I’ve been meaning to make a post about virtual learning since we began our experience officially on April 20th. Prior to that there was work that I produced for the kids, as well as supplemental things from teachers and the county/individual schools websites. I’ve realized, once again how lucky, rather, how much of a privilege it is for us to still be able to “teach” and reinforce learning during this time. Children like Owen who have IEP’s (Individualized Education Program) don’t just miraculously not need their services any longer just because they aren’t physically at school. ••• Owen’s TVI Ms. Gina (Teacher of the Visually Impaired) meets with him via Google Hangout. She has given us SO many resources, both physical and virtual for him to use. Virtually working with a VI student is challenging to say the least, and last week Owen really struggled (Mommy too). But this week was completely the opposite. They had an hour and a half session and he was engaged the whole time. I’m right there with him because he’s using the laptop, his Braille writer and other resources she has provided us. It’s really amazing how much she has done to ensure he has every tool he needs (and then some, like the tactile dominoes!) ••• Additionally, his O&M Instructor Mr. Poole (Orientation and Mobility) has been doing his best to make sure Owen is getting practice with his cane, among other things. He sent a home made video last weekend which was a perfect example for Owen on safety while walking or riding his bike in a neighborhood. We had a FaceTime session and he spoke with Owen and went over the video we watched. He provided us links for O&M that we can do at home as well. ••• Last, his OT (Occupational Therapist) has created a weekly email chain that has resources for all levels of learning and links for different activities depending on the child’s needs. For example, Owen requires bold lined paper and assistance/guidance when using scissors; this is where Ms. Dawn comes in. ••• #OpticNerveHypoplasia #SeptoOpticDysplasia #VisuallyImpaired #disABILITY #VIMomLife #VirtualLearning #DistanceLearning #TVI #TeacherOfTheVisuallyImpaired #OrientationAndMobility #OccupationalTherapy https://www.instagram.com/p/CAKC_GBAbC_Op1_10M-FJF6_8USMOibuTocMq80/?igshid=1j9yto8sucmnb
