Blindisms: "STOP ROCKING, ADAM!"

When I first started working with children with little and no vision, I recall a 5th grader--totally blind-- being admonished by his classmates to "STOP ROCKING, ADAM!" It seems it was a class effort to help him to stop the rocking while he talked and since his teacher was not present (I was the art teacher) he growled back at them all until one of the boys got closer to say more softly "We're just trying to help you."

I wondered what was wrong with his rocking and that he seemed unaware that he was doing it. I also wondered if it was more of an issue to the sighted than to the blind. Later I learned that helping him to cease the rocking would help him with his public perception in the future. In order for him to have a job later in life or just get along with others he has to appear as "normal" as possible and without mental challenges. That is what other blind people consider as well. They want the sighted to understand that apart form the difference of sight that they are "normal." Rocking and other blindisms distract from that.

What are blindisms?   Dr. Marguerite A. Smith, Morton Chethik and Edna Adelson, in their study " Differential Assessments of 'Blindisms'" [American Journal of Orthopsychiatry, 39(5) October. 1969] define blindisms as

[behavior] including a wide variety of activities, ranging from minor head and hand motions (e.g. head turning, hand rubbing, usual hand postures) through varied rhythmic postural activities (body rocking, rhythmic swaying) to highly complex, ritualistic patterns reminiscent of the activity of severely disturbed (autistic, schizophrenic)  children or adults.

As a more seasoned teacher/specialist for the visually impaired I have learned the consequences of allowing certain blindisms to continue. It is more than just a nuisance habit that makes sighted people dizzy from speaking to someone who is continually rocking. I have seen beautiful children dark recessed eyes and perpetual eye infections from eye poking. I have seen sighted children not want to be around the strange acting child. I have seen people assume that a blind person who rocks does not have the intelligence of a sighted person. However, with my children with multiple disabilities, I have learned to pick  my battles. I had a child who would spin and rock whenever he had the chance. We made  such activity inappropriate for when it was time to sit at our work table but OK if music was playing and it was time to dance.

At any rate, I have a few links to articles on blindisms that I hope will particularly assist parents of young ones who are blind. The last one, I am particularly fond of as it was written by a former "eye poker."

Mannerisms or Blindism (LOFOB) http://www.lofob.org.za/html/mannerisms.html
SensAgent: http://dictionary.sensagent.com/Blindism/en-en/
Beating Blindisms (By Sarah J. Blake, Freelance Writer and Educational Consultant) http://www.tsbvi.edu/seehear/spring02/blindisms.htm

[Eot] Braille Games

Forwarded from Eric Guillory, Director of Youth Services

Louisiana Center for the Blind

101 South Trenton Street

Ruston, LA 71270

"Together, we are changing what it means to be blind."

From:aph.org On Behalf Of Jonn Paris-Salb
Sent: Tuesday, March 12, 2013 1:26 PM
To: Subject: [Eot] Braille Games

In addition to the braille Challenge, this activity introduces braille to new learners in a fun event;

Braille Games offer opportunity for learning, peer connections

http://www.jsonline.com/news/milwaukee/braille-games-makes-learning-fun-for-blind-children-fs931mc-196551571.html A Wisconsin school recently hosted an event where students who are blind gathered to learn Braille. Students played bingo and visited tables where they were able to interact with Braille letters printed on everyday items such as pizza boxes, juice cartons and cookies. Milwaukee Journal Sentinel (tiered subscription model) (3/8)

Visual Impairments Specialist Scotlandville Magnet High School of Excellence http://lee.ebrschools.org/kathynicholslee
http://www.kathyskids.org
http://teacherweb.com/LA/RobertELeeHigh/MrsMichael/t.aspx
http://mskathyskids.blogspot.com

Counting to Five with the Students in SP (part 2)

I have four students in Mrs. East's class for children with severe and profound developmental disabilities. Two of them have only light perception and two are cortically visually impaired (CVI).

Mrs. East's learning task this year concentrates on counting to five. She wants the children who can talk to try to say the numbers and the children who can use their hands to be able to "tap count" on the table while she counts aloud. She also wants them exposed to the numeral. Earlier I made double vision flash cards with the numbers 1 to five in large print, braille, raised lines. I used neon colors because of the cortical blindness. 

My intent here is to make a counting box in which the children will be able to drop five objects inside and hear them hit the bottom of box. I wanted to use a coffee can because they make the most noise but I became concerned with using spray paint to cover the writing on the can. Instead I found more jingle bells and some inexpensive food storage containers. I am thinking I will sew each bell into a cloth pocket so they will be easier to pick up and hold and pose less of a choking hazard.

