Tip:
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When setting a table,
keep color contrast in mind.
If you have white plates they may
almost disappear on a white tablecloth
but show up well against
a plain dark tablecloth.
Purchasing a vinyl tablecloth
also makes it easy to wipe clean.
If the food being served is dark,
use light colored dishes.
If food is light, use dark coloured dishes.
Washable, non-slip placemats
in different colours to contrast
with different plates
are another option.
A tip for young children who
are blind or partially sighted is
to place mealtime items on
a contrasting cafeteria-style tray
to keep everything contained
and in reach,
but in the same configuration
or layout as everyone else.
It also helps to contain spills.
To avoid spills at the table,
at home or away,
it is important to know how to
locate items at your place setting.
Start at the edge of the table
and with your fingers curled
and arms flexed,
move gently toward the centre
of the table until you find your plate.
From there with your
fingers low to the table,
extend arms and fingers gradually
to the right and left to find
silverware, teacup, glass, salad bowl,
bread and butter plate, etc.
Keep your hands on the surface
of the table and move slowly.
If you cannot find the item you need,
ask for it to be passed to you.
When reaching for a glass
during mealtime,
keep your hands in
contact with the table.
If you reach high for your glass,
you may tip it over.
Before placing the glass
back down onto the table,
check that the area is clear
with your free hand.
This will prevent spills resulting
from placing the glass down on
another utensil or other object.
You can identify the cutting edge
of an unfamiliar knife by discretely running
the blade of the knife against
the side of the plate.
You will feel or hear the
serrated edge of the blade
rubbing against the plate