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31 days. 31 ways to better vision health.

YOUR CLASSROOM ACTION KIT

MAY 2012

We’re here to help! Feel free to get in touch any time.

www.ShadesOfFun.ca

1Shades of Fun | May 2012

About Shades of FunProtect your eyes. Support CNIB. Have fun!

May is Vision Health Month across Canada. To celebrate, CNIB is holding Shades of Fun, a month-long initiative that promotes vision health awareness and raises funds for services that support people who are blind or partially sighted, right in your own community.

Join thousands of teachers and students from coast to coast by taking part in this fun educational event that teaches kids about protecting their vision – and helps Canadians with vision loss lead the lives they want.

#1 Designate a day to share Shades of Fun with your students.

Here’S HOw YOur ClASS CAn get inVOlVed Taking part is easy – there’s no prep work involved. All your students need is a pair of shades and a little creativity.

1) Choose a day to have your students wear sunglasses to class.

2) Help them learn about vision health with the fun in-class info and activities provided in this kit.

3) Raise money for the vital rehabilitation servicesthat help Canadians who are blind or partially sighted lead independent lives.

4) Submit your fundraised dollars online, by phone or by using the enclosed form.

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31 ways to change the futurewHAt’S in tHiS kit? • Page 3: simple tips for taking care of your vision• Page 4-5: engaging in-class activities to educate your

students about vision health and challenge misconceptions about vision loss

• Page 6: activity zone that you can photocopy • Pages 7: a quick list of common eye conditions • Pages 8-10: tips and ideas to put the “fun” in fundraising!• Back: a poster to motivate your students to

achieve their fundraising goals

#2 Learn more about CNIB and how you can help.

About Seeing beyond vision loss.

For more than 90 years, CniB has been helping Canadians who are blind or partially sighted see beyond the challenges of vision loss – ensuring they have the support they need to lead full, active lives.

the funds you raise for Shades of Fun will help CniB:

• give children who are blind or partially sighted the building blocks for learning.

• help people with visions loss learn to get around their homes or city by themselves, by bus, subway or on foot.

• prepare teens with vision loss for rewarding careers and independent adult lives.

• ensure adults who are blind and partially sighted have the technology and skills they need to succeed in the workforce.

• support seniors to live independently and safely at home as they adjust to age-related vision loss.

• give Canadians of all ages the emotional and practical support they need to overcome the challenges of vision loss.

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Why Shades?Tips for taking care of your eyes!

#3 Be cool at school : Wear your shades to class and learn more about vision health.

#4 Protect your eyes al l year round: Wear your shades while outdoors every day, no matter what the season. Sunshine isn’t just around in the summer – you’re always at risk from ultraviolet (UV) rays and glare. UV exposure isn’t good for your eyes; it can increase your risk of developing cataracts (a clouding of the lens that causes blurred vision) and age-related macular degeneration, the leading cause of vision loss in Canada.

#5 Avoid g lare: Bright reflections off shiny surfaces like snow, vehicles or buildings can cause discomfort as your pupils contract, your eyelids narrow and the muscles around your eyes constrict as you squint. Besides being painful, glare can also be a distraction when playing sports or driving. Reflected ultraviolet light can also enter the eye and may be harmful to the eye, slip on some shades and stay safe.

#6 Try before you buy: Quality sunglasses will help protect your eyes from damage. Check that they offer 99 or 100 per cent UVA and UVB protection. (They should say so on the label. Often they will just say UV400. This means the same thing. If you’re not sure, just ask.) They should be dark enough to reduce glare. To check, try them on in front of a mirror. If you can see your eyes, they’re not dark enough to block glare. And if you already wear glasses, remember – they might help you see better, but they don’t offer glare or UV protection. Clip-on shades that fit your glasses can offer the protection you need.

#7 When it comes to shades, bigger is defin itely better: Lenses should be large enough to block light entering from the sides. Sports models that wrap all the way around the temples are ideal. A hat with a wide brim can help block sunlight from overhead.

#8 You’re never too young to protect your eyes: Sunglasses on little kids aren’t just cute – they help keep their eyes safe. If your baby sister isn’t wearing shades, she might be at risk of eye damage. Tell your parents that a good pair of sunglasses is important for children of all ages.

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In-Class Activit iesTry the fo l l ow ing act iv i t i es i n

your c lass room

#9 Learn more about vision health and vision loss in Canada with these fun classroom activities.

Challenge misConCePtionsSplit your students into five groups. Give each group a name from this list of individuals who are challenging misconceptions about what it means to be blind or partially sighted. Have them research the name, then share what they’ve learned with the class. (You can also use some of the names in the “Famous people” quiz on page 6.)

• erik Weihenmayer (first person with vision loss to climb Mount Everest)

• lucas Murray (boy who is blind that “sees” with sound)

• Marla runyan (runner with vision loss) • esref Armagan (famed painter who is

blind) • B rian Mckeever (Canadian skier with

vision loss)

#10 Learn how people have overcome vision problems to achieve amazing things.

#11 Think about what it would feel like to be blind or partially sighted.