On each side of the container is the number five represented in different ways. I used neon green duct tape to make a print numeral five on one side. Doll crafting wiggle eyes  were used on another side to make a large braille numeral five. On another side I used five neon orange labeling dots.

I also found some more of those little light-up squishy toys that can be used for another class.

All of the things pictured can be found at WalMart. The colored dot labels and the container can be found at both WalMart and Dollar General.

Later, I will post how the jingle bells came out.

I have been trying to work on a Classroom Suites activity that is conducive to switch use and a video to paste on TeacherTube, however, with no desk I have to go to another site, at the AT department, where the program is installed to do that. Lately when I get to go there it's to use their computers for paper work. I'm determined to  complete a CRS activity before February.

Until next time, keep praying for my kids and for me and I'll keep praying for all of you and yours!

~K

Arthur's Lessons in communication

Arthur (from PBS) talks to kids about how children who are visually and hearing impaired communicate. This one is great for the classroom! The lesson plan is already done for you!

http://www.pbs.org/parents/arthur/lesson/communication/index.html

Dayglo counting cards for my severe profound kids...

http://www.kathyskids.org

Ms. Kathy's Kids Blog: http://mskathyskids.blogspot.com/

----- Forwarded Message -----
From: Kathy 
 To: Ms. Kathy's KidsFacebook
Sent: Saturday, October 13, 2012 2:48 PM
Subject: [Ms. Kathy's Kids] Dayglo counting cards for my severe profound kids...

posted in Ms. Kathy's Kids Ms Kathy 2:48pm Oct 13 Dayglo counting cards for my severe profound kids with visual impairments. http://www.facebook.com/l/UAQEZcEc4/instagram.com/p/QuYnHQj24U/?fb_action_ids=10151258404418735&fb_action_types=instapp%253Atake&fb_ref=ogexp&fb_source=aggregation&fb_aggregation_id=282366635119873 instagram.com instagram.com mskathy0724's photo on Instagram View Post on Facebook · Edit Email Settings · Reply to this email to add a comment.

Dayglo counting cards for my severe profound kids...

http://www.kathyskids.org

Ms. Kathy's Kids Blog: http://mskathyskids.blogspot.com/

----- Forwarded Message -----
From: Kathy 
 To: Ms. Kathy's KidsFacebook
Sent: Saturday, October 13, 2012 2:48 PM
Subject: [Ms. Kathy's Kids] Dayglo counting cards for my severe profound kids...

posted in Ms. Kathy's Kids Ms Kathy 2:48pm Oct 13 Dayglo counting cards for my severe profound kids with visual impairments. http://www.facebook.com/l/UAQEZcEc4/instagram.com/p/QuYnHQj24U/?fb_action_ids=10151258404418735&fb_action_types=instapp%253Atake&fb_ref=ogexp&fb_source=aggregation&fb_aggregation_id=282366635119873 instagram.com instagram.com mskathy0724's photo on Instagram View Post on Facebook · Edit Email Settings · Reply to this email to add a comment.

Visual Impairments Links for May

[This is from a digital handout I give to all of my teachers.]
Visual Impairments Specialist: Ms. Kathy




Below are some links to ideas and activities that I have consulted with some of you about. If not—well here they are! Remember that the Classroom Suites activities cannot be open unless you have the program installed on the computer you’re opening them on. Don’t forget to save them before closing if you want to keep them. If you accidentally delete a CRS activity that you’d like to keep you can find them on the Activity Exchange if you have a free account there. Look for my user name: mskathy0724

I’ve put asterisks (*) next to my special activities for students with multiple disabilities.
___________________________________________________________________
20 iPad Aps for Kids with Autism*

It’s a list of what it says. 
_______________________________________________________________________
ABCYA.com

“ABCya.com is the leader in free educational kids computer games and activities for elementary students to learn on the web. All children's educational computer activities were created or approved by certified school teachers. All educational games are free and are modeled from primary grade lessons and enhanced to provide an interactive way for children to learn…”
_______________________________________________________________________
ABC’s of Digital Tools in the Early Childhood Classroom*

It’s a list of what it says 
____________________________________________________________________
Animoto

Good videos can be created for classes with photos and graphics found on the internet. However one cannot add one’s own audio except for music , for creating descriptive videos for children who cannot see the graphics.
__________________________________________________________________
Braille Notebook cards*

A teacher does not need to know Braille to use these cards. These are used when you are going over the alphabet every day with the entire class and the blind child in your class cannot see or feel the letters you point o on your chart. Have the paraprofessional open these notebook cards for the child to follow along with her sighted peers.
________________________________________________________________
Catalog of iPad Aps for Teachers and Students*

It’s…you know.
_________________________________________________________________
Children Around the World (Mexico)*


Created By: Cindy Kerr

Skill Level: Grades K-2

Curriculum: Language Arts Life Skills Social Studies

Activity Details: Join us this year as we visit children in countries around the world to see what their schools look like, clothing, music, food and language. We'll see the map, flag and capital cities.

