Stacy’s 9-year-old daughter hosted a backyard pool party for her classmates. Madison, who has low vision, was one of the first guests to arrive.
“She is beyond excited,” Madison’s mom said. “I think she put her bathing suit on before breakfast!”
But Stacy was visibly worried. How could she ensure Madison’s safety? Before she worked up the courage to express her concern, Madison’s mom explained her daughter was an avid swimmer.
“Turns out all she needed was a little help getting in and out of the pool,” said Stacy. “Before we talked, I had built up this elaborate lifeguarding scenario in my head.”
“All I needed was a little perspective. And the girls had so much fun.”
CHANGE THE WAY YOU SEE
Describe the visuals.
If you are serving food, sharing pictures, admiring a sunset or enjoying anything highly visual, describe to your blind guest what’s happening.
Start a conversation.
Blind people enjoy conversation as much as anyone else. Make an effort to include them and to discuss topics other than blindness. Like sighted people, blind people have many interests.
If you are wondering whether a blind person might need special accommodations, just ask. It is better to inquire than to exclude.