As your child begins to learn low traffic crossings such as driveways, crosswalks, and residential corners, it will be helpful to practice getting into ready position. This will be a skill they will use for even more advanced crossings. The child will come to the edge of a curb (or upon finding truncated domes, or when coming to a driveway) they will stop, plant their feet (keeping their nose and toes pointing in the direction they want to go), and place their cane in a diagonal cane position. They will then make an X shaped motion to check for any obstacles, uneven surfaces, puddles or potholes that might be in their path, and then return to the ready position. Next will be to listen and look in all the needed directions to ensure there is no traffic, or that they have an open window to cross safely. Your child can let you know that it is all safe or all clear to go. They will move in a straight line of travel from corner to corner, walking with purpose, and stepping up quickly onto the curb.
If your child has a hard time focusing: have them take a deep breath, plant their feet, wiggle their toes, and place their cane at a diagonal to help them feel grounded. When you are with your child making these crossings, place your body in a position that will not block any visual or auditory information from reaching them (usually back and on the inside portion of the sidewalk – away from the traffic).
Also, we wanted to mention here that when making a simple street crossing, help your child feel the slight rise and fall that occurs when traveling from ones side of the curb, up and over the combre or crown of the street and then back down to the opposite curb. Some streets have more of a crown then others to help with the drainage of water.
Have fun exploring the world with your child!