from shyness to learning with Perkins – Perkins School for the Blind

Atiqa is a shy 10 year old girl who is blind. For years, Atiqa rarely left home except to visit the mosque, as her mother felt she would not get the care that she needed outside. She never went to school, but became skilled at learning and memorizing the Quran. 

Five months ago, Atiqa’s mother learned about the outreach program run by Perkins’ partner Yayasan Sayap Ibu Banten. At first, her mother was hesitant to attend and only came occasionally. Bonding with new people was also a new challenge for Atiqa.

But slowly, Atiqa started participating in activities led by Perkins-trained teachers at the outreach program, and we found she is a fast learner! Her abilities started developing quickly with the child-centered support and appropriate strategies that her teacher provided. 

Atiqa discovers new skills

Atiqa’s teacher has recently started introducing her to pre-braille literacy; she is learning the braille alphabet using raised dots created from paint. This will help develop foundational concepts and tactile readiness to eventually read braille. She even brings a slate and stylus, a tool for printing braille, home where she is excited to practice. 

We have introduced self-development and functional activities, like learning how to navigate using a white cane. Atiqa is excited to join vocational classes soon, where she may learn to make soap or package snacks alongside peers and family members.

With these fun and meaningful activities, Atiqa is engaged and excited to learn every day. She has become very talkative, excited to discuss what she does with her teacher and family. 

Atiqa’s mother has been amazed at Atiqa’s quick growth, which has made her enthusiastic and willing to take Atiqa to the outreach program almost every day. She now acknowledges that Atiqa needs more opportunities to learn, and she finally believes that Atiqa will have a good future.