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Tips for Volunteers

-- Tips on how to include persons with visual impairments in recreational activities--

• Speak to individuals with visual impairments by name; identify and introduce yourself. 
  

• Describe the environment and what is going on in the room. 
  

• Introduce individuals with visual impairments to others.  Let others introduce themselves so the individual with visual impairments can become familiar with their voices.
  

• Make a specific point of including people with visual impairments in activities and discussions in social occasion.
  

• When you must leave, inform the individuals with visual impairments.  Also, introduce the individual to another person and put them in touch with a table, chair, wall or another person.
  

• While demonstrating an activity, verbally describe what is being done.  Use specific directions.  Name body parts and objects being used.

• Have individuals with visual impairments seated close to a demonstration so that the person can see or touch (if appropriate) and assistance can be easily given, if needed.

• Ask the individuals with visual impairments if, and what kind of, assistance is needed.  Use sighted guide techniques to physically guide if needed or desired.  Also allow the person freedom and independence to try new things.

• Specifically name and describe objects being used.  Enable the visually impaired person to arrange materials where they can be found independently.

• Use your own creativity as well as adapted games and equipment to enable the individuals with visual impairments to participate.

Remember:  It may take people with visual impairments a little longer to learn something new because they cannot see how it is done.  Please be patient.