Thriving on the Sidewalk: Orientation & Mobility with Trisha Conklin

Jenny interviews Trisha Conkin. Trisha is a Licensed Teacher for the Visually Impaired (TVI) and a Certified Orientation & Mobility Specialist (COMS) who has proudly served with VIPS for the past three years. Since beginning her career in 2002, Trisha has worked as an itinerant TVI and O&M specialist throughout Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana, supporting children from preschool through 12th grade with a wide range of vision and diverse educational needs.  She is passionate about partnering with families to help their children build independence, confidence, and the skills they need to succeed. At VIPS, Trisha is dedicated to empowering families of children with blindness or low vision to reach their fullest potential.

Paige, Jenny and Dr. Cathy explore the challenges of introducing orientation and mobility (O&M) to young children, especially the early use of canes. Dr. Cathy discusses how O&M practices have evolved and the emotional hurdles families face. Jenny and Paige share personal stories about public reactions, early independence, and building spatial awareness. The episode emphasizes supporting families, reducing stigma, and helping them understand the long‑term benefits of early O&M.

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Thriving on the Sidewalk: Orientation & Mobility with Trisha Conklin