GUIDANCE THROUGH CONTACT

To support the movement of a child with visual impairment during sports activities, it is essential to use appropriate guiding methods is essential.

These may involve physical contact, such as lightly holding the child’s arm or shoulder, or relying on the auditory channel, using clear verbal cues, sound signals, or voice orientation. Ideally, these two methods can be combined, providing multisensory input that enhances spatial awareness, autonomy, and confidence.

The choice of the most suitable method should be based on the type of activity, the environment, the level of visual impairment, and the individual preferences and comfort of the child. Moreover, the specific conditions of the game or sport determine which approach ensures the best balance between safety, effectiveness, and inclusion.

Guiding children with visual impairments through direct physical contact can be a safe, respectful, and empowering approach when done correctly. The key is to maintain the child’s comfort, autonomy, and safety while facilitating their participation in physical activities.

Contact-based guidance techniques can be adapted for a wide range of settings and are especially valuable for activities involving movement such as running, throwing, or navigating a sports facility.

The contact can be direct, for example, by holding hands or lightly grasping the guide’s elbow or forearm, which allows the child to follow the guide’s body movements closely. Alternatively, it can be mediated through an object, such as a hoop, rope, or short tether, which maintains a physical link while offering a bit more distance or flexibility in movement. 

Physical contact guidance is particularly useful in sports situations that are more complex or unpredictable, such as those involving sudden changes of direction, uneven terrain, or crowded spaces. This method allows for a more precise and secure form of support, enabling the child to move with greater confidence and safety.

Below, some indicative techniques are presented:

1. Tether Guidance

According to the Ontario Blind Sports Association in their publication “An Introduction to Guide Running”, tether guidance is one of the most commonly preferred guiding methods in sports.

• Each participant holds one end of the tether.
• The guide provides verbal feedback, cues, or warnings to help the runner anticipate any changes in pace, direction, or obstacles.

It is also possible to use some tools, such as a hoop, for guided movement, especially in introductory or balance-based exercises.

It’s important that the guide learns to anticipate and manage the space required to move together with the child smoothly, especially during dynamic activities. This includes adjusting pace, predicting movement patterns, and maintaining consistent communication to ensure mutual coordination and trust.

2. Running Line

The running line method allows children to run independently while maintaining orientation and safety.

• A tensioned rope or elastic is stretched in a straight line from point A to point B.
• The child holds onto the line with one hand and runs along its length.
• This method fosters independence and is ideal for sprint exercises or relay-style games.

3. Shoulder or Elbow Grip

This is a non-intrusive guiding technique useful for walking, jogging, or navigating complex spaces.

• First and foremost: Ask the child for consent before offering help.
• If they accept, they place one hand lightly on the guide’s shoulder or elbow.
• As the guide moves, the child can sense changes in direction and pace through body movement.
• This method is especially useful for transitions between activity areas, stairs, or uneven surfaces.

Why These Methods Matter

Each of these guiding techniques empowers children with visual impairments to participate fully in physical activities while developing confidence, spatial awareness, and independence. When applied with care, they create a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment that supports both learning and fun.