Remote O&M and VI Instruction Ideas
Compiled by Jennifer Freeman, Orientation and Mobility Specialist
For more ideas please follow me on RocktheCane on Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/rockthecane/
*As this document gets longer, the recommended way to search this document for content that you are looking for is to use the control “f” feature and search by skill such as “daily living. If you have trouble accessing any of the links or worksheets please email me at jfreeman@eusd.org and I will share them with you that way.*
Links to online learning opportunities in the VI Field:
- Paths to Literacy is offering an Virtual Expanded Core Education
- American Printing House of the Blind (APH) offers a Virtual Excel Academy
- Objective Ed offers Distance Learning
https://www.objectiveed.com/distance
- Working Together to Support Students with Visual Impairments to Access Curriculum
- Coronavirus Resources by American Foundation for the Blind (AFB)
https://www.afb.org/blog/topic/coronavirus-covid-19
- Games that Enhance O&M Experiences for Children
- Coping with School Closures During COVID-19 By Paths to Literacy
https://www.pathstoliteracy.org/blog/coping-school-closures-during-covid-1
- Other Professional Ideas (some of the ideas I merged with what is above) https://docs.google.com/document/d/1wNjResbqVWKuQqew0OcuuXd2I4o5ZC4WZc27zE7Ywww/mobilebasic?fbclid=IwAR0HU8URl4S1ROzCwyKIiYnD5bToClK7tS6p4TISBdnWjnUvwLhpQCcRi7g
9. The Humanware Buddy App- A tool to interact with Humanware Products
http://www.humanware.ca/web/en/newsletter/170120201345.htm
- Freedom Scientific- They are offering free Zoom, JAWS and Fusion free on personal computers until June 30,2020
https://www.freedomscientific.com/
- Coming Together During COVID 19 Concerns and Connections
https://www.nfb.org/blog/coming-together-during-covid-19-concerns-and-connections
- Paths to Literacy- Volunteers Working Together to Support Students with Visual Impairments and Family Members who Have Visual Impairment So Children Can Access Curriculum
- Virtual O&M Instruction Presented by the School for the Blind e-Learning
- 150 Homeschooling Resources for Special Education OT/PT/All Subjects
https://adayinourshoes.com/homeschool-therapy-resources-iep/
- Texas School for the Blind Outreach Online Programs
https://www.tsbvi.edu/outreach
- Sterling Adaptives, which have Zoom meetings in the following areas:
Free Technical Support from Sterling Adaptives!, Introduction to OrCam MyEye, LVI America MagniLink S (MLS) Webinar, Open Question and Answer BrailleNote Touch Plus, Introduction to Zoomax Handheld Magnifiers, LVI America MagniLink TAB, Open Question and Answer HIMS Polaris and HumanWare Braille Products
- AER Viewpoint
http://multibriefs.com/briefs/AERBVI/AERBVI033120.php
Free Resources for Teachers of the Blind and Visually Impaired including streaming library educational resources as well as other articles.
- This is from Top Tech Tidbits newsletter. Three Timely Books Available Free From NBP
Until the end of April 2020, people can download these books free: 'Getting Visual Assistance with an iPhone', 'Navigating Healthcare When All They Can See Is that You Can't', and 'Dinner Delivered'. 'Accessible and Easy Ways to Receive Meals Direct to Your Door'. Hard copy is half price once the office is open for shipping:
- Youth PLUG-In offers 3 ways for transition-age youth to stay involved and increase your social well-being, pre-employment and transition, and Expanded Core Curriculum skills:
- What: The National Homework Hotline for Blind/Visually Impaired Students (NHH-BVI) is a free service for K-12 and college students in the United States who are experiencing school closures due to COVID-19.
http://www.vistaseducation.com/homeworkhotline/
21.SEMINAR FOR SIMULATION EXPERIENCES FOR TEACHING STREET CROSSINGS WITH NO TRAFFIC CONTROLS (Info and Registration link below):
https://www.facebook.com/groups/252989878064486/permalink/3341391449224298/
22. Parent Mobility: This is an amazing resource for Families
http://parentmobility.com/?fbclid=IwAR270GAJr8_xJG7tBadmULIAHRT3aS0O7sbf6ikV34fKBDK06e96XcGBqCc
23. National Federation for the Blind Distance Learning Opportunities
http://parentmobility.com/?fbclid=IwAR270GAJr8_xJG7tBadmULIAHRT3aS0O7sbf6ikV34fKBDK06e96XcGBqCc
Or
Learning from your Living Room
https://www.facebook.com/groups/128594603915553/permalink/2605145132927142/
24. Remote Instruction and Services for Blind and Low Vision Participants by AFB (they go over remote learning)
25. Guide Dog Online Workshops for Students
Or
More Coming up Next Month posted on FaceBook
https://www.facebook.com/groups/252989878064486/permalink/3337554572941319/
26. This non-profit that I used to work for in New York is an amazing program for extracurricular activities for our population of students. BackYard Players & Friends is an inclusive arts-based community program, open to the public, for people of all abilities.They created a lot of virtual classes and are still uploading more! I shared this website with my students' families and added it to my google classroom and thought you may want it as well. Let me know if you have any questions!
https://www.bypandfriends.com/virtual-activies
27. Blindness Support Services spoke about how they were supporting clients virtually. http://blindnesssupport.com/
28. Using Accessible Media in the Classroom with Students who are Blind and Visually Impaired
Explores the benefits of using media in the classroom. Explains the importance of accessible media for students with sensory impairments as well as students with and without disabilities. Learn to evaluate the quality of accessibility features and various techniques for utilizing media to enhance classroom instruction. This class is three weeks of asynchronous, online training. Choose your preferred time during the week to work online and meet weekly deadlines. Expect to spend approximately five hours per week completing the required work. When you successfully complete the class, you will receive a certificate for 15 continuing education credits. Free of charge and fully accessible.
Go to www.dcmp.org and create your account or sign in. Once your account is set up, log in and go to https://elearn.dcmp.org/learner_dashboard/. There you'll find the registration form for the class, listed under the "opportunities" section.
29. National Braille Press
30. Using Your Cell Phone to Turn Printed Material Into a Google Document Youtube video
31. Techy Tips for TVI’s (Freedom Scientific, Jaws, Google, NVDA, AFB) https://www.techytvi.com/post/google-with-jaws-nvda-etc?fbclid=IwAR0UZpG-yh3F_hhriaBmHyY7lAm-A1dl2f0z8-6VDsN612N5LpQ7AO9h3yU
32. Australian nature is full of strange, surprising and sometimes silly sounds. From cicadas that sound like sprinklers to moaning mutton birds, there are heaps of weird noises to discover.
