End of Summer Playgroup

This week was the last session of summer playgroup at the Western Pennsylvania School for Blind Children (WPSBC). Unfortunately, we had to miss the last one because we were getting new furniture delivered that morning. I am hoping they have another playgroup session in the fall.

Banging on the giant drum at summer playgroup

Tom is an only child so he has limited opportunities to play with other kids. When there are other kids around they are usually too quick for him. He just begins to sit down and play and the kids are already running off to play with something else. It's not easy for Tom and it's especially not easy for me to see him get left behind. That's what so great about playgroup! He has the opportunity to learn and play in a supportive environment. They play games and sing songs just like any other preschoolers.

I have been looking for other playgroup opportunities around Pittsburgh for special needs kids but I haven't found anything. That is something I have been thinking about working on. Since I haven't found any groups maybe I should try to start a group?

I think it will get a little easier for Thomas to interact with new people once he gets some O&M (orientation and mobility) training. He can walk about 15 steps independently but he gets frustrated when he bumps into things. O&M training will teach him to move independently and confidently.

He still likes to walk with us. I think he will be more independent once he gets a cane.

We will have to say goodbye to the TVI (Teacher of the Visually Impaired) that Thomas has had since he was 2 months old, when we get our new O&M therapist. An O&M therapist is another type of blindness professional with an additional certification in teaching the blind to move safely and independently. Our therapists are provided through our local Early Intervention provider and you can only have one type of vision therapist for your child. While we are excited to meet our new therapist, we will miss Norma!

I know once Tom gets going I won't be able to stop him. I'll be wishing he would slow down! And I kinda can't wait for that.


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