How do we know when a child is ready to use a cane?

The simple answer is ‘when they are ready’! Every child is different and their reactions to the cane will also be different. The most important thing to make them ready is to have them interact with the cane and accept it as part of the toys and household items they interact with on a regular basis. This could mean leaving it in the toy box and giving it a name. They will not be using it in the context of mobility at this stage. The first step is for the child to be comfortable and familiar with its presence. The first step is for the child to be comfortable and familiar with its presence. Then they are ready for the next step!

We do not often train any children under three years old, as they are just not referred to us. We have trained one child of two this year. Parents often consult an occupational therapist or physiotherapist as there are more of them and easier to access. We have the only Orientation and Mobility Practitioner in South Africa, who has had specialist training in O&M services to children. Tracey Joubert completed her masters in O&M, specialising in children, at Western Michigan University.