Easy next page button and yes-no self checking questions.
___________________________________________________________________
Edmodo

“Edmodo provides a safe and easy way for your class to connect and collaborate, share content, and access homework, grades and school notices.” (There is also a mobile access version)

Educational Needs for Low Vision*

A few ideas for children with low vision
___________________________________________________________________
E-Reader’s Worksheet1 *

E-Reader Worksheet 2*

Use these as a template to create an online worksheet for your students. Do you know how to create hyperlinks like the ones in this document?
_________________________________________________________________
Five Little Monkeys*


Intellitools activity: Created By: Cindy Kerr

Skill Level: Birth-5

Curriculum: Language Arts Math

Accessibility Features: Switch Low Vision

Activity Details: Easy numbers 0 to 5 with music from the well known song. Find the answer to turn the page.

Scanning set.

Attached overlay.



Music purchased from iTunes is "Five Little Monkeys" by The Countdown Kids.
_______________________________________________________________________
Fun Brain*

Learning games in all content areas with a section for teachers and parents.
________________________________________________________________________
Greenville ES Word of the Day

Created By: mskathy0724

Skill Level: Grades 3-5

Curriculum: Language Arts

Accessibility Features: Low Vision

Activity Details: Some of these words may seem above 2nd & 3rd grade level but you may be surprised! My visually impaired students like to try "footlong" words. Sometimes they'd bring them to class. Then we'd get the definiton and they'd braille/write their own sentences for them in their morning journals. Some of the sentences they authored are included in this activity. I'd make a card with the word, part of speech, definition in print embossed with braille and they'd tape it to our door until the door was filled with "footlong" words. For a fun test, I'd let the Intellitools program read to them and they'd braille their answers on paper. Then we'd check answers from their papers to the program.
_______________________________________________________________________
Internet4Classrooms

Free Internet resources to use in classroom instruction, developing project ideas, reinforcing specific subject matter areas both in the class and at home and even for online technology tutorials. The portal is used by teachers, parents and students of all ages on six of the seven continents (there are not many classrooms in Antarctica) and is available to anyone with an Internet connection.
__________________________________________________________________________
KERPOOF!

Great for encouraging creative writing! The Kerpoof website is owned and operated by the Walt Disney Company… Kerpoof is all about having fun, discovering things, and being creative. Here are just a few ways that you can use Kerpoof:

• Make artwork (even if you aren't good at drawing!)

• Make an animated movie (really! it's easy!)

• Earn Koins which you can trade for fun things in the Kerpoof Store

• Make a printed card, t-shirt, or mug

• Tell a story

• Make a drawing

• Vote on the movies, stories, and drawings that other people have made
_________________________________________________________________
Lily: The Blind Great Dane


Intellitools Classroom Suites Activity: Created By: Byron O Wilkes

Skill Level: Grades 3-5

Curriculum: Language Arts

Accessibility Features: Switch AAC

Activity Details: This activity set is made up of two activities. The first is a reading activity for students which relates the story of Lily, a blind Great Dane and her friend Maddison. Note: students can also listen to the story if they can't read yet. The second activity is a comprehension activity which provides a set of seven questions in a 3-2-1 format to evaluate the student's comprehension or understanding of the story. Note: the activity captures all of the student's responses and a report can be generated through the IntelliTools Classroom Suite Reporting System if the activity is assigned to the student. Please note that the template used for the reading activity is from the Learning Magic, Inc. "Writing Bin-Early Skills" CD and the template used in the comprehension activity is from the Learning Magic, Inc. "3-2-1 For IntelliTools Classroom Suite" CD. Please do not use these templates to create other activities unless you own a copy of the aforementioned CDs. For further information on those products please visit our website at www.learningmagicinc.com.
________________________________________________________________________
LDOE Coursewhere

Create an account here and apply for workshops sponsored by the LDOE this summer.
_____________________________________________________________
Matt’s Wallet*


Intellitools CRS Activity: Created By: mskathy0724

Skill Level: Grades 3-5

Curriculum: Math Life Skills

Accessibility Features: Low Vision

Activity Details: My high school student Matthew wants to count money because someday he wants to be rich. He helped with this activity. It helps to teach how many of each coin will equal a dollar and how many of each bill denomination are in $100. Matt picked out the items to purchase at the end of the activity. Since the items chosen stay on the activity, a teacher can check for correct answers by going back into the program to see the number of coins and bills the student clicked to add to the pictures.

May In My Classroom

An Intellitools activity brought to you by the same therapist who created “April in My Classroom.”

