Reproduction and anatomy are a very small part of the larger realm of sexual and social development. Very young children can identify gender difference, cultural expectations, and partner relationships simply by observing the world around them. For children with vision impairment, these observations can be delayed, and often confusing. We can sometimes forget that children grow up quickly, and we must be able to relate to that young child as a future adolescent and adult.

Social skills training begins within the child’s immediate family: between parents and children, and between siblings. In the larger community, a child can experience isolation if he or she cannot negotiate the complex social cues of age, gender, and relationship. There are appropriate situations for hugging and appropriate situations for shaking hands. People with disabilities are exceptionally vulnerable to exploitation, and must be able to recognize potential dangers.

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