33. Scribe for Education- Free Accessible Documents on Demand during the Coronavirus
34. California School for the Blind Covid-19 Updates: Parent Resources for Virtual at Home Learning and
35. TVI Blog with basic CVI information
https://wow.boomlearning.com/author/tvicesa4wi?collection=Decks&sort=publishDate&order=-1
36. Upcoming Virtual O&M Opportunities
37. Colorado School for the Blind
FAST and Zoom, Zoom and FAST: Our FAST Program for Blind Youth goes virtual This Friday!
https://cocenter.org/fast-and-zoom-zoom-and-fast-our-fast-…/
Editor's Note: Here's some news from Youth Director Martin Becerra-Miranda. He's been busy hosting lots of Zoom meetings for our staff and ITP students for the past month. But he's also had time to think about what he wants to do with our FAST (Fun Skills Activities and Training) for youth, and maybe, just maybe, he misses the real energy of working with kids. So we're going virtual with FAST starting this Friday!
Who?
Blind students of all ages and their family members
Where?
This will be a virtual meeting on the Zoom platform
When?
Friday, April 24, 2020 at 7:00 PM
Observing “Social Distancing” guidelines doesn’t have to mean being socially disconnected. The Colorado Center for the Blind FAST program will therefore host a virtual get-together every other Friday evening at 7:00 PM., starting April 24.
April 24: We have all been doing school and work online for weeks now. Some of it is going okay, but there are also real barriers for blind students in the virtual classroom. In light of this ever-changing virtual learning landscape our blind and visually impaired students face due to the pandemic, the Colorado Center for the Blind wants to know how this is affecting blind and visually impaired students and to see if there are resources we can offer. We know that by now, most if not all of your school districts have made the difficult decision that in-person classes will not return the remainder of this school year. The Colorado Center for the Blind, the National Federation of the Blind of Colorado and the National Federation of the Blind stand together in supporting your educational and extracurricular needs.
Here are a couple of resources to get started with:
Don’t Be A Barrier, Be accessible Now
Complete the Education Technology Survey
Oh, and we’ll definitely include some fun and “social” activities too!
For additional information or to receive the Zoom Meeting link/phone number, please contact Martin Becerra-Miranda by emailing mbecerra@cocenter.org
Be safe, be kind and be fair,
38. Virtual Resource for Parents by the California Parents of Blind Children Division
If you are a Blind parent or a parent of a blind child you are probably finding that distance-learning can be a challenge. The National Federation of the Blind California Parents of Blind Children division would like to invite you to participate in a zoom conference call that will occur every Saturday at 1 PM Pacific standard time. This will be a place where parents can share experiences and offer support to one another. We will discuss many topics including but not limited to IEP’s, accessibility, and children’s social and emotional development and well-being during school closures. We will also be focusing on parents struggles and emotional well-being during this time since we cannot forget to also take care of ourselves. If we are not taking care of our own needs we are not going to be as able to help our children. We hope to see you there!
Jeanette Jones is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.
Topic: Parents corner
Time: This is a recurring meeting Meet anytime
Join Zoom Meeting
Meeting ID: 209 589 6058
Password: 4187
One tap mobile
+16699009128,,2095896058#,,#,4187# US (San Jose)
+13462487799,,2095896058#,,#,4187# US (Houston)
Dial by your location
+1 669 900 9128 US (San Jose)
+1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)
+1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)
+1 646 558 8656 US (New York)
+1 253 215 8782 US
+1 301 715 8592 US
Meeting ID: 209 589 6058
Password: 4187
Find your local number: https://zoom.us/u/a6PogiGub
39. Youth of Tomorrow’s monthly Social group will meet Saturday, May 9 from 1pm-3pm. We will casually discuss how much it would cost to live independently and whether our spending habits have changed since sheltering in place. We will end by enjoying the movie Up with audio description and appreciate how important savings are in a fun and Pixar way!
Who: Students ages 14-24
What: Youth of Tomorrow Social Group
When: Saturday May 9 from 1pm - 3pm
Where: Zoom link will be sent a week before the event
RSVP to Amy Jine ajine@vistacenter.org or call or text 415-886-7049
Like us on Facebook to follow all of our events
40. National Federation for the Blind Distance Learning Resources
41. Education of the Visually Impaired by Sarah Hughes. It looks like she is building her website/blog but she is adding a lot of useful things!
42. PLEASE REACH OUT TO YOUR STUDENTS' PARENTS AND TELL THEM: DON'T DELAY. ORDER TODAY! There are many free resources to help our children, but many organizations are closing their doors due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Please enjoy this resource list, and please consider ordering any items (free long white canes, free slates and styluses) soon--before their availability is suspended due to COVID-19: Free or Low-cost Sources for Tools Blindness-Low Vision Tools
CANE TRAVEL RESOURCES
LONG WHITE CANES
- FREE: Long white canes provided through a program of the National Federation of the Blind (NFB) and the American Action Fund (AAF) https://freecane.nfb.org//
- FREE: For blind/low vision children from birth through seven years old, the free Early Explorers, part of the Early Childhood Initiative program offered by the National Federation of the Blind (NFB) https://www.nfb.org/programs-services/early-childhood-initiatives/early-childhood-application
- FREE: YouTube video discussing the importance of the long white cane and providing information and guidance to parents in the Hows and Whys of cane travel https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nrKXqpGr_cI
- FREE: YouTube video, Little Long Canes, where master cane instructor Joe Cutter explains the reasons for early cane travel exploration and providing parents ideas for early instruction https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CHEd3ZMhK8I
BRAILLE RESOURCES
BRAILLE WRITING
- FREE: Slates and styluses provided through a program of the National Federation of the Blind (NFB) and the American Action Fund (AAF) https://freeslates.nfb.org//
BRAILLE INFORMATION
- FREE: Chart of the Braille English alphabet https://www.dropbox.com/s/izejd2p4ptyhjwo/UEB%20Contraction%20Chart%20from%20Duxbury.pdf?dl=0
- FREE: Chart of all contractions used in literary Unified English Braille (UEB) https://www.dropbox.com/s/izejd2p4ptyhjwo/UEB%20Contraction%20Chart%20from%20Duxbury.pdf?dl=0
- FREE: Basic Nemeth Code “cheat sheet” https://accessinghigherground.org/handouts2013/HTCTU%20Alt%20Format%20Manuals/Math%20Accommodations/04a%20Nemeth%20Code%20Cheat%20Sheet.pdf?fbclid=IwAR2fAyGU91bBAStf94gQUumRCu8Swe7T8-nOpcAXMxNpiCTN2AQdDoNdNgA
- FREE: TSBVI page about Nemeth Code for Advanced math (Algebra 1 and 2 and Geometry) https://www.tsbvi.edu/resources-math/1552-nemeth-code-reference-sheets?fbclid=IwAR0Pg6PxWeqVYO9DDbRPcBlMqCyPDSLe8hkEtEdR8PScgaNGa9ZC1p7MgMA
- FREE: When should a child know what Braille? Maryland College and Career Ready Standards for Unified English Braille Checklist (PDF) https://mdk12.msde.maryland.gov/INSTRUCTION/commoncore/Documents/MD_CCRS_UEB_BrlChklst.pdf
