Blind-Low Vision Early Intervention Program

As of April 1, 2022, Toronto Public Health will no longer provide Preschool Speech and Language, Blind-Low Vision and Infant Hearing Programs. These programs will move from Early Abilities at Toronto Public Health to Surrey Place. Until then, all services will continue to be delivered through the current Preschool-Speech and Language, Infant Hearing and Blind-Low Vision provider sites.

Make sure to have your children’s eyes checked.

 

The Blind-Low Vision Early Intervention Program provides services to children who are blind or have low vision, and their families.  Working in partnership, Toronto Public Health, CNIB and Surrey Place Centre teach parents/caregivers to help support their child’s healthy development.

The program provides assessment, consultation, intervention, education, and support to families and children.  Services for children from birth to age 6 are offered in the child’s home, childcare, and community settings.

Our goal is to support families to help their children to develop to their optimal potential.

Services Offered

Family support

Family Support Workers provide service coordination, counselling and family support, as needed, while your child is receiving Blind – Low Vision Early Intervention Program services.

Early intervention

Early Childhood Vision Consultants (ECVCs) support families and professionals to better understand their child’s visual impairment and to maximize their developmental potential. Consultations take place in the home or community setting.

Who Can Receive These Services

The Blind – Low Vision Early Intervention Program services are available to families who meet the following criteria:

  • live in the City of Toronto with a postal code starting with the letter “M” (example: M3B XXX)
  • are concerned about their child’s vision (for children birth to six years old)
  • have a child who has been diagnosed* with blindness or low vision including cortical visual impairment
  • referrals may be made by parent/caregiver (self-referral) or by any professionals working with the child (with parental consent) by calling 416-338-8255 or by completing the referral form

* We also support families of children waiting for a diagnosis.