Vision is more than eyesight – it is how your child interprets, understands and acts upon the information coming in through their eyes. Many children have normal 20/20 eyesight yet struggle in the classroom. This can be due to problems with:
● Eye movements
● Eye teaming
● Eye-hand coordination
● Visual form perception
● Long-sightedness
Sally Adams B Optom Cert OcPharm PG Dip Sci
Visual skills normally improve over time as a child develops. If there are areas where your child is not progressing or school performance is declining, we recommend a full vision assessment with Sally Adams. Sally has completed three specialized Behavioural Optometrist Extension courses. Behavioural Optometry is described as special interest in vision beyond the eyeball. An assessment with Sally can identify vision problems which can be improved with glasses and Vision Therapy.
What you can do to help your child develop good vision habits:
● Check your child keeps both eyes the same distance to the page or screen, at a distance at least a forearms distance from their chin for reading, or arms distance for computer screens.
● Reading or writing is best on a 20 degree slope rather than flat on the desk.
● Encourage your child to look up and refocus in the distance after every page they read, and at regular intervals when using a screen.
● Sit in a balanced upright position, both feet on the floor; this reduces distraction from fatigue and discomfort while doing homework, reading, drawing, using a computer or tablet.
● All students of all ages and abilities work better in short bursts of 10 minutes or less, especially those with vision problems. Make sure your child gets up and moves around, ideally goes outside to play after each 20 - 30 minutes of reading, writing or computer / screen time.
● Encourage your child in sports and outdoor activities. This improves eye-hand co-ordination, spatial and other visual skills as well as improving concentration.
If you have any questions or would like further information please contact us.