PRESS INFORMATION ________________________________________________

Play imitation games with your child, getting them to walk like a cat, wriggle like a worm, crawl sideways like a crab or jump and hop like a kangaroo.

These are just some of the many activities suggested by the Royal National Institute for the Blind (RNIB) in 'Get up and Go!', a new booklet which aims to help a blind or partially sighted child move confidently and safely.

The publication launched today (Tuesday 3 June) explains why movement is vital to learning. It covers topics like helping your child to identify and interpret sound, exploring independence skills, developing a sense of direction and distance and how to obtain mobility training for your child.

RNIB's Education Information Service Manager, Nancy Chambers, said: "This booklet will help your child move around safely. It is about having a good time and is packed with activities and games. All these ideas can help your child to develop and practise his or her skills while playing."

According to the booklet, another good way of encouraging movement is to let your child try to bounce and catch a large ball with a bell inside.

Secretary of the UK group of Mobility Specialists in Education, Geoff Aplin, said:

"Get up and Go! is an excellent booklet which draws together a wealth of ideas. It is attractive and easy to read and will be invaluable to parents and practitioners."

Get up and Go! is part of RNIB's Early Years Series for parents and professionals working with blind or partially sighted children from birth to ten years.

Priced £3.50 Get up and Go is available from RNIB Customer Services, P0 Box 173, Peterborough, PE2 6W5, 0345 023153.

For further information please call Kate Pierce or Cohn Joseph in RNIB's Press Office on 0171 636 1153 (Mobile: 0402648267) (Ref 065)

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