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Clinical Ophthalmology published an article called The Role of a Pediatric Belt Cane in Children with Cerebral Visual Impairment a pilot study that used smartphone videos from 11 children with clinical diagnosed CVI at baseline and 8-week follow-up while wearing a Pediatric Belt Cane. Belt Cane use was associated with improved gait speed, with supportive improvements in step length and foot-mobility. That's because bipedal ambulation (walking) is not possible without unaltere

Mobility tools for children with a visual impairment are specially designed to meet their unique needs. Unlike adults, children require devices that are lightweight, easy to handle, and adaptable to their smaller frames. The pediatric mobility tool category includes various aids, but the Belt Cane has gained attention for its practical benefits.

At Safe Toddles, we often find that the most meaningful support begins with a story. Today, we want to share one such story and express our deep gratitude to Ovintiv USA Inc. for their generous $5,000 donation through the 5 for a Cause employee giving initiative. This gift is more than financial support—it is a powerful reminder of how compassion and community can open doors for children with unique challenges.

Dr. Grace Ambrose-Zaken was interviewed by Stephen Usery for an upcoming episode on the radio program Eye On Vision. The episode is scheduled to air at approximately 12:15 PM Eastern on Sunday, December 28, 2025, on FM 89.3 WYPL in Memphis. To catch this insightful interview, tune in to FM 89.3 WYPL on Sunday, December 28, 2025, at about 12:15 PM Eastern. If you are outside the Memphis area or prefer online listening, the station streams live at http://memphislibary.org/wypl

When a child faces challenges with vision, mobility becomes a crucial part of their independence and confidence. Pediatric mobility aids are designed to support children in navigating their world safely and effectively. These tools are not just devices; they are bridges to freedom, exploration, and self-reliance. Today, I want to share insights about one such essential aid and the broader landscape of pediatric mobility aids that empower young lives.

When it comes to helping children with visual impairments navigate the world safely and confidently, the right tools make all the difference. Pediatric mobility aids are designed specifically to meet the unique needs of young users. Among these aids, one stands out for its practicality and effectiveness: the pediatric belt cane. This tool is more than just a cane; it’s a bridge to independence, safety, and confidence for children learning to move through their environment.

Safety is paramount when it comes to overseeing the education and play of young children. The Pediatric Belt Cane plays a crucial role in reducing risks associated with immature cane handling. When a cane is dropped or misplaced, the child may be vulnerable to tripping or losing orientation. The belt eliminates these hazards by keeping the cane firmly attached.

In the latest episode of the Ophthalmology Innovation Summit (OIS) Podcast, Creating an Easier-to-Navigate World for Children, Safe Toddles President and CEO Grace Ambrose-Zaken, Ph.D., joins host Robert Rothman to discuss her groundbreaking work developing the Pediatric Belt Cane—a first-of-its-kind mobility device that’s changing what’s possible for blind and visually impaired children.

Safe Toddles announces a major milestone: transitioning from 3D-printed to injection molded plastic parts for the Pediatric Belt Cane. This advancement means stronger, heat-resistant, and more durable components, helping children who are blind or visually impaired move safely and confidently.

Safe Toddles receives a $30,000 grant from the William G. and Helen C. Hoffman Foundation—their second year of support—to expand early mobility access for blind children through Pediatric Belt Canes, training, and family outreach.

Discover the fascinating origin story of orientation and mobility (O&M) for children born with visual impairments. From early pre-cane skills to the invention of the long cane, learn how blind children and WWII veterans shaped safe independent mobility, and why early intervention transformed the way blind toddlers learn to navigate their world.

From the 1700s to the 1900s, blind children were often excluded from mobility training and safe exploration. This post traces the evolution of early intervention practices—from the first institutions for blind youth to the emergence of orientation and mobility education. Learn how early efforts, both groundbreaking and flawed, laid the groundwork for today’s innovations in independent movement for children born blind.