Guide Dogs is stepping up its support for families who have a child with sight loss

The charity Guide Dogs has launched a new service in Scotland for families who are supporting a child with sight loss.

My Time to Play helps children with a vision impairment from birth to four years learn important developmental skills in a fun and supportive group setting, and is free to the family.

Roughly 80% of learning is visual which means children with sight loss need to learn about and explore the world in a slightly different way. The My Time to Play service is designed to help children do exactly this whilst achieving key development goals.

There will be seven sessions led by Guide Dogs Habilitation Specialists, who are experts on children with sight loss. This free service also benefits parents, enabling them to meet other parents in a similar situation so experiences, skills and knowledge can be shared. Siblings are welcome to attend to join in the fun.

Lisa Petrie, head of children, young people and families at Guide Dogs, said: “Discovering a child has a vision impairment can be a worrying and confusing time for families. Every year we help hundreds of families build their skills, knowledge, and confidence, and provide tailored support that is right for each family’s specific needs. Small adaptations and innovations can really support families to help their children to live the life they choose.”

Weekly sessions start on 1 July, online over Zoom for one hour. Face to face sessions may run later in the year once restrictions allow. To register to take part call 0800 781 1444 or email children@guidedogs.org.uk. Guide Dogs Scotland offers a range of services for children with sight loss, including buddy dogs - a well behaved canine companion, custom made books and technology support. Find out more information online.