rock Climbing

  • Escape Room Adventure

  • Sailing

  • Painting and Sculpture classes

  • Horseback Riding

  • Visiting Museums

  • Swimming lessons 

  • Baseball games 

  • Bowling

  • Cooking classes

  • Music activities

Students completing this program are encouraged to advance into CDCVI’s Transition Program designed for children and young adults 14-22 years of age.  

MEET ONE OF OUR STUDENTS!

She was one of our STEPS students, who tells us about how she wants to be a professional horseback rider when she grows up!

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