Vision Forward Association designs Easter activities for blind and visually impaired kids

MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- Several local children with visual impairments took big steps today towards independence while experiencing some of Easter's more traditional events.

For Khloie Harris life is a bit of a challenge. She is in a wheelchair and visually impaired. But Saturday, her parents try to make it enjoyable.

With the help of Vision Forward, 30 children with visual impairments got to experience an Easter party just like any other.

"We want them to be able to have the exact same experience that their friends or siblings are having," said Kathryn Coppa, teacher for the visually impaired.

So the center created crafts that use different textures.

"Some of our coloring activities have lines that are puffy painted on to them so the kids can feel where the lines are and where to color," said Coppa.

They also brought in a real Easter bunny for a photo op.

"Having a live bunny allows them to experience that tactically. Feel the bunnies breathing, really get to know what a bunny actually is," said Coppa.

The kids were also treated to an Easter egg hunt but instead of using their eyes to look for them, they used their ears to listen.

"We have beeping eggs so the kids can auditorily find the eggs and then they can bring them back to a volunteer for candy," said Coppa.

80% of what a child learns in the first three years of life is acquired visually so these children need activities that stimulate their other senses.

"Last year, Khloie fell asleep but this year she's wide awake so I'm looking forward to it," said Shaneika Baldwin & Marquise Harris, Khloie's parents.

Khloie has cerebral palsy and epilepsy, she's also visually impaired.

"It was kind of difficult to adjust to," said Baldwin & Harris.

But bringing her to events like this is where Khloie can play alongside her sighted peers makes her parents hopeful.

"I have faith and I believe she's going to get better," said Baldwin & Harris.

The kids were able to take home all their crafts and Easter eggs and received an Easter basket full of treats.

For more information on Vision Forward, CLICK HERE.