Learning Problems: Key Insights Every Parent Should Know

When a child faces challenges with reading, written expression, or attention in an educational environment, the immediate conclusion often leans towards a learning disorder. However, what if the underlying issue is not cognitive but rather visual? Grasping this crucial distinction can significantly influence the effectiveness of intervention strategies.

At Eyes by Design, we regularly encounter children who are not only intelligent but also curious and capable. Yet, their visual systems fail to adequately support their learning processes. These bright young learners may not require tutoring or extensive evaluations; instead, they need a thorough vision evaluation to identify potential visual challenges that impede their educational experience.

This leads us to the concept of visually related learning difficulties. These issues are common but often overlooked in academic settings, significantly affecting a child's ability to read, focus, and retain information effectively.

Discover the Essential Role of Visual Skills in Academic Achievement

Reading involves much more than simply having clear vision; it requires the eyes to move, focus, and collaborate seamlessly. Remarkably, over 80% of what a child learns is processed visually, underscoring the vital importance of strong visual skills in the learning journey.

For your child to engage in reading fluently and learn effectively, they must possess a comprehensive array of visual skills, which include:

• Clear near vision, which is crucial for reading
• Accurate eye movements that enable smooth tracking across text
• Good focusing flexibility, facilitating shifts of attention between a board and a book
• Robust visual memory and recognition skills
• Efficient eye teaming, ensuring both eyes operate in harmony

When any of these visual skills are underdeveloped, learning can become far more challenging than necessary, even when the child's eyesight appears “normal” during a standard vision screening.

Recognise the Early Signs of Visually Related Learning Challenges

Often, these visual difficulties are misinterpreted as signs of inattention, dyslexia, or a lack of motivation. However, if your child displays any of the following symptoms, it may suggest an underlying visual issue:

• Blurred or double vision, particularly after prolonged reading
• Frequent blinking, squinting, or rubbing their eyes
• Short attention span during reading or while completing homework
• Avoidance of close work or rapid fatigue
• Using a finger to track text or often losing their place
• Reversing letters or having trouble copying from the board
• Tilting their head, covering one eye, or getting excessively close to the page
• Difficulty recalling what they have just read
• Poor hand-eye coordination or clumsiness, especially in sports and crafts

These indicators can be subtle and may often go unnoticed without a comprehensive visual assessment to uncover any hidden issues.

Differentiate Visually Related Learning Problems from Learning Disabilities

It is essential to recognise that visually related learning problems differ from learning disabilities. A child may be incorrectly diagnosed with conditions such as dyslexia or attention-deficit disorder when the actual issue is an undetected visual complication.

While dyslexia involves neurological challenges linked to language processing, visually related learning problems arise from inadequate visual function and are often very treatable.

By addressing the visual issue directly, you can greatly reduce frustration, restore self-esteem, and facilitate smoother academic progress without resorting to unnecessary testing or medication.

Meet the Leading Expert in Children's Vision on the Central Coast

Dr Nicholas Altuneg, affectionately known as Dr Nick, brings over 30 years of experience as a Behavioural Optometrist. He has assisted countless children throughout the Central Coast, empowering them to overcome visual barriers to learning and achieve success in their academic journeys.

Dr Nick excels at identifying visual conditions that standard eye tests frequently overlook. His approach is both warm and supportive, dedicated to providing parents and children with a clear understanding of their visual health, alongside effective solutions tailored to their specific needs.

What to Anticipate from Treatment for Visual Learning Challenges

At Eyes by Design, we initiate our process with an extensive behavioural vision assessment tailored specifically for your child. These evaluations extend far beyond a simple school screening or basic eye chart examination.

We meticulously assess:

• Eye teaming and tracking capabilities
• Focusing abilities
• Visual memory and perceptual skills
• Functionality of binocular vision
• Coordination between eyes and hands

Our Tailored Support Offers:

• Custom glasses designed explicitly for reading or specific visual tasks
• Vision therapy aimed at enhancing eye coordination and visual processing
• Collaboration with your child’s teacher or learning support team for ongoing assistance

Our goal is not merely to correct vision; we strive to restore confidence in learning and eliminate the visual challenges that may have previously obstructed your child's academic potential.

Take Action Before Visual Symptoms Escalate

Many children experiencing visually related learning challenges may not be aware that their vision differs from others, as this is the only way they have ever perceived the world. Therefore, early detection is paramount for effective intervention.

If your child has faced academic struggles or displayed signs of discomfort while reading, a behavioural eye assessment could be the pivotal step to unlocking their full potential and enhancing their overall learning experience.

Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Visually Related Learning Problems

What distinguishes a vision screening from a behavioural vision assessment?

Standard screenings primarily measure clarity (20/20 vision). In contrast, behavioural assessments evaluate how the eyes function cooperatively, process information, and track movement — all essential skills required for effective learning.

Can visually related learning problems be misdiagnosed as dyslexia?

Absolutely. Many symptoms are similar. However, the underlying causes differ: visual issues are often correctable, while dyslexia generally requires ongoing management strategies.

At what age should I consider having my child assessed for visual learning issues?

Testing can commence as early as age 5 or 6, particularly if your child faces difficulties with foundational reading skills or participation in school activities.

Will my child require glasses?

Not necessarily. Some children achieve success with glasses, while others may improve through vision therapy or specific exercises aimed at enhancing their visual skills.

Is treatment covered by Medicare or private health insurance?

The initial consultation is typically covered by Medicare. Additional services such as vision therapy may be claimable under particular extras health insurance policies.