"My child cannot see facial expressions or body language. She can't recognise people at a distance; how will she manage in the playground?"
"I always arrange to meet my friends at the school office so we can go to lunch together and chat on the way. School's good fun - I've got friends there!"
Social interaction for young people who are blind or partially sighted can be difficult. Your child may miss out on some of the visual clues and body language that people use to establish friendships.
How the school can help
Schools should be working to support your child's social needs, as well as academic needs. If you have concerns about your child's emotional wellbeing within school, raise it with your child's teacher or at an IEP (Individual Education Plan) or Annual Review meeting. Staff will then plan how to encourage your child to interact with others, both in the classroom and in the playground.
At first, this may need to be closely structured, but as your child grows in confidence and builds friendships, they won't need as much support.
After school clubs
After school clubs should be available to your child, whatever their level of sight loss. Discuss with the school if you feel your child may benefit from extra-curricular activities.
Remember, all children have individual personalities. Some children don't want to be always playing with others; they like time to themselves, or with one special friend. Children with sight problems are no different.