BRAILLE READING
- FREE: For blind/low vision children from birth through seven years old, the free Braille Reading Pals program, part of the Early Childhood Initiative program offered by the National Federation of the Blind (NFB) https://www.nfb.org/programs-services/early-childhood-initiatives/early-childhood-application
- FREE: ShareBraille—an online resource provided by the American Action Fund (AAF) to connect with others who have Braille books to give away. Search the site which has thousands of books listed, and request a book. The current owner will then send it to you via “Free Matter” through the U.S. Post Office https://sharebraille.org/
- FREE, but not currently available: Seedlings Braille Books for Children's 2020 Book Angel Program for V-I Children: “Announcement: Due to health concerns, we are now working from home until 4/6. This may change as conditions change. We will try to keep you updated here. Please email us if we can be of help. Thank you for your patience & understanding!” http://www.seedlings.org/bkangel2009.php
- FREE, but not currently available: Braille Institute Special Collection: “In an abundance of caution regarding the Coronavirus, Braille Institute centers are closed with classes and services suspended through at least April 26” https://www.brailleinstitute.org/special-collection
- LOW COST: BRL—Beulah Reimer Legacy—VERY reasonably priced, high-quality Braille books https://www.beulahreimerlegacy.com/
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Sample below of how to stay organized by tracking goals, services, providing tips and documentation of contact with parent’s during this pandemic. You can also check out a more extensive example that includes goals by going to this link: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1tzXa29hziN8LEhj38gFt5jB8LOG0uq0rSfAHtHyeop0/edit?usp=sharing
(email me at jfreeman@eusd.org if you are unable to view this link)
Student: Jane Smith
Recommendation of O&M Services between 4/14/2020-6/2/2020: 120 minutes direct service via Zoom, Google Hangout, Class Dojo, Remind, Facetime, text, through emails and distribution of materials
GOALS for Jane:
- By annual review 2020, Jane will use a long cane to independently and safely walk on a community sidewalk for 2 consecutive minutes without prompts, as observed by the orientation and mobility specialist.
Ways to Support Goals:
- Send video links I created demonstrating how to walk on a sidewalk while using a long cane
- By annual review 2020, Jane will demonstrate the ability to gain a minimum of 8 new tasks from the Michigan Independent Living Skills 4th grade checklist with 100% accuracy, as measured by the orientation and mobility specialist.
Ways to Support Goals:
- Michigan Independent Living Skills Checklist
https://mdelio.org/blind-visually-impaired/expanded-core-curriculum/independent-living-skills
- Coordinate with parent shared ILS checklist and send videos, blogs and pictures of skills to work on narrowed down from the list
- this is a blog I wrote about supporting Meal Time Independence
- https://alliedindependenceonline.com/blog/teaching-meal-time-skills-to-students-with-visual-and-multiple-impairments-1
This is a link to learning table skills:
Tuesday, April 28- this one could support the order from a restaurant skill if you’d like to attend this Zoom session or work on the skill listed below
Title of the Lesson/Activity: Community Connections: Intro to Restaurants (Part 1)
Instructor: Robbin Keating-Clark
Instructor’s Title: Expanded Core Curriculum Coordinator
Instructor’s Affiliation: Utah Schools for the Deaf & Blind
Instructor’s email: robbinc@usdb.org
Primary Core or ECC Area: All 9 areas!
Target Audience: Upper elementary through high school age who are moderate to typically developing
Prerequisite Knowledge: Think of 5 restaurants in the community! Know the name and what kind of food choices they offer.
Lesson Plan Goal: Students will identify skills for independence in three main restaurants: fast food, casual dining and upscale.
Materials Needed: None
- By annual review 2020, Jane will demonstrate the ability to stay in step and rhythm while using her long cane, on 2 out of 3 occasions, as observed by the orientation and mobility specialist.
Ways to Support Goals:
- Send video links I created demonstrating how to walk on a sidewalk while using a long cane
ESCONDIDO UNION SCHOOL DISTRICT
SPECIAL EDUCATION- ORIENTATION & MOBILITY
ACTION LOG
Date Action Initials
4/14/2020 (10:30-10:45am) | Waited on a Zoom phone call with VI for parent and had to reschedule for 11:15 am because parent was in the car | |
4/14/2020 (11:30-11:40am) (10 minutes) | We did a Zoom meeting with Student, VI and her mom | |
4/14/2020 (11:45-11:50am) (5 minutes) | Sent email links of Michigan ILS calendar and skills to work on | |
A parent of my student asked me to make a daily calendar O&M based on my goals and daily living skills recommendations so here is an example of what it looks like:
O&M Calendar
Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday |
4/20 Put stamps on letters or bills | 4/21 Change the toilet paper rolls. | 4/22 Listen to story about the post office Write about or text what you learned and send a copy to Ms. Jen | 4/23 Learn at least 4 street names in your neighborhood. Write about or text what you learned and send a copy to Ms. Jen | 4/24 Use cane to walk to Ms. Jen’s house to get your prize |
4/27 Make a sandwich Check out the iDo Food app for iPads https://apps.apple.com/us/app/ido-food-kids-special-needs-learn-dining-skills-full/id931891855 | 4/28 Join zoom call about restaurants @ 11:00 am https://www.pathstoliteracy.org/resources/Virtual-ExCEL-Academy#week_4 Tuesday, April 28 Title of the Lesson/Activity: Community Connections: Intro to Restaurants (Part 1) Instructor: Robbin Keating-Clark Instructor’s Title: Expanded Core Curriculum Coordinator Instructor’s Affiliation: Utah Schools for the Deaf && Blind Instructor’s email: robbinc@usdb.org Primary Core or ECC Area: All 9 areas! Target Audience: Upper elementary through high school age who are moderate to typically developing Prerequisite Knowledge: Think of 5 restaurants in the community! Know the name and what kind of food choices they offer. Lesson Plan Goal: Students will identify skills for independence in three main restaurants: fast food, casual dining and upscale. Materials Needed: None | 4/29 Clear off the table after dinner | 4/30 Join zoom call about restaurants on April 30th Part 2 (see link from 4/28) | 5/1 Use cane to walk to Ms. Jen’s house to get your prize |
5/4 Learn about bus etiquette: -- Always enter and exit the front door only so the driver will see you. -- Do not wear headphones so you can pay attention and listen. -- No eating or drinking on the bus. -- You must have exact change if you have to pay for your ride. As of our last lesson it was $2.50 per one way trip and $6 for a day pass. | 5/5 Help take out the trash | 5/6 Compare a debit card, credit card and gift card | 5/7 Read the banking story I sent to Isable’s phone. Go over banking vocabulary. | 5/8 Have a zoom meeting with Ms. Jen to do a bus planning lesson at 1:00 pm |
___________________________________________________________________________
Sensory Skills
- Listening outdoors for period of time and having learner report what they heard
- Clapping hands in different sized rooms in house to see how they size of room changes sounds
- “Sensory Adventure” around the house and backyard. What did you find for each of your senses (auditory, tactile, visual, olfactory, kinesthetic, proprioceptive)?
