River Ridge Vision Services Orientation & Mobility Mall and Movie Day

Navigation and Sensory Skills Training

Students practiced orientation and mobility (O&M) skills through a sensory scavenger hunt at the mall, learning to utilize non-visual cues like sound, texture, and temperature. They also received instruction on digital navigation tools, including Google Maps and the OKO app, which helps identify pedestrian signals.

Job Exploration and Workforce Preparation

The program integrated career readiness by discussing local job opportunities at retail stores and the movie theater. Students learned about the application process, discovering that while many applications are online, hand-delivering resumes can be an effective way to differentiate oneself as a candidate.

Practical Life and Social Skills

Students demonstrated independence by managing a $25 lunch and snack budget at the theater and utilizing audio description headphones for the movie. The day concluded with route analysis, reflecting on workplace preferences, and a social gathering, reinforcing the transition-ready skills necessary for independent living.