Both the Buddy Program and the S.T.E.P. Program provide your blind child with unique opportunities for learning and growing. In 1989, the Louisiana Center for the Blind introduced an innovative summer program for legally blind children between the ages of nine and fourteen. The four-week program allows children to participate in classes in the alternative techniques of blindness like Braille and cane travel. Children also participate in a wide variety of recreational activities like camping, horseback riding, and roller skating. Most importantly, they are exposed to successful blind adults who serve as mentors.
Children also have the chance to interact with blind peers.
In 1990, a program was created to address the needs of blind high school students between the ages of fourteen and eighteen. The eight-week summer program is divided into two sections. During the first four weeks, competent blind counselors will instruct the students in the alternative techniques of blindness. Classes in Braille literacy, cane travel, typing, computer literacy and independent living skills will be taught by qualified blind instructors. In addition, seminars will be conducted in the areas of job readiness, job interviewing skills, resume writing, and job responsibilities.