[JCNickmom]

We are adopting a little girl who is totally blind. Being visually impaired myself, I'm not as fearful about the whole situation as I might have otherwise been. However, there will be challenges, and being as prepared as possible will help (I hope). I'm very much in agreement that the physical is a breeze compared to the emotiona and attachment issues that can occur. As far as the other kids go, having a blind sibling will just become their normal. Don't overprotect him. Don't make his siblings responsible (beyond their years) for his safety. Accidents will happen, and it's OK. Let him be a normal kid. Also, don't do everything for him. Make him responsible for chores and cleaning up after himself just like the rest of the kids. You'll be doing him a HUGE favor. Challenge him and encourage him to do the very best he can at everything he does. Don't allow fear to be your main motivator in making decisions for him. You will find that a child who is born blind will handle life much differently than a sighted adult who lost their sight later in life. I hope everything works out for you.
Melissa