BrAinStOrM ideAS ABOut vision loss and PreventionDivide your class into groups, and have each group brainstorm on one of the following questions, writing down answers on a large piece of paper. After 10 minutes, have each group present their results to the class, which can lead to more discussion.

• What can we do to take care of our eyes and prevent vision loss?

• Have you ever met anyone with vision loss? How do you think their life is different from ours? How is it the same?

• Do you know of any famous people with vision loss? How have they overcome their vision challenges?

• What would life be like if you couldn’t see? How would life be different? How would it be the same? What challenges would you face?

• What would travelling be like with vision loss? Are there other ways to experience a place than just with your eyes? Think about what it would be like to take a trip if you were blind. What would going to a new friend’s house be like? Disney World? The beach? Other places you’ve been?

• What do you think school would be like if you couldn’t see?

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More In-Class Activities

#12 Get a taste of how a person who’s bl ind or part ia l ly s ighted might experience the world.

COMMuniCAte witH BrAilleVisit cnib.ca/en/living/braille and print out copies of the braille alphabet, then have students figure out how to write their names in braille. Place all the names in a hat and have each student draw a slip of paper and figure out whose name they have. Remind students that people who are blind or partially sighted would read raised dots with their fingers.

#13 Learn more about Annie Sul l ivan (Helen Kel ler’s teacher) and the things she achieved.

wAtCH “tHe MirACle wOrker”Show your class this inspiring film about Annie Sullivan, the tireless teacher who had vision loss herself and helped Helen Keller learn to communicate and connect with the world around her.

#14 Have fun and boost awareness by decorating your own sunglasses.

deCOrAte SOMe CrAzY SHAdeSSpend an afternoon decorating sunglasses with glitter, ribbons, stickers, pipe cleaners and other craft items. Talk about how important it is to protect your eyes from the sun, then have a fun fashion show featuring everyone’s amazing creations.

#15 Know the facts about vis ion loss and vis ion health.

SHAre tHeSe FACtS witH YOur ClASS• Researchers estimate that more than

one million Canadians are blind or partially sighted.

• Eye doctors recommend wearing sunglasses with at least 99 per cent UV protection to avoid sun damage.

• 75 per cent of vision loss is preventable or treatable.

• Only 45 per cent of people with vision loss have graduated from high school. However, 87 per cent of all adult Canadians (aged 25 to 64) have graduated from high school.

• More than three million Canadians (roughly 10 per cent of the population) are unable to read print because of a disability such as blindness or partial sight. However, less than 5 per cent of published material in Canada is available in multiple formats.

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Shades of FunACTIVITY ZONE!

#16 Learn about people who have changed the way the world sees vis ion loss.

Famous PeoPle Can you match the names to the correct descriptions?

#1 I’m the famous Grammy-winning singer, songwriter and record producer who wrote “Ebony and Ivory” and “Isn’t She Lovely,” among other tunes. I lost my sight as a child, but that didn’t stop me from having my first hit when I was only 13!

#2 Identify an everyday hero you know who has overcome the challenge of vision loss. What have they achieved? What makes them unique?

#3 I’m a marathon runner, and I was the first legally blind athlete to compete in the Olympics Games.

#4 I lost my vision and hearing when I was a baby, but it didn’t stop me from becoming a famous author, lecturer and activist.

#5 My system of raised dots enabled blind people like me to read and write for the first time in history.

#6 I am the founder of French impressionist painting. Late in my career, I started to go blind. However, even though my eyes kept getting worse, I never stopped painting. When I was almost completely blind, I created one of my most famous pieces of work – my murals of water lilies.

Hellen

Kel ler

Maria

Runyan

Louis

Braille

Claude

Monet

Stevie

Wonder

For more fun activities and info, visit www.shadesoffun.ca/kidzone

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Eye Conditions#17 Know your eye condit ions – catching them early can prevent vis ion loss.

Having a little trouble focusing on the board? You might be nearsighted. Maybe you’ve noticed that your parents need reading glasses? It means their eyes are aging, which can be annoying, but it’s completely normal. Has an older member of your family undergone eye surgery? They may have had cataracts removed so they can see better.

Here’s a quick guide to a few common eye conditions. It’s a great way to stay on top of your own eye health – and everyone else’s, too!

Diabetic retinopathyPeople who have diabetes are at risk of developing vision problems. The best way for them to prevent vision loss or blindness is with regular eye check-ups, and by properly caring for their diabetes.

(AMD) Age-related macular degenerationAMD, the leading cause of vision loss in Canada, is an eye condition that usually affects people over 50 and gets worse over time. It attacks central vision so people with AMD may no longer be able to read, drive or see the faces of loved ones. Lots of information exists about preventing the disease and promising new treatments are on the horizon.

CataractsLenses naturally harden with age, becoming cloudy. This can block light from reaching the retina, interfering with vision. A milky film over the eyes may indicate a cataract. This can occur in humans and animals. For most people surgery is an effective solution, a surgeon can replace the cloudy lens with an artificial one.

Glaucoma Glaucoma is the second most common cause of vision loss in seniors. The optic nerve usually gets damaged because of high pressure inside the eye caused by fluid. Over time, people with glaucoma lose their peripheral (side) vision. If it isn’t treated, it can lead to “tunnel” vision or result in vision loss.

