Using a cane can help a child find his way and give him more confidence, especially for walking in places he is not familiar with. With practice, it can also help him to walk in a faster, more normal way, with long, sure steps. This is because he can feel farther ahead of him with his cane than with his feet. The best age to start teaching a child to use a cane is probably about 6 or 7.
The cane should be thin and light, and tall enough so that it reaches half way between the child's waist and shoulders. The top of the cane can be curved or straight.
At first just give the child the cane and have him lightly touch the ground in front of him as he walks. His arm should be straight.
Play games letting him feel his way. But do not hurry him. Stop before he gets tired of it. At first, 5 or 10 minutes is enough.
After he gets used to the cane, walk beside him and encourage him to take smooth, even steps.
Have him swing the cane from side to side, and see if he can find things in his path.
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Move the stick from side to side, lightly touching the ground. The width of the swing should be a little more than the width of his shoulders. As the stick touches to one side, move the foot on the other side forward. |
On a narrow path or rough ground, someone can lead the child by the stick. Or the child can hold the person's elbow or wrist. |
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The child can learn to feel the height of steps and curbs, and then to climb them. To go up steps, it is better to hold the stick like this to feel the position of each step.
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Do not hold it like this. This can cause the cane to stop suddenly and hit the child in the stomach.
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