- Build or plant a sensory garden. Discuss gardening skills.
- Explore all of the spices and how the food and products smell in your home
- Link to O&M Sensory Scavenger Hunt in both English and Spanish
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1c9qsEbkediebCmsTTkeyR-VkvNp7vntyfUTcAZ_eiq0/edit?usp=sharing
Apps
- Several blogs created regarding apps by Jennifer Freeman and posted on Cane and Compass:
Part 1, Tips and Tricks for Incorporating Technology into O&M: https://caneandcompass.com/2018/05/02/om-tips-and-tricks-to-incorporating-technology-and-apps-into-lessons-part-1/,
Part 2, Orientation apps:
Part 3, Money Concepts: https://caneandcompass.com/2018/05/29/om-instructional-guide-to-incorporating-technology-and-apps-into-lessons-part-3/,
Here is a link to a money folding worksheet:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1RqA3PHT6VTbmiNqXyVHnCVTDeR3wiD3KO5XUsm5CW-E/edit?usp=sharing
Part 4 Grocery Shopping:
https://caneandcompass.com/?s=grocery+shopping or
The Alexa Show: https://caneandcompass.com/2018/04/17/how-to-incorporate-amazon-products-that-speak-into-om-instruction/,
Let’s Get Technical: https://caneandcompass.com/2018/03/11/lets-get-technical-an-oms-guide-to-the-o6-bluetooth-remote/
- Orientation and Related Mobility Apps by Paths to Literacy:
https://www.pathstoliteracy.org/blog/orientation-mobility-apps
- Sound Identification
- Navigation
- Photo
- Safety
- Traffic Concepts / Games
- Communication
- Writing Board
- Puzzle
- Miscellaneous
- Visual Skills
- Teaching Students with Visual Impairments by Carmen Williams has a list of the following apps in each of these categories:
https://www.teachingvisuallyimpaired.com/apps-for-vi.html
- Note Taking Apps
Apps for Accessing Books
Identification Apps
Navigation & Location Apps
Braille Apps
Magnifier Apps
Sound Apps
Cause & Effect Apps
Vision Skills Apps
Apps for Early Learning
- Plan travel, such as the student using their smartphone to plan routes, public transportation options, etc. See blog app
- Listening to podcasts related to using apps; can be listened to with learners or shared as an assignment. (Google search for them, YouTube collections from Hadley, Schools for the Blind, App developers websites, etc.)
- Comparing apps like TapTapSee, Microsoft Seeing AI, and Be My Eyes to determine which provides information that is the most helpful for them, how easy they are to use their features, etc.
- Practice scanning barcodes on items found around the home
- Practice scanning documents, menus, directories, etc. (items to scan can be downloaded and printed at home and then scanned)
- Virtually exploring home neighborhoods with Nearby Explorer from APH (free version available) or Google Maps with Street View
- Explore all VI apps out there https://www.right-hear.com/top-apps-for-visually-impaired-people/
- Work on calendar skills. Practice adding appointments and things to your Google Calendar.
- There are many accessible concept related apps. Use trial and error to find some that work for the individual in areas of body part concepts, shapes, letters, numbers,colors, products
Technology
- Apple Boosts Assistance for People who have Disabilities. Check out the video library they have created on Youtube.
- Give parents and students lesson on accessibility by Facetime, Zoom or by sending videos and materials to practice
- Work on typing skills using a free program such as Talking Typing Club https://www.typingclub.com/help/voice-over.html
- Learn how to operate all technical devices in the home such as the tv, computers, dvd player, remote, radio, Alexa or Echo Dot and small appliances
- Watch videos on blindness tips (this can go with daily living skills as well) https://www.wssb.wa.gov/welcome-to-wssb/services/video-clips/
Art
Buttoning
Cafeteria Skills
Cooking Tips
Cortical Visual Impairment (CVI)
Folding Clothes
Folding Money
Labeling
Lync Classroom
Making a Bed
Matching Clothes
Prosthetic Eye
Room Familiarization
Science Techniques
Self Medicating
Shaving Techniques
Sighted Guide Technique
Strategies for Integration
Strength and Core Training
Sweeping Skills for the Blind/VI Person
Tying Shoes
White Cane Techniques
WSSB LIFTT Program
Zipping
Public Transportation
- Steps to riding the bus by Paths to Literacy
https://www.perkinselearning.org/technology/blog/steps-riding-bus
- Comparing use of taxi, Transportation Network Companies (TNC) such as Uber and Lyft, Bus, and walking. Include topics on fares/financial cost, time, situations where each may be helpful.
- Finding Wheels Curriculum (if you can find the book on eBay or other used site); new edition is nearing publication
- There are many apps that are accessible for doing bus planning lessons including Google maps, Movit, Transit, Wingz, Citymapper and Lazarillo
- Practice a bus planning lesson- see below for how to go about it and customize it for your own needs and geographical area:
- Discuss and explain how ACCESS/LIFT/Paratransit in your are works
https://www.gonctd.com/services/lift-paratransit/
Bus Etiquette
-- Always enter and exit the front door only so the driver will see you.
