Very young child using a long cane
What is early childhood intervention orientation and mobility?
Early childhood orientation and mobility (O&M) involves children learning the skills and techniques of independent travel at a developmentally appropriate age; learning to move independently, safely, and with a sense of purpose through the environment.
At Independent Options for Mobility, we believe:
- The foundations for independent travel are built during infancy and early childhood.
- O&M concepts and skills are best developed in the child’s home environment and local community.
- Parents are a child’s first and most important teacher.
Why choose Independent Options for Mobility as a service provider?
Dr Bronwen Scott has extensive experience in the provision of early intervention O&M skills and techniques, including several years working as a member of the Early Childhood Teaching Team with the Vision Education Service in Western Australia. She has completed a Doctor of Education degree, and her thesis on early intervention O&M is available here. Bronwen is a member of Early Childhood Australia, and Early Childhood Intervention Australia, and has been involved as a member of the Expert Advisory Group for the Early Childhood Intervention National Guidelines Project. You can access the ECIA National Guidelines here.
Dean Johnson has many years of experience providing O&M intervention to children, and is a registered teacher with the Victorian Institute of Teaching.
Information and Resources
You can download further information about O&M with children by clicking the links below:
What is orientation and mobility? (PDF) What-is-orientation-and-mobility (rtf)
O&M for children with low vision (PDF) O&M for children with low vision (rtf)
O&M for infants and toddlers (PDF) O&M for infants and toddlers (rtf)
Early Intervention Services for children with vision and hearing impairment. (PDF)
The-Expanded-Core-Curriculum (PDF) The-Expanded-Core-Curriculum (rtf)
I’m starting to walk I can use a cane (PDF) I’m starting to walk I can use a cane (rtf)
Early long cane use: A case study (PDF)
Early intervention orientation and mobility: A Western Australian perspective (PDF)
“Opening up the world” – Bronwen’s Ed.D. thesis on early intervention O&M
Bronwen has published a booklet for families, educators and other interested parties that is available from Amazon. Alternatively, you can contact Bronwen directly to order a copy at: bron@options4mobility.com.au The booklet cost $10, including postage.
Useful Websites:
Raising Children – Australian parenting website, including a useful section on disability
Family Connect (American website for parents of children with vision impairment)
Little Long Canes – YouTube clip about long cane use for very young children
NFB Early Explorers – YouTube clip about the National Federation of the Blind (USA) early long cane program
Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired
Insight School for the Blind and Vision Impaired – Specialist independent school in Melbourne, Australia