Is it a Vision Problem?
Vision is our farthest-reaching sense. It tells us 75% of what we know about the world around us. It affects movement, balance, and reading and writing ability. But it is a frequently overlooked contributor to academic problems. Undiagnosed eye movement problems can mimic conditions like ADHD and dyslexia. Undiagnosed vision problems are also not identified in school screenings—making a complete vision exam a must for every child.
There are signs that a child may be having vision problems.
- A child having difficulty with reading and writing even though they are receiving tutoring to improve these subjects.
- Poor handwriting and letter reversals can be a sign of binocular vision problems.
- Frequent headaches and eye rubbing or tearing while reading or doing near vision tasks.
- A child that is doing well in most subjects but struggles and dislikes reading tasks.
- A child that fidgets, turns their head or closes one eye during reading. They may also hold the pages close to their face or particularly far away while reading.
- Motion sensitivity or disliking movement (like rollercoasters), difficulty learning to ride a bike.
- Difficulty catching a ball.
- Child diagnosed with ADHD that does not respond to medication.
But my child never said anything
It is very common for a child to have no visual complaints. This is the only way they have seen the world, so they are unaware that there is a problem. They do not realize that seeing the words “get blurry and clear” or seeing the words “moving” on the page is not how we are all seeing. These are common symptoms of near vision focusing problems.
All eye exams are not created equal
In order to identify and properly diagnose an eye movement problem, the child will need a binocular vision exam. In this exam, the eye doctor will perform assessments like the near point of convergence and a measured cover test. Parents may have to ask if the office performs this service.
A complete eye exam will also include a cycloplegic dilation and refraction. This procedure will allow the doctor to get the most accurate prescription possible and thoroughly examine the health of the back of the eye. It is a necessary part of the complete eye exam.
When should my child get their eyes checked?
Most eye doctors agree that the first eye exam should be between 6 months and one year. The Infantsee Program provides this exam at no charge with providers listed on the linked website. The next exam is at 3 years old, then annually from 6-18 years old as vision changes as the child grows.
Get to the Eye Doctor
The visual system is very important in development and academic success. Every child should get a complete binocular vision exam to make sure they are reaching their full potential.
ARE YOU A SCHOOL OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST?
School Occupational Therapy practitioners can screen and remediate many different undiagnosed vision issues. It’s important to receive training so you feel competent.
Sign up for Vision 101 for School Occupational Therapy Practitioners, an AOTA-approved online training for school occupational therapy assistants and therapists.
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