-- Do not wear headphones so you can pay attention and listen.
-- No eating or drinking on the bus.
-- You must have exact change if you have to pay for your ride. As of our last lesson it was $2.50 per one way trip and $6 for a day pass.
Questions to ask and consider when entering the bus:
1. Does this bus go to -- -- . or Is this bus number -- -- ?
2. Can you tell me when I arrive at (intersection or where I want to go)? This will help the individual to know when to get off of the bus.
3. Is there a seat behind you, near the front door? This prompts anyone in disabled seating to over hear this request and get up and move. This also helps the driver remember to help the individual get off of the bus at the correct intersection.
4. Don’t forget to teach a person who has vision to use the yellow pull cord to remind the driver to stop at the intersection.
5. I would allow a more proficient multi tasker to listen to the Lazarillo app in one ear using headphones to pay attention to where they are going as the bus drives around town. They could also set their destination on the Lazarillo app to help them know when to get off of the bus.
Bus Route: Using the Phone
Have this information ready for the operator:
a. Starting address
b. Ending address
c. Date of travel
d. Start time and/or arrival time
e. Source to write down the information (paper/pen, tape recorder, BrailleNote, Phone)
Information to take down:
1. Leaving:
2. Time of Pick Up:
3. Bus #:
4. Direction of bus:
5. Corner of Pick Up:
6. Intersection of Pick Up:
7. Arrival Time:
-- If transfer, repeat above information. Information to take down:
1. Leaving:
2. Time of Pick Up:
3. Bus #:
4. Direction of bus:
5. Corner of Pick Up:
6. Intersection of Pick Up:
7. Arrival Time:
-- Directions to walk to the destination: (*Detail directions using the 5-pt. Travel System)
Transcript for how to bus plan North County Public Transportation:
Call 760-966-6500
--Listen for, to speak to a customer service representative press 1.
An Example of how to interact with the operator:
--Operator: How may I help you?
--Bruce: I am a blind traveler and I would like to plan a bus route.
--Operator: Where would you like to go?
--Bruce: I would like to go from ---- to ---- on (say the date) at (say the time).
--Operator: the operator begins to give you the information at a fast pace ...
--Bruce: Please, slow down, I am taking notes. Can you repeat what you said? Thank you!
--Operator: Sure, I will repeat the information.
--Bruce: Can I repeat back to you the route? (Remember to get all possible useful information: directions to and from the bus stop, the direction the bus is traveling, the side of the street the bus stop will be on).
--Operator: That is correct.
--Bruce: Thank you!
Plan 2: Using the Internet
Internet source: www.gonctd.com (which stands for go north county transit department). You can also search north county transit department
Have this information ready:
a. Starting point (Departing from?)
b. Ending point (Arriving at?)
c. Click get directions
d. You will be routed to google maps
e. Click on leave now drop down arrow to choose departure or arrival time
f. Pick preferred type of transit which in this case will be the bus looking icon
g. Choose the day of the week you prefer to travel
h. Be sure that you have a source to write down the information (paper/pen, tape recorder, BrailleNote, Phone)
Intersection Related Goals or Intersection Analysis Ideas
- You can use masking tape on a flat floor and toy cars to build an intersection. You can label the streets. Here is a picture example.
- If you are able to go for safe walks in your neighborhood, practice walking to the various bus stops near your home, nearby family or friend’s home and local businesses. At each intersection along the way listen to traffic. Introduce the following intersection analysis questions. The bolded words are O&M related vocabulary she has been introduced to and benefits from continuing to learn. I recommend that you print the information below out before you go on a walk.
- What is the width of the intersection? As in how many lanes are across. This helps her to determine how long she will be in the street.
- What is the volume of traffic? As in, do you hear traffic? Is the traffic light medium or heavy? At some intersections she needs traffic to cross while at others (stop-signs) she will try and cross when no traffic is present.
- How is this intersection controlled? Is the intersection controlled by a light, stop sign or neither? If the intersection is not controlled, she will need to reroute and find another because she will not cross at uncontrolled streets.
- What is the shape of the intersection? Is it a plus (+), T, Y or off set T? This is important to understand the flow of traffic.
- What is the visibility at the intersection? Can she see cars and can cars see her? Are there any obstructions in the way such as a car, bush or pole?
Worksheets to help with Intersection Analysis have been sent to you via Google documents and should look like this:
Intersection Analysis Worksheet
PLEASE TELL ME ABOUT:
A. Intersection Configuration
- Street Names
- Shape of Intersection “T”, “+”, “Y”, “Offset T”
B. Traffic Controls
- Traffic Light (1-Way, 2-Way, 3-Way, 4-Way)
- Stop-Sign (1-Way, 2-Way, 3-Way, 4-Way)
- No Control
C. Traffic Patterns or Volume of Traffic
- Light
- Light to Medium
- Medium
- Heavy
D. Other Concerns Regarding Visibility
- Right Turners
- Obstructed View
- Left Turners
- Noise Level
E. Width of Street and/or Number of Lanes
- One
- Two
- Three
- Four
- More than Four
Based on Your Analysis of this Intersection:
- Is it Safe to Cross?
- Is it Safer to Cross going Counterclockwise or Clockwise?
- What is the Scanning Pattern for Clockwise?
- What is the Scanning Pattern for Counterclockwise?
- Should I Reroute if this is not the Safest Intersection to Cross at?
- Are there other pedestrians nearby to ask for help?
- Are there any businesses nearby to ask for help?
Intersection Analysis
- Shape of intersection-T shaped, Plus shaped, Y shaped, Off-set T, Turning island
- Volume of traffic-Heavy, Medium, Light-It means if the sound of cars are loud, medium, and soft. We use this because it helps us know when to cross and when to not cross.
- How traffic is controlled-It’s either controlled by STOP sign, stoplight, or neither.
- Visibility-If you can see cars and if they can see you.
- Width-How many lanes there are across.
