Infants born without motor impairments can be expected to take their first wobbly, hands free step any time after age eight months and before they reach eighteen months. When provided with the proper environment and assistive safety devices, once infants with a mobility visual impairment or blindness (MVI/B) let go and take their first step, the amount of independent walking time and walking ability can improve when they engage in their daily physical activity.
After six months of daily safe walking experience, a toddler with a MVI/B should demonstrate a narrow base of support, increased step length, adult-like stability and inter- and intralimb coordination.
By eighteen months, infants with a MVI/B should be safely walking solo during their recommended five to six hours of daily physical activity, unless otherwise recommended by their doctor.
When working on the skills of safely walking with a child with a MVI/B, provide the child with a Pediatric Belt Cane to ensure the child has an independent ability to detect obstacles and protect themselves needed to build confidence and motivation to move. Encourage safe walking in the child's daily routines, gradually reducing physical support.
All children with a MVI/B need safety to walk their best. Therefore, for children with motor impairments, it is critical the entire team determine the best way to ensure the child has the necessary tactile feedback about the surface ahead to feel safe.
Describes
Standing with a Belt Cane
Walking with a Belt Cane
Jumping with a Belt Cane
Kicking with a Belt Cane
Running, Galloping, Skipping with a Belt Cane