These skills form the foundation for literacy, academic access, organization, and independent learning. Compensatory skills include concept development, communication systems, braille and print literacy, mathematical tools, and strategies for efficiently managing information. When taught systematically, these skills allow students to learn and demonstrate knowledge alongside their peers. 

Concept Development

This section focuses on building foundational concepts through hands-on, multisensory experiences. Strong concept development supports understanding of objects, relationships, and the environment, which is essential for academic learning. Access: ​Concept Development

Alternative Communication

This section provides information on communication methods used when visual communication is limited, including tactile symbols, object symbols, and augmentative and alternative communication systems. These tools support expressive and receptive communication. Access: Alternative Communication​

Emergent Literacy

This section addresses early literacy skills such as listening, exploring books, understanding story structure, and developing readiness for braille or print reading. These foundational skills support future literacy development. Access: Emergent Literacy​

Braille Code and Literacy

This section focuses on braille reading and writing skills, including braille code instruction, fluency, and comprehension. Braille literacy supports independent access to written information. Access: Braille Code and Literacy​

Tactile Graphics

This section provides guidance on using tactile graphics to represent visual information such as diagrams, charts, maps, and illustrations. Tactile graphics support concept development and access to academic content. Access: Tactile Graphics​

Print Concepts

This section addresses skills needed to access print effectively, including tracking, scanning, maintaining place, and understanding print layout. Instruction supports efficient visual reading. Access: Print Concepts​

Abacus

This section focuses on teaching the abacus as an efficient tool for completing mathematical calculations. The abacus supports strong number sense and independent math problem-solving. Access: Abacus​

Organization Skills

This section provides strategies to help students organize materials, assignments, and information. Strong organizational skills support independence and academic success. Access: Organization Skills​

Study Skills

This section addresses skills such as note-taking, reviewing material, and preparing for tests. These strategies help students access, retain, and apply information effectively. Access: Study Skills​

Time Management

This section focuses on developing skills to plan, prioritize, and complete tasks efficiently. Time management supports independence, productivity, and academic success. Access: Time Management
​Compensatory skills empower students to access the curriculum, communicate effectively, and function independently across school, home, and community environments. These foundational skills support academic success, confidence, and lifelong independence.

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Full Article List

Guide: Start Here
Tools (VI Basics)
Plan: Referrals & Eligibility
Referral & Eligibility​ ​Medical Vision Information 
FVLMALow Vision Evaluations
Other Evaluations
Plan: IEP Planning
Plan: Collaboration & Accessibility
​Collaboration Accessible Materials ​Classroom Access Instructional Access Technology Access ​Additional Supports Service Delivery Models  ​
Teach: Compensatory Skills
Compensatory Skills
Concept Development ​Alternative Communication ​Emergent Literacy ​Braille Code
​Beginning Braille ​ Braille Fluency & Comprehension  Writing Braille ​​​Nemeth Code Instruction 
​​​Tactile Graphics ​Print Concepts ​​Abacus  ​​Organization Skills​ ​​Study Skills ​​Time Management
Teach: Sensory Efficiency Skills
​Auditory & Listening Skills ​​Visual Efficiency Skills ​​Optical Device Use ​Tactile Readiness
Teach: Assistive Technology 
AT Overview ​AT Use & Maintenance Braille AT ​iOS Instruction Audio Access​ ​Video Magnifiers ​​​Basic Computer Use Computer Access ​Productivity
Teach: Social Skills
Social Skill Basics​
Non-Verbal Skills​​​​ Verbal Communication Skills Cooperative Skills Identity & Self-Awareness ​Interactions & Relationships Managing Challenges & Safety
Teach: Self Determination
Teach: Independent Living Skills
Personal Care ​Hygiene & Grooming ​Personal Health Mealtime Skills ​​​ Food Preparation
Household Skills Clothing Management ​Money & Budget Shopping & Consumerism Phone Use ​Safety & Emergency Preparedness ​​Services & Community Resources
Teach: Orientation & Mobility
Teach: Recreation & Leisure
Teach: Career & Vocational
Printables
Free Resources​ Premium Resource Library 
Teaching Strategy Printables 
​Premium Program Printables
​Premium FVLMA Printables
​ECC PrintablesCompensatory Skills Printables
Sensory Efficiency Printables
Assistive Technology Printables
Social Skills Printables
Self Determination Printables
Independent Living Printables
Recreation & Leisure Printables
Career & Vocational Printables
Evelyn Jane Stories 
Learn: Teaching Strategies & Planning
Learn: ​ECC Units
Beginning of the Year Units ​​Fall UnitsWinter Units ​​Winter Units ​​Spring UnitsAnytime Units
Learn: ​Interactive Activities
Learn: Recorded Presentations
Learn: Complete Set Bonus ​