Street Sign Worksheets (email request for these until I have time to make them into PDF’s)
Traffic Safety Related Apps
Walkwise for Kids appAndroid
https://m.apkpure.com/walkwise-for-kids/msg360.com.walkwise
Or
IOS
https://appadvice.com/app/walkwise-for-kids/1065902494
- Basic Safety Rules for Children app
Android
https://m.apkpure.com/basic-safety-rule-for-children/com.kidsfunstudio.basic.safety.rulefor.children
Or
IOS
https://appadvice.com/app/basic-safety-rule-for-children-keep-kids-safe/1237169809
- My Traffic Light app
Android
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.TASAG.MyTrafficLightFree&hl=en_US
Or
IOS
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/my-traffic-light-free/id1143855425
App store
- Good Year Kids Safety app
Android
https://appfelstrudel.com/id/905875250/goodyear-kids-safety.html
Or
IOS
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/goodyear-kids-safety/id905875250
- Community Signs- now has a fee of $1.99
IOS
https://download.cnet.com/Community-Signs/3000-20414_4-78217045.html
6. Road Safety App ipad and iphone
Android
Or
IOS
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/road-safety-for-kids/id1186174756
7. Traffic signs app
Android
https://newzoogle.com/best-road-sign-learning-apps-for-android-to-save-you-from-accidents/
Or
IOS
Traffic Signs Free ipad and iphone
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/traffic-signs-free/id375561396
Or
https://m.apkpure.com/traffic-signs-rules/com.haty.trafficsigns
8. Traffic for Children app
Android
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.appsbergman.trafficforkids&hl=en_US
OR Traffic Signs app store have not trialed for IOS
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/traffic-signs-flashcards-english-vocabulary-learning/id1048335317
Concepts that can be taught remotely over phone, Zoom, etc.
- Parallel/Perpendicular
- Odd/Even for address systems
- Intersection basics
- Cardinal directions
- Clock-face orientation
- Time Concepts- Carmen Williams recommends apps and ideas
https://www.teachingvisuallyimpaired.com/time-management.html
- Body parts lesson. Paint your child’s body parts as you discuss them. Listen to songs about body parts. There is an app that is not accessible but does talk and would be appropriate for a child who has low vision: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/learning-human-body-parts/id808662736
- Lessons on letters, shapes and numbers can always incorporate songs
- Creating Educational Toys and Activities for Children who are Blind and Visually Impaired by Texas School for the Blind
Long Cane
- Long Cane Book posted on Paths to Literacy
Daily Living Skills Lesson ideas
- Work on anything from the Michigan Calendar or Michigan Independent Living Skills Checklists
https://mdelio.org/blind-visually-impaired/expanded-core-curriculum/independent-living-skills
- Teaching Meal Time Skills to Students with Visual and Multiple Impairments Blog https://alliedindependenceonline.com/blog/tag/Jennifer+Freeman
- Improve Independent Living Skills for Students with Visual Impairments and Multiple Impairments- This Section Explains how to use the Michigan Independent Living Skills Checklist with Families and discusses tips for Getting Dressed Blog
https://alliedindependenceonline.com/blog/independent-living-skills-for-students-
with-visual-and-multiple-impairments
- Link to Spanish May Calendar for Daily Living Skills
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1z6jzWkzA7H0j4F5_LopTwaywKlX9ns5U/view?usp=sharing
- Download free iDo apps
https://search.bridgingapps.org/apps/27f823e4-4d6d-4033-a78b-a0406825c5dc
iDo Food – Kids with special needs learn dining skills (Full version)
iDo Chores – Daily activities and routine tasks for kids with special needs (Full version)
iDo Getting Dressed – Learn the Routine of wearing clothes, for individuals with special needs. (Full version)
iDo Food
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/ido-food-kids-special-needs-learn-dining-skills-full/id931891855
Recreation and Leisure
- Play games (Twister, connect four, card games, Bop It (use a Brailler to Braille cards, Braille Uno from Target)
- Adapt games that you have at home
- Tips to adapt Games for Children with Visual Impairments by Paths to Literacy
- Buy wikki sticks to create wikki stick art, maps, do math, pre braille skills, reading, geography
https://www.wikkistix.com/sight-impaired/
- Look at Pintrest and create tactile art projects
- Do crafts involving play doh, fuze beads, beads, glue, coloring, painting, knitting, sewing and cutting
- Watch videos to learn about and participate in movement based activities such as dancing, Yoga and anything that you can do in your living room. Teach body part and muscle group concepts during the experience.
- Explore a craft store to see what types of crafts exist
https://www.michaels.com/shop-categories/crafts-and-hobbies/809188650
- Watch/Listen to youtube videos on how to create crafts or participate in leisure activities. Here are some examples below:
- Fuze or perler beads https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u4us4pGNOC0
- Making bracelets https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b0_hnowTUwQ
- Making loom bracelets: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IXuFV0y3HzY
- Five minute crafts: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ReJJFfZ-QR4
Helpful Daily Calendar
- Parent Mobility.com posts monthly calendar activities
http://parentmobility.com/index.php/september-om-activity-calendar/
Orientation
- Do an orientation to your entire house- start room by room
- Learn you address and the addresses of family and friends
- Add addresses to tablets or IOS device
- While on the topic of the address, write letters to people
- Find a Braille Pen Pal by contacting Jen Freeman from Rock the Cane by emailing her at rockthecane@gmail.com
- Ask parents to facilitate students making tactile maps of their room, home, etc. (this might be with construction paper, dry noodles, Elmer’s glue, etc.)
- If the individual has low vision, do a google maps type related lesson via Zoom or Facetime
- Explore your own neighborhood when you go for a walk. Learn the concept of walking around the block, the name of the streets in your neighborhood. Walk short routes to nearby friends, neighbors or family members. Create tactile maps of routes you walk in the neighborhood by using materials you have in your home.
- Explore your front and backyard. You would be surprised at what your child may have missed visually.
- Orientation and Mobility Jeopardy. This document does not have answers.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1LhO0lob39SvfuCYRKxx6ny9o-eXWHX33/view?usp=sharing
Socialization
- Call family and friends to practice phone etiquette and social skills
- Dine in the dark as a family
- Call another VI friends to build friendships and connect families
Ideas for Parents to do with older VI Students
I've been seeing a lot of questions about how to entertain young adults who have vision loss and wanted to share some ideas!
1. Work on paying bills. Find accessible apps to do this. Discuss Autopay. Work on how to deposit checks using online banking.Talk about checks. Be sure your child has a signature. Talk about credit cards and debit cards. Discuss financial planning. You can do this easiest by talking about your own finances and how you plan, move money around and pay for things.
2. Cook together! This will eventually be a big part of being independent in the future. My family and I plan to watch Youtube culinary videos so that we can become better chefs. There is a Sightless Chef cooking Facebook group you can join. Look into smart cooking devices and find equipment that is adapted such as talking scales and measuring devices. Adapt your own appliances and cooking products.