Microsoft Narrator*

If you have a relatively new computer, one of the accessibility features is a screen reader called Microsoft narrator. The link will take you to the web site that will show you how to locate and use it.

MOODLE

“Moodle is a Course Management System (CMS), also known as a Learning Management System (LMS) or a Virtual Learning Environment (VLE). It is a Free web application that educators can use to create effective online learning sites.“
_________________________________________________________________
Ms. Kathy’s Kids Blog

Just my blog where I post ideas, photos of ideas, articles and the occasional rant/vent. 
______________________________________________________________________
My Big Campus

“My Big Campus extends the classroom to a safe, engaging online environment.”
__________________________________________________________________
One True Media*

Free but it’s worth it to purchase a premium account. Create videos with music and sound. Voice videos can be added (I’ve used clip from my Flip Cam) so that visually impaired children can appreciate the videos as well. You can email links to parents or order a DVD of your finished product for about $10.
__________________________________________________________________
Raz Kids!

An online leveled books library for grades K-6. Students improve their reading skills by:

• Listening for modeled fluency

• Reading for practice

• Recording their reading

• Checking comprehension with quizzes

Students log in to get books and quizzes assigned by their teachers.
_______________________________________________________________


Research Paper Sites (High School/Middle School)

It’s that time of year! This list of sites can help. I’ve had them for a while so let me know if some of the links are no longer valid
______________________________________________________________
Scoop It!

Instructional Resources for Technology on all levels. You can search for lesson plans and curricula using the drop-down menus, or visit the Educator pages for any of the products
________________________________________________________________
Study Guide Template

This one was made for a VI resource class but you can use it as a template for HS/MS Study guides and drop them in your students’ computer folders
_________________________________________________________________
Technology for the Visually Impaired

A blog about the latest stuff and updates on stuff we already use. Yum!
_______________________________________________________________
Typical Technology Solutions for the Disabled

You know.

Teaching Toys for Pennies

I posted this video sometime ago. I have found that at the turn of each season, the Family Dollar Store has these small light up balls in bright colors that will light up when shaken. They are just the size for small hands. I suggested using them against a black background or for teachers of severe profound impaired children with cortical blindness. I even suggested that the teacher invest in a black apron. Since the lights from these toys blink rapidly there may be a seizure inducement concern for some children. I would not allow children who puts things in their mouths to handle these toys. A teacher will use some discretion base on the needs and conditions of his/her students.

Mountbatten Braille Writer Instructions

I found this web site helping a colleague by phone with instructions in using the Mountbatten Braille Writer--or as one of my 'dahlin' little students used to call it: "Mountinbatten". It actually has FAQ's and videos for instruction! This way, if you're at one of your million other schools, the teacher can use this site for problem solving rather than calling you back from the other side of town or waiting until you get back to help the child.

 It has also been a refresher for me just exploring it this evening as I've been about a year without a student who needed it and I'm a little out-of-practice with certain features.

There is also a section for parents. I believe if parents have a child who is learning braille, the parent should be learning right along--and that includes the equipment the child uses. Parents should have some knowledge of braille but you'd be surprised at how many don't bother to learn it.

At any rate, here's the link: http://www.mountbattenbrailler.com/index.html

Famous African Americans with Visual Impairments

I've shared FamousAfrican Americans

Click to open:

• FamousAfrican Americans

Google Docs makes it easy to create, store and share online documents, spreadsheets and presentations.

LVB Show (Low Vision Bureau Official Podcast) posted a new episode on PodOmatic...

Subject: LVB Show (Low Vision Bureau Official Podcast) posted a new episode on PodOmatic...

You are a follower of LVB Show (Low Vision Bureau Official Podcast) on PodOmatic, and there is a new episode available:
"Interview with Founder of Arkansas Acupuncture Center (Alternative treatmen for eye diseases)"

To view this episode, follow the link below:
http://lowvisionbureau.podomatic.com/entry/2012-03-10T14_48_14-08_00

Thank you, The PodOmatic Team

Louisiana Center Announcements--February, 2012

Greetings All,

Please see the links below to download files related to a variety of
items of interest. For those familiar with Dropbox, these links are to
files contained in my Dropbox folder. This process is more expeditious
than sending file attachments and means that the email will be far
less likely to be targeted as spam or have the attachments stripped
from it.

Please distribute widely, and never hesitate to contact me with
questions or concerns. I hope each of you are enjoying a good 2012!

