The mother in this story has two visually impaired children and finds ways to allow them to do their chores. In helping Mother, they also gain independence. This mother empowers her children! A cane is used by a blind or visually impaired child for protection and for independence. If a cane is not available, a long stick can be used as a substitute. The stick can be carved from a branch and should measure in length from a child's shoulder to the ground. The cane or stick is used to find an object before a child contacts it so the child does not fall. If a child attends a school for the blind, the stick may then be replaced with a cane. The children in this story are a very important part of their family. It is because of their hard work that the mother accomplishes all of her tasks!