Common Family TA Topics

Needs assessment findings suggest that most families need help related to improving their knowledge and skills in the following areas (NCDB, 2017a).

Deaf-Blindness and Communication

• Impact of deaf-blindness or a specific etiology on learning and development 
• Supporting a child’s use of residual senses
• Expressive and receptive communication modes
• Interpreting and responding to a child’s communication
• Assistive technology for fostering expressive and receptive communication
• Supporting communication with new communication partners 
• Challenging behavior 

Supports and Services

• Identifying, understanding, and accessing services
• Collaborating with teachers and other service providers and actively participating as a team member
• Advocating for services and programs
• Transition planning (14-21 years) and the role of the family 
• Post-secondary education/vocational training
• Employment

Community Living

• Self-determination 
• Exploring and moving 
• Daily living activities (e.g., eating, dressing, bathing)
• Active participation in meaningful activities
• Quality friendships and interactions
• Community-based activities and recreation
• Assistive technology for promoting independence

Impact of Deaf-Blindness on the Family

• Awareness of family needs and the importance of self care
• How to actively include the child in family life