[blindkid] need for more or different O&M instruction

[Joy Orton]

Dear Doreen in Florida and others,

I wanted to weigh in on the "weak hand grip" with a practical idea.
Playing with play-dough is fun for increasing hand strength. I like to
make my own and let my kids help stir and also mix in coloring or
scent. You can add vanilla extract, mint or lemon extract, or other
things that smell good.

There is a good resource for teaching O&M yourself. It is "Modular
Instruction for Independent Travel for Students Who Are Blind or
Visually Impaired" by Doris Willoughby and Sharon Monthei. If the
school won't teach your child, you can definitely do some lessons on
your own. You get to decide what kind and length of cane for the child
to use, and whether sleep shades would be an appropriate teaching tool
for you.

Remember that every outing you take with your kids--grocery store,
playground, buying new shoes, walking the dog--is an opportunity to
let them practice mobility and get a little more independent. Even
though it's easier to just let them take your arm, it pays off if you
make them walk alone. I really struggled at first; I wanted to hold on
to my "baby" even when she was four years old. Now she is ten and
walks alone well. I get compliments on her skills; I hope she does
too. (smile)

Hope this helps!
Joy