These might include understanding that tactual markers on doorways identify the gym or the restroom, using an adaptive mobility device or a cane to identify obstacles and drop-offs, or locating a street sign using a monocular. A primary goal of orientation and mobility training is to help each child with visual impairments achieve independent movement to as great a degree as possible. Some children may be preparing to get a dog guide, or learning how to access public transportation to get across town to a job. For children with additional disabilities, independent movement might focus on traveling independently in a wheelchair, or learning how to help get yourself into a van using a lift. It might mean helping the child learn to control the speed of movement on his walker as he goes down a ramp.
Independent movement is tied to growth in other areas, such as communication and socialization.
For example, though a child may not be able to tell you he's hungry, if he can take you to the kitchen you will probably understand that he wants something to eat or drink. Peers are more likely to invite your daughter to go to the mall if she can keep up with the group by using sighted guide technique or traveling with a cane. Going where we want when we want gives us control and allows us to make choices. The Sonic Pathfinder is a head mounted ultrasonic mobility device designed for outdoor use in conjunction with either a long cane, dog guide or residual vision. The Sonic Pathfinder gives the user advance warning of objects which lie within the travel path.