NFB of Louisiana Scholarship Application (deadline March 15, 2012)
http://dl.dropbox.com/u/5954260/NFBL%20Scholarship%20Application.doc

NFB of Louisiana 2012 State Convention Flyer
http://dl.dropbox.com/u/5954260/State%20Convention%20Flyer%202012.doc

NFB of Louisiana 2012 State Convention Preregistration Form
http://dl.dropbox.com/u/5954260/pre-registration%20form.doc

Louisiana Center Buddy Program (deadline April 6, 2012)
http://dl.dropbox.com/u/5954260/Buddy%20Brochure%202012.doc

Louisiana Center STEP Program (deadline April 6, 2012)
http://dl.dropbox.com/u/5954260/STEP%20brochure%202012.doc

NFB 2012 National Convention Flyer
http://dl.dropbox.com/u/5954260/National%20Convention%20Flyer%202012.doc


Please see below for an announcement hot off the presses.

The National Federation of the Blind Announces the 2012 NFB Project
Innovation Program

Students Charting Their Own Course Into Scientific Exploration
July 25-29, 2012*

In 2012, the National Center for Blind Youth in Science (NCBYS), a
program of the National Federation of the Blind Jernigan Institute, is
introducing an exciting science program for students ages 7-11 and
14-18 called NFB Project Innovation.  This pioneer program will focus
on fostering a sense of innovation and autonomy in young students by
allowing them to determine their course of study during the week of
the program. Students will ultimately focus on one investigation which
they will showcase at the Innovators Expo. However, multiple branches
of science will be explored throughout the program through extension
activities.

A unique component of NFB Project Innovation is how it will serve two
unique age groups simultaneously. The first of these two groups will
be comprised of students in grades 3-6 (ages 7-11).  This group,
called Junior Innovators, will stay at the NFBJI for three days, July
25-29.**  Twenty blind students will be accepted into this group.
Each student will be required to attend with an adult chaperone. In
this age group, students will interact with science professionals,
blind mentors, and Senior Innovators. They will have the opportunity
to show off their final innovations, which reflect their own personal
interests and research, at the Innovators Expo.

The high school students, called Senior Innovators, will serve as
junior advisors.  They will not only participate in this science
program but will model blindness skills, scientific investigation
skills, and techniques to their younger counterparts. Senior
Innovators will also have the opportunity to exhibit at the Innovators
Expo. Students in grades 9-12 (ages 14-18) are eligible to apply to be
a Senior Innovator.  The Senior Innovators will stay at the NFBJI for
four days, July 24-29, 2012.**  Ten blind students will be accepted
into this group.

There will be a $250 fee for each Junior Innovator/Chaperone pair and
a $250 fee for each Senior Innovator attending. Other expenses, such
as the cost of travel, room, board, and program materials, will be
covered by the NFB Jernigan Institute for all students and
student/chaperone pairs.

Apply now at www.blindscience.org. Applications are due by April 1,
2012. For more information on this exciting new program, please
contact Abby Bispo at 410-659-9314, extension 2312 or by email at
abispo@nfb.org

*Exact program dates differ based on grade level
**Date range reflects travel time.



Eric Guillory, Director of Youth Services
Louisiana Center for the Blind
101 South Trenton Street
Ruston, LA 71270
Voice: 800-234-4166 ext. 3009
Fax: 318-251-0109

emailed from

Visual Impairments Specialist Scotlandville Elementary http://lee.ebrschools.org/kathynicholslee
http://www.kathyskids.org
http://teacherweb.com/LA/RobertELeeHigh/MrsMichael/t.aspx
http://mskathyskids.blogspot.com

Kerri on the Prairies- Retinopathy of Prematurity

Another parent blog with their experiences with their preemie infant. I like when I find these because they allow parents of preemies--especially those with ROP to see that they are not alone.
http://kerriontheprairies.com/words/retinopathy-of-prematurity/

Ms. Kathy,Visual Impairments Specialist SES
http://www.kathyskids.org
http://teacherweb.com/LA/RobertELeeHigh/MrsMichael/t.aspx
http://mskathyskids.blogspot.com

First Semester Activities for Severe Profound Students

I have enjoyed making my rounds to all the classes. however, most of you know I have more schools and over twice the number of students to see as I did last year, so if I did not get to make these items personally for your classes, please understand that there is not enough time in the day, nor can I purchase everything from my own pocket as I would like. These activities are/were especially for our children with multiple disabilities.

