APH ConnectCenter Physical Activity Webinar Programs 

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Editor’s Note: Dr. Lauren Lieberman and Ruth Childs share information about a seven-part APH ConnectCenter webinar series where Dr. Lieberman and additional experts will provide information, examples, and tools to support access to recreation and physical activity for all children, including those who are blind or low vision. 

APH ConnectCenter Physical Activity Webinar Programs  

Now is the time to gear up for a summer of recreation and physical activity for ALL children.  Unfortunately, for some children with blindness, low vision or multiple disabilities, engaging in sports and recreation may be daunting.  It can be equally daunting for these children’s teachers, camp counselors, coaches, and parents.  Access to and inclusion in physical activity, sports, and recreation does not have to be challenging.   

This APH ConnectCenter Webinar Series aims to provide information, examples, and tools to demystify the process.  Here is the list of titles, a little overview, and the webinar dates.

The Foundation of Self Advocacy

An Overview of self-advocacy, highlighting research on self-determination, the dignity of risk, bullying, and pre-teaching.  An explanation of the four components of self-advocacy, as well as the five-step process, will also be included.  Participants will leave with tools they can implement immediately.

Teaching Self-Advocacy to Children with Blindness or Low Vision

Using the previous webinar as a starting point, this session will delve into the definition and importance of self-advocacy.  It will also examine the relationship between self-advocacy, self-determination, and independence.  Participants will reflect on what they already practice regarding self-advocacy and also learn how to include self-advocacy into their teaching practice mindfully.  They will learn more about the four components of self-advocacy and the five-step process.  Many examples will be provided, as well as tools to develop an action plan. 

Gross Motor Development Programming for Young Children with Blindness or Low Vision

Young children with blindness or low vision must be intentionally taught foundational skills to be proficient movers.  This session will review specific strategies to help children with VI meet motor milestones. 

Outdoor Adventure Programming  

Outdoor adventure has shown to be very beneficial for youth with blindness or low vision.  Engaging with family and peers in rock climbing, mountain biking, kayaking, hiking, and cross-country skiing can be empowering and fun.  Come to this workshop and learn to include all children in outdoor adventure programming.

Gross Motor Development Instructional Strategies

Children with blindness or low vision often miss specific instruction on foundational motor skills.  These gross motor skills – running, batting, kicking, rolling, and sliding – are the foundation of many blind sports.  We will review these skills and share instructional strategies. Resources such as books, videos, tip sheets, and websites will be provided to all attendees.

Athlete Panel on Self Advocacy

Self-advocacy is a sport and an art.  Listen to teen athletes explain how they overcame barriers to be active in their team/individual sports. 

Expanded Core Curriculum Infused into Physical Activity and Physical Education  

Mastery of the skills in the Expanded Core Curriculum (ECC) is necessary to be independent and successful adults.  The components of the ECC are included into physical education, recreation, fitness, and physical activity.  This presentation will provide a variety of ways to infuse each component of the ECC into everyday physical activities.