This activity has been revised and was originally created by Charlotte Cushman and published in the Perkins Activity and Resource Guide (1st edition, 1992). The second edition is available for purchase.
It’s important for students who are blind to be able to use adults as resources and to identify familiar adults by name. This activity reinforces those skills. Lessons include Concept Development and Independent Living Skills.
Motivating toy or other reinforcer
Stand on the opposite side of the room from the student with a preferred toy or edible treat in your hand. Cue him to call your name and then dramatically run to him saying, “Here I am! You called my name. What would you like?” Cue the student to name the reinforcer, but using your name to frame the request (e.g. model the request, “Mark, I want the music box, please.”). Give him the object after he requests it.
Note: When a student is just learning to name familiar adults, this activity is best introduced when there are two adults present. One adult can cue the student, while the named adult waits to be called.
Hints: Encourage students to call familiar adults by name throughout the day, when appropriate – for example, at snack time or free time, when they need help, when greeting a friend, and when making a request. Model the appropriate phrases for them as necessary.