3. Find an appropriate Facebook or social media support group for your child. I've seen that some of the support groups are setting up Zoom meetings. Explore together what people with the same eye condition are doing.
4. Learn about music. See if there is anything that your child is interested in learning to play. I bought a cheap keyboard for my daughter on Amazon and we have begun to learn about music. Listen to an opera, concert or different genres of music. Watch a musical movie.
5. Play games. Good old fashioned games. My teens son (who has vision) loved playing monopoly with the family. He got so excited and we all laughed a ton. Adapt games in any way you can. Use the Seeing AI app to read the chance cards and where the player lands. Listen to Youtube videos on how to learn card games and Braille a deck at home or buy one online.
6. Learn about accessible technology and apps! Look especially into Apple products that have zoom and voiceover. Become a master of them. Learn about how accessible your smart tv's are in the home.
7. Other ideas I am trying with my family that might work for yours. We are planning a zoom murder mystery party, a night where we all where our favorite sports apparel and watch a recorded game, a culinary night and a paint night. We play games with other family members such as Yahtzee, charades and banana grams through zoom.
8. This is a great time to explore recreation and leisure activities. Try learning to knit or be great at some craft. Michaels craft store has endless ideas you can explore online.
9. Talk about grocery shopping. How will your young adult grocery shop in the future? What about if they were in this situation. Explore online grocery shopping and have them place your families next order. This is a great time to introduce name brand products that your family likes.
10. Have a beauty party or work on hygiene skills. Teach your child about personal hygiene related things such as how to paint or clean nails. How to put on makeup or shave their face. There are Youtube videos about this by people who have vision loss. Work on self care and how to style or curl your hair.
11. Explore Guide Dog Online Workshops for Students
Or
More Coming up Next Month posted on FaceBook
https://www.facebook.com/groups/252989878064486/permalink/3337554572941319/
12. Think of their future and how to prepare them for college such as how they will pay bills, grocery shop, navigate college or a new job. How to cook, clean, do laundry, learn online and interact with new people.
Human Guide Skills
- Help families to practice all guide skills while at their homes using technology, resources or videos
Motor Activities (left/right concepts)
- Body Awareness Activities for kids using left/right concepts and spatial awareness
https://ilslearningcorner.com/201608-body-awareness-activities-for-stronger-proprioception-and-learning-development/?fbclid=IwAR2emboUWDdIkuG2P5g4Mh1qZ19WoGxoEou3Z0dNzXb6JcFKMjaLTgqkCiI
- Want to work on left/right concepts with a student or child?
Create yellow left hand and feet and orange right hand and feet to work on the concepts with students at school or home. The contrasting colors help students who have low vision. Add Velcro on the back. Incorporate feet and hands into hopscotch or hula hoop games, obstacle courses, made up games and various lessons throughout the school.
Other ideas I have tried when working on left/right concepts are to use band aids and place them on various body parts. So for example, I would say I am going to place a band aid on your left knee. Now I will place a band aid on your right wrist. I don't know a child yet who does not love a band aid.
You can paint the left hand and foot or right hand and foot! This is a very sensory friendly activity and when you're done, place the wet painted hand/foot on paper. You can cut out the hand and feet to use for activities listed above.
Other ideas mentioned below in a link involve placing a bracelet or watch on one wrist to remind the child which is the left or right.
I also added some great links below that I like to share with parents who are working on these concepts:
1. Early Orientation and Mobility Concepts for Young Children Who Are Blind or Visually Impaired
https://familyconnect.org/blog/familyconnect-a-parents-voice/early-orientation-and-mobility-concepts-for-young-children-who-are-blind-or-visually-impaired/12/
2. Game Ideas again only if you find the time
https://www.tsbvi.edu/early-childhood/1930-orientation-and-mobility-preschool-style
3. More on Teaching Concepts by Carmen Williams
https://www.teachingvisuallyimpaired.com/concepts-to-teach.html
4. Perkins School for the Blind
https://www.perkinselearning.org/activity/pointing-right-and-left
Website with Instructional Videos
- Parent Mobility has a video directory of skills including hand trailing, diagonal cane technique, constant contact, finding objects with a cane, upper/lower body protection, searching dropped objects, all about canes, parallel and perpendicular, squaring off, mapping intro, shorelining cane technique, compass directions, traveling in rainy day weather, residential area features, ready position and the crosswalk, simple address, mapping residential areas, basic lighted intersection crossing and commercial area features.
http://parentmobility.com/index.php/video-directory/
- This is a repeat from above but you can find videos on blindness tips (this can go with daily living skills as well) https://www.wssb.wa.gov/welcome-to-wssb/services/video-clips/
Adapt Your Home and Organize Together
- Bedroom organization
https://theblindguide.com/bedroom-organization-for-visually-impaired/
- Braille label your home in places that will help such as the kitchen and on all appliances
Self Advocating and Understanding the Eye and Eye Condition
- Two great ideas related to vision that you and your child or Vision Instructor can do during this time, is to make an eye model. Discuss parts of the eye and talk about your loved ones eye conditions.
- Secondly, work with your vision teacher to write a letter, create a video or come up with a way to prepare your child’s future teacher and class for having him/her in their class. It’s a great time to discuss and explain the tools, technology and equipment used. In the informational resource discuss accommodations and the person’s eye condition. Be creative and have fun!
Braille
- Introduction to Braille for Parents Online Course:
This self-paced braille course is designed for parents who want to be able to better help their braille learners.
Email: kblackwell@eusd.org
Take a free Braille class that Kim Blackwell created called Braille Brain. It is entirely online http://www.braillebrain.com/
- Explore all the ways you can find audio books.
- Libby app https://www.overdrive.com/apps/libby/
- Look into Seedlings for Braille books and check out their free book program
http://www.seedlings.org/special.php
- Audible app
https://www.audible.com/howtolisten
Teaching Math and Measurement Concepts
- This article by Perkins discusses measuring tools: using traditional and digital tools for activities
https://www.perkinselearning.org/technology/blog/measuring-tools-using-traditional-and-digital-tools-activities
- Here’s information on how to make a Braille ruler and tactile measuring tools using a 3D printer!
https://makezine.com/2016/08/17/3d-printed-spatial-reasoning-tools-visually-impaired/
- Path to Literacy shares information on an accessible UAbacus app for the iPad.
https://www.pathstoliteracy.org/technology/uabacus-app-now-available
- Need an abacus at home? Here’s a link below on how to make you own.