Want to know more? You’ll find details on these and other eye conditions at cnib.ca. It’s a great resource for information about everything from vision issues to treatments to support services.

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Raise Funds, Have FUN!Great ideas for helping a great causein addition to the suggested $2 donation per student, there are lots of ways for your class to raise money for CniB during Shades of Fun. We’ve given you a few ideas, but if you need more suggestions, contact your CNIB coach (whose name and contact info can be found on the front of this kit), call the CNIB Helpline at 1-800-563-2642 or drop us a line at info@cnib.ca. We’re happy to support your fundraising activities in any way we can.

FUN FUNDRAISERS!#18 Col lect coins: A coin drive is a

simple, effective way to raise money. If every student brings in a toonie, you’re well on your way to a successful fundraiser.

#19 Ditch the un iform for a cause:If your school has a dress code, have students make a donation to CNIB for a uniform-free day.

#20 Give them a BIG incent ive:Motivate your students with a big reward for reaching a specific fundraising goal. Offer up a trip to a fun local destination, a special guest for the school or a silly day where the teachers dress like kids and students can dress like their favourite teacher.

#21 Hold a wacky shades contest: From giant clown sunglasses to vintage ‘50s rhinestone shades, have your students show off their funkiest glasses for a chance to win a prize. Entry into the contest can be $1 or less, and the prize could be $5 for the winning pair.

There are great classroom incentives available for raising $50 and $100, so set your fund ra i s i ng goa l s ! Stay tuned for detai ls about some fun prizes!

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We’l l be happy to support your fundrais ing activities in any way we can!

MORE FUN F UNDRAISERS!#22 Have a crazy shades fashion show:

Invite parents and the community to see your students’ crazy sunglasses and charge $1 or $2 for admission to the show. See if you can get a parent or someone in the community to donate a pair of designer sunglasses, and raffle or auction them as part of the show.

#23 Show your talent and raise funds:Sing, dance and showcase student (and teacher) skills with a school-wide talent show, karaoke contest or battle of the bands. Have performers wear shades onstage, and invite parents, friends and the community for an evening of fun. Charge a small admission fee, offer baked goods and refreshments for sale, and you’ve got a great fundraiser on your hands!

#24 Organize a used book sale:Ask parents to send in used books for children and young adults, and host a book sale that students can browse at recess and lunchtime. Or make it a bigger event – collect books throughout the year, and have one blowout sale on a Saturday in May.

#25 Bake up a class ic fundraiser:There’s nothing quite like a platter of fresh cupcakes and cookies to get people in the spirit to support a great cause. Ask for donations from the school’s best bakers, and let the kids enjoy some home-baked treats at lunchtime on a designated day.

#26 Host a school barbecue or pizza day: Another failsafe fundraiser: host a pizza lunch or a school picnic, and invite parents to join their kids.

TOP FUNDRAISING TIPS

• Nominate student leaders to organize your fundraisers.

• Advertise your fundraising events on the morning announcements, in parent newsletters and on your school website.

• Hold your fundraisers in the cafeteria at lunchtime to generate support.

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DID YOU KNOW? the funds you raise for CniB during Shades of Fun will support people who are blind or partially sighted right in your own community. whether you raise $50 or $5,000, every dollar makes a difference!

#27 Have a garage sale: Ask students to bring in unwanted items from home and set up a sale in the gym or out in the schoolyard. Invite the community or keep it students only – it’s up to you.

#28 Shhh. It ’s a s i lent auct ion: Designate a theme for each classroom, and have each one create a basket – each child can bring in one or two items that fit the theme. Some ideas: hot and spicy foods, chocolate, stuff for coffee lovers, art supplies, baby items, etc. Each basket can then be auctioned off to raise funds for CNIB during Shades of Fun!

#29 Take a walk for CNIB: Organize a walk-a-thon to raise money for CNIB during Shades of Fun. Have participants wear their shades as they walk!

#30 Dance the night away in support of vision health: Organize a dance with a great band or DJ. Offer special prizes to students who show up wearing a pair of shades. Host a contest that awards coolest shades, wackiest pair, best vintage specs, etc.

#31 Fun fair for funds: Get out the face paints, rent a jumpy castle, set up some games, rent some kid-size sumo wrestler costumes – and you’ve got the makings of a great day that can raise lots of money for CNIB. Provide tickets for each activity, sell pizza, and even incorporate other fundraisers like the silent auction and the bake sale to really boost income.

Want to know more?Check out shadesoffun.ca for more online activities. to learn more about vision health month events in your area, visit cnib.ca or call our Helpline at 1-800-563-2642.

Charitable registration number: 119219459 rr 0003

$Go for it! Think BIG!

Have your class set a fundraising goal and decide how you’ll reward yourselves if you reach it (e.g. pizza party, a lesson outside, move a test to a later date, etc.). Then fill in the blanks below and hang this motivational poster in your classroom to encourage your students!

Our Shades of Fun fundraising goal is:

When we reach our goal we will:

You can do it!