Introduction to the use of the white cane in the early developmental age: proposal of an observation form.

The white cane is both a symbol of blindness and a tool for autonomous mobility, which allows the achievement of different purposes: ➢ Reaching independently a precise destination ➢ Performing daily activities ➢ Supporting private life ➢ Encouraging participation in social life In the present study, conducted at the Robert Hollman Foundation in Padova (Italy), we investigated both the technical aspects related to the use of the white cane and the psychological-emotional implications associated with its use. In this study, we devised an observation form with the aim of arriving at an informative tool to assess the usefulness of the white cane in the early developmental age. The choice of what is the most suitable moment to introduce the use of the white cane, and so start the process of acquiring autonomous mobility, is still a topic of discussion among professionals in this sector. Furthermore, we believe that this observational form could become a guiding tool for professionals in the observation and evaluation of the blind child, in order to define when to start the use of the cane. This form, if filled in periodically, would allow professionals also to monitor the evolution of the child and to adapt objectives and strategies according to his/her specific needs.