Easy White Cane Day Activity Ideas (Both Virtual and In-Person)
Oct 12, 2021
Oh my gosh, friends, can you believe it’s already October? I was sitting outside earlier here in Texas, enjoying the crisp morning air in the 70s, which quickly warms up into the 90s by afternoon. There’s something special about sipping coffee from a cup with a little sweater on it, a cute seasonal touch that perfectly captures the cozy spirit of this time of year.
October is a month filled with beautiful moments, not the least of which is Blindness Awareness Month, culminating in our beloved White Cane Day. For those of us in the field, White Cane Day can sometimes bring a bit of stress—planning activities for students while managing a heavy caseload can feel overwhelming. But don't worry! Today, I’ve got some easy, engaging White Cane Day activities to help you celebrate without the stress.
Easy White Cane Day Activities
1. Blindness Awareness Month Jeopardy
One of my favorite activities is a Blindness Awareness Month Jeopardy game. It’s perfect for virtual or in-person settings and a great way to engage students in a fun, educational challenge. Using a Jeopardy template, you can create categories around history, cane skills, and famous individuals with visual impairments. This activity is a hit with both students and their friends!
2. Cane Skills Tournament
Turn learning into a friendly competition with a Cane Skills Tournament. Select a set of cane skills, place them in a bracket, and have students practice and demonstrate these skills head-to-head. This not only boosts their skills but also adds an element of excitement as they progress through the rounds to find the ultimate skill champion.
3. Guided Relay Race
For younger students, a Guided Relay Race is both educational and fun. Teach sighted friends how to be guides, and then pair them with students using their canes. It’s a slower-paced race that emphasizes teamwork and understanding, making it a meaningful experience for all participants.
4. Obstacle Course
Set up an obstacle course for students to navigate using their canes. This can be done individually or in groups, and adding a small prize at the end—like a toy or knick-knack from the dollar store—makes it extra rewarding. It’s a great way to practice mobility in a controlled, fun environment.
5. Experiential Activity
For a hands-on experience, have students wear blindfolds while performing sensory activities, such as making a sandwich or identifying objects by touch. This can be a valuable lesson for both students and their peers, fostering empathy and understanding in a playful setting.
Reflecting on Our Journey
This October also marks two years since A Step Forward began. It feels like we’re just getting started, even as we look back and see how far we’ve come as a community. We’re all united by the shared goal of helping individuals with visual impairments lead successful, independent lives. Our collective experiences and diverse perspectives are what make this community so special.
Looking Ahead
If you’re part of our email list, keep an eye out for a special pre-sale opportunity for the International Orientation and Mobility Online Symposium from October 13th to 15th. It’s an event you won’t want to miss!
As we navigate through October, let’s remember to lean on each other, share our knowledge, and continue making a difference in the lives of those we serve. Whether you’re planning a big event or a simple lesson, the key is to take it one step at a time—and have fun along the way!
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