Link to abacus basics by Carmen Williams
https://www.teachingvisuallyimpaired.com/cranmer-abacus-instruction.html#
- http://www.homeschoolingheartsandminds.com/2013/03/math-craft-make-your-own-abacus.html?m=1
- Here is a Draw2Measure Protractor free accessible app. Found from this Pintrist link
https://pin.it/1d595M3
Dog Guide Facilities
- Look into and discuss Guide Dog facilities in the USA. Talk about what it takes to be
https://www.nfb.org/resources/guide-dog-resources
Helpful Blogs
- O&M Related Resource Notebook with the following information listed below
https://www.pathstoliteracy.org/blog/o-m-staff-resource-notebook
- Strategies When Working in the Classroom with Students Who Are Vision Impaired
- Preparing Future Graduates Who Happen to Be Blind
- Long Cane Information
- Human/Sighted Guide Techniques
- Hand Trailing Technique
- Upper and Lower Body Techniques
- O & M Related Concepts to Teach
- Braille Information
- Technology
Explore Vision Loss Facilities in your Community
- In San Diego they have the San Diego Center for the Blind and the Braille Institute
- San Diego Center for the Blind
- Braille Institute
https://www.brailleinstitute.org/
- Junior Blind of America (in Los Angeles)
https://www.wayfinderfamily.org/
- Look into Facebook support groups for your child’s specific eye condition
Educate Yourselves on Products Sold for the VI Community such as talking watches, games and adapted kitchen equipment
- Independent Living Aids
https://www.independentliving.com/
- MaxiAids
Read about Orientation and Mobility and the Expanded Core Curriculum
- Specifically look at how you can support O&M at home and how you can build a tactile map
https://www.familyconnect.org/info/education/expanded-core-curriculum/orientation-and-mobility/123
Apps for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing
Here are some app links that could help online learning for people who work with Deaf and Hard of Hearing and Visually Impaired (mostly low vision) individuals. They are accessible.
1. Statement App - this app is great for communication with the public. It is in large print and she can pre write sentences to make it easier to use.
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/statement-visual-communication-and-large-text/id1018664801
2. Lecture Buddy App- This is an app that picks up what the instructor or people around her are saying. It is great for when she is getting a class lecture because it records the text. She could also try it while she is in class with a group so that she can read what others are saying when interpreting is difficult.
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/lecture-buddy/id1340990729
3. Connect by BeWarned - as stated when you press the link, this app is for the deaf and hard of hearing to communicate with the hearing. The app converts speech into text and vice versa.
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.getbewarned.connect&hl=en
4. BuzzCards - this app is designed for people who are hard of hearing with preset statements to communicate with the public. It looks great for individuals who are hard of hearing and have low vision.
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/sorenson-buzzcards/id380582593
5. Speak4Me- train your phone to say whatever you want. She can try this app socially. She can also save phrases.
https://apps.apple.com/us/app/speak4me-text-to-speech/id894460403
Some other resources for remote O&M instruction have been going around and I wanted to make sure you had access to it, even if you aren't a part of the online groups.
Preparing for Virtual Instruction, by Diane Brauner, discusses how to prepare for virtual instruction for General Education Teachers, TVI's.
Remote O&M Services via Video, (O&M LiveBinder) by Chris Tabb, has a curated list of resources that will help you provide remote O&M instruction.
Remote O&M Instruction Ideas, a collaborative document from Chris Tabb is a working document that anyone can add to. Just make sure not to delete anything or it will be deleted for all of us.
Zoom.us, the virtual platform is accessible and free for 40 minutes.
If you are an educational leader and need support navigating the transition from bringing your in-person events online, reply back and we will schedule a call to support you.
Below you will find VI Distance Learning Ideas. I am approaching this from a high school perspective (my current job), but please add any/all ideas for all ages below!
Zoom is currently free for all teachers:
Phone/iPad (free) apps to explore:
-Seeing AI
-TapTapSee
-Be My Eyes
-MBraille
Research and Remote Projects:
-VI / ADA - law research
-VI job prospects
-VI & College - research and email disability services at different colleges, research different majors that might be easier to accommodate (find prerequisites online)
-Create a Resume
-Write accommodations letter for teachers (in preparation for next Fall)
-Connect with other VI students “email” or “FaceTime” style.
-email pen-pals
-keep a daily journal
Living Skills:
-If parents are home (or tech is available - be my eyes, etc.) or if safe to do independently, practice household chores such as laundry, dishes, preparing basic meals (sandwich, salad, etc.), take out garbage, brush teeth and other hygiene needs, clean home with cleaning products - use systematic cleaning techniques (spiral out or left to right/top down).
Social Skills:
-Some stay at home parents might be watching other children at their house to help out parents who are working. If this is the case, VI kids can practice social skills with these other children or with siblings by playing together, working on school work together, and taking leadership roles if they’re responsible for watching other children.
-Practice over zoom, facetime, etc. with teachers of the visually impaired any related social skills goals or lessons that are appropriate. Also this is a good time to practice sick safety ideas such as sneezing into your elbow, opening doors with kleenex or other barriers, cleaning surfaces before touching them, washing hands for a full 20 seconds (sing a song if needed to remember), etc.
Braille
If a student is able to use a braille display and computer, then lessons can continue over zoom or FaceTime (best if students know most of their contractions). Teachers can verbally say “fingers 1,2,3 etc.) if students need assistance with specific braille contractions. Students and TVI can work on editing skills remotely - this is often a large area of need. The student can share their english essay or write a short story with their TVI and work on spelling, grammar, etc.
Typing Curriculum
Students can continue any lessons that have to do with typing curriculum. They just need to be told which lessons to do and teachers can check their progress remotely.
-https://www.typing.com/ is a common free tool our school district uses for low vision students.
-talking typer is a good program for students who are blind (there are many other programs).
Inspiring Guest Speakers
Ahmet Ustunel and Penny Melville-Brown were invited ( via zoom) to be guest speakers to students at the Orientation Center for the Blind, California. It was a wonderful opportunity for the students to hear their personal journeys and to ask questions about how they overcame challenges as individuals with V.I. They are very open to be contacted if you wish to invite them as guest speakers to your school or facility.
- Ahmet Ustunel aka the Blind Captain
First Blind man to kayak from Asia to Europe.
Website:
http://www.theblindcaptain.com/aboutme.htm
- Penny Melville-Brown
Completed a world cooking tour and cooked next to sighted/blind chiefs
Website: