[blparent] Better programs to consider

[Arielle Silverman]

Hi Eric and all,
I don't post much on this list since I am not a parent and just read
the posts to learn about childcare techniques that blind people use,
in case I ever end up in a position to care for kids. But I felt
compelled to address a couple of Eric's points here.
First, why on earth should Pipi need a "sighted person she knows and
trusts" in Denver in order to attend CCB? Hundreds, if not thousands,
of blind adults have attended NFB centers out of state without knowing
anyone in the area, sighted or blind. The whole purpose of attending
one of these centers is to learn not to depend on sighted folks at
all. If Pipi needs someone to help with reader tasks like reading
mail, she can hire someone; it doesn't have to be someone she knew
previously.
Second, attending any center costs money. Much of the time, a state
agency for the blind picks up the tab. I don't know Braille
Institute's programs, but I suspect that attending Braille Institute
is normally paid for by a California state agency for the blind, VR,
etc. They may or may not pay for a non-California resident's training.
CCB, too, can be paid for by VR programs. It sounds like Pipi has
either gotten a state agency to sponsor her training at CCB or
budgeted the money herself. Anyway, I'm uncertain whether a California
program would actually cost Pipi less than CCB.
Third, there are clear advantages of NFB training programs (CCB, LCB,
and BLIND Inc.) over other programs. These include a majority of
instructors being blind, use of blindfolds to avoid relying on
residual vision, comprehensive training in all skill areas, and
challenging class assignments that can push even the most skilled
person to expand their skills and confidence. We can debate pros and
cons of NFB centers, but it sounds like Pipi has already made her
decision and just needs help paying for Savannah's care. This would be
an issue no matter what center she goes to, so let's help her with
that instead of questioning her training decision.
Fourth, Pipi, I have a college friend who now lives in Littleton and
is pregnant with her first baby. She said she would forward your blog
post to some new-mom forums she is on and see if anyone knows of
inexpensive options or runs an in-home childcare service that might
meet your needs. She or I will be in touch with you if anything comes
up.
Best,
Arielle

On 4/20/13, Sheila Leigland <sleigland at bresnan.net> wrote:
> Hi eric I grew up in california and am very familiar with the Braille
> institute as well as junior foundation and consider them very good programs.
> In fact if I needed services I would strongly consider them both. Would Pipi
> have to establish residence fhirst and how long does residency take now in
> California?
>
> Sheila Leigland
>
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