CALENDAR POSTERS
We were able to make a few and give directions for making them for the rest. If you did not receive one the directions are simple. You will need:

• 2 poster boards
• paste or white glue used very sparingly
• Markers
• Post-it notes
• Calendar numbers from Dollar Tree
• Velcro circles or squares with adhesive backing (you can get strips and cut them into squares)
• Braille labeller or stickers if appropriate
• Ziplock bag

Directions:

• Stick post-its to the bottom of the posters seven across in five rows. Pull up every other post-it once they are straight. That will make a checkerboard-looking section for putting on dates. Now use glue or paste to secure the Post-its you didn't take up.
• At the top of the poster you may want to make a nice picture, use class photos or write "Mr./Mrs. __'s Class" or "Class Calendar." I can draw some for you while I'm visiting your class if you let me know.
• Write a day of the week at the top of each column of Post-its.
• Laminate the poster
• On the calendar markers, write the numbers 1-31 in large print.
• With the second poster, cut 12 strips for the months. Make them colorful. You may want to draw of glue seasonal symbols. You can also find these pre-made at Dollar Tree.
• Laminate the months and symbols. Stick Braille on if appropriate. (Your  V.I. specialist can label them for you) If braille is not appropriate for any of your students you can use dry-erase makers to write the numbers on your calendar each day--or allow student who are able to take turns writng the new number each day as in the calendar show in the photo.
• If using braille or if you prefer removeable numbers: Stick the velcro circles or squares in the center of the squares made by the Post-its on the laminated poster.
  Stick your number on top. Pull them off and store them in the ziplock bag.

PLEASE contact me in the comment section if these directions are not clear because it's the end of a work day and the mind is a terribel thing! LOL!

OLFACTORY KITS
These kits are what we saved the medicine containers for. I thank all the "regular ed" staff who helped me save these. My husband and I have been saving all of our med containers--and boy, do we take enough meds! LOL!  So if anyone who has not started one and needs containers, just contact me because we should have plenty to go around. Ask staf at your individual schools, too. Those of you who no longer have children on my caseload can still get some. Your V.I. teacher will know how to get them from me.

You Will Need:

• Address labels
• scents or objects with scents that will fit into
• empty, washed medicine containers
• cottonballs

Directions:

• Wash the containers and make sure the original labels are removed. You may need to soak them in warm soapy water for about 20 minutes.
• Collect scents from potpourri, hard candy, body sprays, cough drops, soap, shampoo, scented oils, spices, etc.
• Label each container with the scent it contains.
• For liquids, dampen cottonballs with them. This is for safety, incase one of the children can grab the container the liquid will not spill.
• Make sure that you change some liquids and food items when not using them for a while or they may spoil or grow mold in the containers. Ew!
• Make sure, if you use food items, that they don't have even the slightest essence of peanuts in them because even a whiff of peanuts can be hazzardous to our kids with severe allergies. You know your kids, though.

Calendar Boxes
For most of you that needed them, I purchased the giveaway Glad storage containers and glued them together with hot glue in strips of three to six. On the bottom I glued non-skid shelf-liner so the children cannot slide them around very easily as they work with them.

You were to find things that represented the time of day according to your schedule. I had a few things for you to use but I can't supply everyone and you know what objects will be the best symbols to use for your students.

One thing to note is that if you cannot find actual appropriate objects it is okay to use an abstract shape if you use the same one for the same activity each time. For instance, you may have an actual spoon to represent lunch and breakfast and a spoon will fit into one of the squares perfectly. But, try as you may, you will not fit a swing into one tiny square to represent recess or playground time.  In one class, we found a few links of chain to represent a swing. In my preschool V.I. class I used a tiny action figure--a baseball player-- and that worked for that child as a symbol for "playground."  Although she functioned as a deaf-blind child, I knew she understood when I saw her replace the symbol for "library" with the baseball figure as she laughed to herself, went to the door with her cane and announced, "Playground time, class!"

Zipper Pulls

These are simply the smaller key rings from the crafts department at WalMart. We use them for helping children with dexterity issues, to grasp zippers on their little pants, coats or bookbags. Put the hook part in the hole that is on the metal part of the zipper and hook the ring, if needed, to the hook.

JingleBell Bracelets
These were not just Christmas toys and I tried to get one to each of you so that you can see how they are made and make them as needed. The purpose for our multi-disabled children is to teach cause and effect. if they have a jinglebell attached to a piece if elastic around their arm and they're capable of moving their arm they may soon associate that when they move, the bell rings. I used rather quite bells on the ones I brought around but you can use velcro straps and larger bells or even clusters of bells--depending on the strength and mobility the child has in an arm or leg and how much jingling your ears can stand. LOL!

I pray these ideas were a help for our multi-disabled visually impaired children this semester and I will have more items that we can work on together for the second semester.

