148 s u p p o r t f o r p a r e n t s a n d c a r e g i v e r s
Starting a group
Find 2 or more parents who want to start a group. If you do not know
other parents whose children cannot see well, you may want to include
parents of children with other disabilities. A health worker may know of
parents in nearby communities.
Plan when and where to meet. It helps to find a quiet place, like a
school, health post, cooperative, or place of worship. At the first meeting,
discuss why you are meeting and what you hope to do.
Probably one person will be the leader of the first few meetings. But it is
important that no one person makes decisions for the group. Everyone
should have a chance to talk, but try to keep the discussion focused on
the main reasons for the meeting. After the first few meetings, take turns
leading the group. Having more than one person lead each meeting will
help shy members participate.
Learning to support each other
Even when parents know each other well, it may take time to feel
comfortable talking about feelings, experiences, and the challenges of
raising a child with disabilities. These things take practice. Here are some
suggestions for helping group members feel comfortable and trust one
another:
Listen carefully to what others say, without judging it. Think about
how you want others to listen to you, and then try to listen to them in
the same way.
Can you try to
explain it again?
Pearl, I’m not sure
I understand what
you are saying.
helping children who are blind