This is Ksenia – she’s four (and a half) and goes to RLSB’s Nursery.
Ksenia was born with congenital cataracts and glaucoma in both eyes, and is registered blind. Her early years were difficult and frustrating for both Ksenia and her family, and they didn’t know who to turn to for help. When her family found out about RLSB’s award-winning nursery, they were excited about what they heard. So they decided to attend a Drop-in day and haven’t looked back.
A door opening to a new world
Ksenia’s mum, Kristina, described the experience as “like a door opening to a new world.” Soon afterwards, Ksenia’s family received a bursary from RLSB’s Assisted Placement Scheme for her to attend the nursery for two days a week. The improvement in Ksenia’s development since then has been remarkable – she has blossomed into a confident and inquisitive little girl who is eager to learn and loves life. Kristina says: “Children with a visual impairment are so vulnerable, which is why RLSB’s Nursery is so special. The professional and emotional support is fantastic; it’s like a sanctuary.”
“The improvement in Ksenia’s development since then has been remarkable – she has blossomed into a confident and inquisitive little girl “
The Nursery, with its multi-sensory curriculum – including communication and confidence skills, visual stimulation and skills for independent living – allow children like Ksenia to learn and grow in a way that is tailored to them. Maggie Bindon, Nursery Manager says, “early intervention among small children with visual impairment can make such a difference to the quality of their lives. Working closely with parents, we stimulate a child’s residual vision. We support their language development, socialisation skills, ease of movement – the building blocks for later life.”
Achieving great things
Kristina says her daughter can now do things she never thought would be possible; “Ksenia’s now interested in exploring the world, and her language developed straight away. She now sings and walks independently at home, remembering where everything is.” And the future? Kristina smiles. “Ksenia may not know what she looks like, but she knows she’s achieving great things.”
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