According to the author, blind students are not developmentally ready to do a coordinated, complete touch technique until between the age of 12 to 14. Many students naturally drop the cane down and to the side rather than keep it centered. NFB and mobility colleges have a divergence of opinion about how long a cane should be. The word should be popping up in kindergarten, and old hat by the end of first grade. This is critical.
Quality of life is at stake.
The cane is the key tool for independent mobility. Poor cane techniques, using the diagonal and touch skills incorrectly, are not examples of bad habits. To expect graceful, exact cane skills at a young age is unrealistic and unfair. Young children have difficulty making small, refined movements. Also, Motor delays are not uncommon with blind children.