Video links for Students with Visual Impairments

Equal Access: Science and Students with Sensory Impairments : http://youtu.be/3-PoIJ6VjWA

Adaptive P.E. Games for Blind and Visually Impaired Students by Elina Mullen, Ed.D., of TSBVI http://youtu.be/PB9eCkh4Ryk

Field Trip for Blind & Visually Impaired Students : http://youtu.be/pGYBamx_8D0

Watch me go! Blind Preschooler Uses cane : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rIGN44XJ7bY&feature=colike

What type of school should a visually impaired student attend? : http://youtu.be/YBiaCFwEv6U

Firefighters train with visually impaired students:  http://youtu.be/EdiJXyxBjs4

Understanding the Visually Impaired (Helping #3); http://youtu.be/p0BBRbvde2U

http://www.kathyskids.org

Ms. Kathy's Kids Blog: http://mskathyskids.blogspot.com/

NPR.org - Note-Taking Made Easy For Legally Blind Students

Ms. Kathy thought you would be interested in this story: Note-Taking Made Easy For Legally Blind Students
http://www.npr.org/2011/04/15/135442950/note-taking-made-easy-for-legally-blind-students?sc=emaf

*Listen/Watch on NPR.org*
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above, look for a "Listen" or "Watch" button.
For technical support, please visit NPR's Audio/Visual Help page:
http://help.npr.org/npr/consumer/kbdetail.asp?kbid=152

Visual Impairments Criteria form from Virginia

http://www.docstoc.com/docs/50916772/Visual-Impairment-Visual-impairment-including-blindness-means

Here's a form for eligibilty requirement criteria for visually impaired children in Roanoke, VA. Pretty neat, eh?

Visual Impairments Specialist
Westminster Elementary School
http://lee.ebrschools.org/kathynicholslee
http://www.kathyskids.org
http://mskathy.proboards30.com
http://mskathyskids.blogspot.com

ABC conference flyer - PLEASE FORWARD TO ANYONE WHO MAY KNOW A VISUALLY IMPAIRED CHILD

7^th annual

Cradle to Career: the ABCs of Blindness Conference

A learning experience for teachers and families of Louisiana's visually impaired children

-     Presentations  -

orientation & mobility for children, assistive technology for the classroom, what the voices of experience tell us, low vision for the classroom, new assessment tools, visually impaired infants and toddlers, children with disabilities who are also blind, IEPs, guide dogs, braille, life skills and more! 

Teachers: Don't miss the Teacher Retreat, Friday April 8^th, noon – 4 (Friday lunch provided for teachers who pre-register)

Where:        Holiday Inn West  

5555 Financial Plaza

Shreveport, Louisiana  71129 (318) 688 3000

When:          Thursday, April 7^th 8:30 am – 4 pm

                   Friday, April 8^th  9 am – noon

Teacher retreat  Friday April 8^th  noon - 4 pm

Don't Wait! Make your conference and hotel reservations now!

$80 per night (singles, doubles, triples), plus tax.  Please make reservations directly with Holiday Inn West by calling (318) 688 3000.  Don't forget to mention that you will be attending the ABC's of Blindness Conference and/or the state convention of the NFBLA to receive convention rates.

BUFFET-STYLE LUNCHEON IS PROVIDED THURSDAY FOR PRE-REGISTRANTS, SO PRE-REGISTER AND JOIN US FOR LUNCH!

Conference Registration: $20 pre-registration or $25 at the door.

Register online at NFBLA.org >Quick Links >Cradle to Career Conference

Questions? Contact Dr. Ruby Ryles Louisiana Tech University

318 257 2028

See you in Shreveport!!

Visual Impairments Specialist
Westminster Elementary School
http://lee.ebrschools.org/kathynicholslee
http://www.kathyskids.org
http://teacherweb.com/LA/RobertELeeHigh/MrsMichael/t.aspx
http://mskathyskids.blogspot.com

January items of Interest from the LCB

Greetings Colleagues-

Below, please find several items of interest including:

• a reminder of the February 9 Braille Challenge in Baton Rouge
• SPBH gets a name change
• the second annual NFB LAW Program
• The annual youth and adult writing contests sponsored by the Writers' Division of the NFB
• Summer internship opportunity with the Dept. of defense

I hope that everyone had a fantastic holiday break and that 2011 has started positively. Please do not hesitate to contact me regarding any of the following information and/or about our summer programs and outreach services.

THE 2011 BRAILLE CHALLENGE

The Time to Sign Up Is Now

Greetings Everyone,

Louisiana School for the Visually Impaired and The Louisiana Center for the Blind are excited to announce the 2011 Louisiana Regional Braille Challenge. The event will take place on Wednesday, February 9, 2011 on the LSDVI campus located at 2888 Brightside Drive in Baton Rouge. The event is slated to begin at 9:00 a.m. and conclude at approximately 3:00 p.m. The Braille Challenge consists of a series of tests designed to evaluate one's proficiency in interpreting and utilizing the literary Braille code.

Students in grades 1-12 are eligible to participate in the event. Please visit http://www.braillechallenge.org/ for more comprehensive information about the contest (i.e., sample tests etc).

