[blindkid] O&M eval, FVA

[H. Field]

Hello Marie,
I think it's a marvellous idea to order Jack a cane from the NFB. 
However, I believe the Free Cane Program is primarily for adults and 
older children. I don't think they have canes the size Jack will need 
for free. However, you can purchase him one online from the 
Independence Market. Just click on the link from the homepage.

Jack needs a cane that comes up to his nose. I would recommend a 
carbon fibre cane because they are strong. Some folks may advise that 
a cane that comes up to his nose is too long. However, a long cane 
touches objects far enough in front of a blind person to give them 
plenty of notice - at least two strides - so that they can stop or 
avoid without bumping it. This ensures that the blind cane user can 
walk at the same rate - many children run - as other children do.

As a blind cane user myself, I have tried all lengths and have 
concluded that the long canes are by far the best option to promote 
freedom of movement, confidence and independence. I also work with 
young blind children all the time and am constantly thrilled by 
watching the liberation that occurrs when they realise what a 
difference the long cane makes for their safety and thus, their 
confidence to move.

Best regards,

Heather Field

----- Original Message ----- 
From: <empwrn at bellsouth.net>
To: "NFBnet Blind Kid Mailing List,(for parents of blind children)" 
<blindkid at nfbnet.org>
Sent: Wednesday, April 08, 2009 2:49 PM
Subject: Re: [blindkid] O&M eval, FVA


You know what's really interesting? We don't know when exactly Jack's 
vision became so bad but now I think it might be why he took soooooo 
long to walk independently. He loved his push toys and just would not 
let go. He had this box that he pushed around everywhere! Now that he 
walks independently I don't know if we could get him to use a walker 
type thing again.
I saw the free white can from NFB. Does anyone know what size I should 
order? I'm thinking that maybe we'll get a cane and see how he does 
with it.
Any thoughts?

Marie-more about Jack- www.allaccesspasstojack.blogspot.com
www.apert.org
www.thecraniofacialcenter.org
Sent from my Palm Treo


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