10 h o w c a n i h e l p m y c h i l d ?
Sometimes it helps parents to learn about others who, even though they
cannot see, have grown up to lead full and satisfying lives — to have
families of their own, to earn a living, and to become respected members
of their communities. Blind people can achieve this when:
• people understand that blind children, like all children, can learn.
• their families and communities help them succeed.
Here, for example, is what the future held for Rani:
As Rani grew up, she often helped her parents in their shop. By
the time she had finished school, Rani was so good at math she
was able to help with the store’s accounts. She also kept track of
supplies by writing the lists in Braille. Rani’s parents were pleased
with her accomplishments.
When Rani turned
18 her parents accepted
a proposal of marriage
from Mani, a young
man from their village.
Mani and Rani were
married, and after
Rani had her first
baby, she kept the
baby beside her as
she worked at the shop.
Rani was so capable,
people began to rely on
her skills in other ways.
Children asked her to
help with their school
We’ve seen you
manage your accounts.
Can you teach us too?
How proud
I am of
Rani.
work. “Rani usually knows the
answer,” they said. And when some
neighbor women started a weaving
cooperative, they came to Rani for
help setting up their accounts.
Sometimes Rani thinks about
her life and how it might have
been different if she could see.
“Perhaps I would have done less if
I could see,” she says. “Being blind
made me determined to have a life
just like other people.”
helping children who are blind