Though the thought of taking Braille exams may seem less than enjoyable to students, it should be noted that they are eligible to receive prizes and that for students who do extremely well, there is an opportunity to travel to Los Angeles to take part in the Braille Challenge finals during the summer. Louisiana has sent students to L.A. in the recent past, and we hope to do so again this year.

For questions, or to sign your student up for the Challenge, please contact Phil Templet at LSVI via email at phil.templet@la.gov

or Patricia Geiss via e-mail at patricia.geiss@la.gov.

We hope to see you and your student in Baton Rouge for a day of fun and competition!

NEWS FROM THE STATE LIBRARY

Emma Schroth, children and Teen Services Librarian for the State Library, informed us that as of December 10, 2010, the Services for the Blind and Physically Handicapped (SBPH) has changed its name to the Talking Book and Braille Library (TBBL). The new name is meant to reflect what the agency does rather than simply who it serves; it also highlights the critical importance of Braille literacy.

The National Federation of the Blind Announces the 2011 NFB Leadership and Advocacy in Washington, D.C., (LAW) Program

Engaging the Voice of America's Blind Youth

April 8-12, 2011

This four-day experience will provide blind and low-vision students in grades six to nine, or ages twelve to sixteen, with a unique opportunity to explore the inner workings of our country's government, its history, and its culture, while staying at the headquarters for the National Federation of the Blind in Baltimore, Maryland. In addition to learning about grassroots legislation efforts, how resolutions are passed, and how blindness legislation is created, participants will become familiar with advocacy work for blind individuals and available resources for blind students and adults. Highlights of the program include: visits to historical sites in Washington, D.C., meetings with influential government leaders, presentations by prominent leaders from the largest blindness advocacy group in the country, a tour of the National Federation of the Blind national headquarters, and opportunities to interact with technology from the International Braille and Technology Center, the largest lab of Braille and speech products for the blind.

Twenty-four students will be accepted for the LAW program. All accepted students must be accompanied by a parent/guardian, teacher, or blind/low-vision mentor from their home state. There will be a $250 fee per student/chaperone pair. Transportation, room, and board will be provided for students and chaperones.

Apply now by going to

http://www.nfb.org/LAWProgram

Applications are due by February 1, 2011. For more information, contact Treva Olivero, Education Program Specialist, at (410) 659-9314, extension 2295, or by e-mail at <mailto:teolivero@nfb.org>teolivero@nfb.org.

YOUTH AND ADULT WRITING CONTESTS

The annual youth and adult writing contests sponsored by the Writers' Division of the NFB, will open January 1st and close April 1st.

Adult contests, poetry, fiction and non-fiction, are open to all entrants eighteen years and over.

The youth contests are all about Braille and all poetry and fiction entries are required to be submitted in Braille. The age groups are divided into three categories: first through sixth grades, seventh and eighth grades, and ninth through twelfth grades.

Prizes for contest winners range up to $100 for adult categories and up to $25 for youth categories.

All contest winners will be announced at the Writers' Division business meeting during the NFB national convention to be held in Orlando, Florida, the first week of July, 2011. In addition, shortly after convention, a list of winners will appear on the Writers' Division Website, http://www.nfb-writers-division.org/.

First, second, and third place winners in each category will appear in the summer and fall issues of the Writers' Division magazine, "Slate and Style."

For additional contest details and submission guidelines, go to the Writers' Division Website, http://www.nfb-writers-division.org/.

Robert Leslie Newman, President

NFB Writers' Division

Email- newmanrl@cox.net

Division Website

http://www.nfb-writers-division.org/

POSSIBLE INTERNSHIP OPPORTUNITY FOR 10th-12th GRADE STUDENTS

Friends,

Are you a 10th through 12th grade student interested in Science Technology Engineering and Math (STEM)? Are you interested in making some money over the summer? You can apply to have a paid internship with the Department of Defense. Visit:

http://bit.ly/ax50vV for more information.

If you are interested in information about STEM follow @NFBScience on Twitter and visit http://www.blindscience.org/.

Regards,

Natalie

Natalie L. Shaheen, MEd

Education Program Specialist

Jernigan Institute

Phone: (410) 659-9314 x2293

Email: nshaheen@nfb.org

Eric Guillory, Director of Youth Services

Louisiana Center for the Blind

101 South Trenton Street

Ruston, LA 71270

Phone: 800-234-4166

Fax: 318-251-0109

Sorry for posting this so late. I had it stored for a couple of weeks. ~K

Performers from the Sghree Ramana Maharishi Academy for the Blind in India

http://www.pjstar.com/news/x1389367421/Performers-from-the-Shree-Ramana-Maharishi-Academy-for-the-Blind-in-India