Learning Problems: Key Insights Every Parent Should Know

When a child faces challenges with reading, writings, or attention in an educational setting, the common assumption often points towards a learning disorder. However, have you considered that the underlying issue could be visual rather than cognitive? Recognising this distinction is crucial for implementing effective interventions that truly address the root cause of the difficulties.

At Eyes by Design, we frequently encounter children who, despite being intelligent, curious, and capable, do not have their visual systems adequately supporting their learning processes. These bright young minds might not need tutoring or extensive assessments; instead, they require a thorough vision evaluation to identify potential visual complications that could be obstructing their educational journey.

This leads us to explore the concept of visually related learning problems. These issues are common, yet often overlooked in educational contexts, significantly affecting a child's ability to read, concentrate, and effectively retain information.

Discover How Visual Skills Are Essential for Academic Achievement

Reading encompasses far more than simply having clear vision; it requires the eyes to move, focus, and work collaboratively without interruption. Remarkably, over 80% of a child's learning is visually absorbed, underscoring the vital importance of strong visual skills in the educational process.

To enable your child to read fluidly and learn successfully, they must possess a comprehensive array of visual skills, which include:

• Clear near vision, crucial for effective reading
• Accurate eye movements (smoothly tracking across text)
• Flexible focusing (shifting focus from a board to a book)
• Robust visual memory and recognition abilities
• Effective eye teaming (both eyes collaborating in harmony)

When any of these vital skills are underdeveloped, the learning experience can become significantly more difficult than necessary, even if the child's eyesight appears “normal” during routine vision screenings.

Recognise the Early Symptoms of Visually Related Learning Problems

Often, these visual difficulties are mistakenly interpreted as signs of inattention, dyslexia, or a lack of motivation. However, if your child displays any of the following symptoms, it may signal a visual problem instead:

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

These indicators can sometimes be subtle and may often go unnoticed without a comprehensive visual assessment to identify any underlying issues that require attention.

Understand the Distinctions Between Visually Related Learning Problems and Learning Disabilities

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

While dyslexia pertains to neurological challenges concerning language processing, visually related learning problems arise from inadequate visual function and are often highly treatable.

By addressing the visual concerns, you can significantly alleviate frustration, restore self-confidence, and facilitate smoother academic progress without resorting to unnecessary tests or medications that may not address the core issue.

Get to Know the 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 across the Central Coast in overcoming visual barriers to learning and achieving success in their academic endeavours.

Dr Nick excels in identifying visual conditions that standard eye tests frequently overlook. His approach is compassionate and supportive, focused on providing both parents and children with a clear understanding of their visual health, coupled with effective solutions tailored to their unique needs.

What to Anticipate from Treatment for Visual Learning Issues

At Eyes by Design, we initiate our process with a detailed behavioural vision assessment specifically designed for your child. These evaluations extend well beyond a basic school screening or a simple eye chart check.

We thoroughly investigate:

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

Our Tailored Support Includes:

• Custom glasses designed specifically for reading or particular 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 aim is not solely to correct vision; we aspire to restore confidence in learning while removing the visual challenges that may have previously obstructed your child's academic potential.

Take Action Now Before Visual Symptoms Worsen

Many children with visually related learning challenges may not be aware that their vision differs from their peers, as this is the only way they have ever perceived the world. Therefore, early detection is essential for implementing effective interventions.

If your child has been struggling academically or showing signs of discomfort while reading, a behavioural eye assessment could be the key to unlocking their full potential and significantly enhancing their learning experience.

Frequently Asked Questions About Visually Related Learning Problems

What sets a vision screening apart from a behavioural vision assessment?

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

Can visually related learning problems be mistakenly diagnosed as dyslexia?

Absolutely. Many symptoms overlap. However, the fundamental causes differ — visual issues are often correctable, while dyslexia usually requires long-term 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 is experiencing difficulties with foundational reading skills or engagement in school activities.

Will my child require glasses?

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

Is treatment covered by Medicare or private health insurance?

The initial consultation typically falls under Medicare coverage. Additional services such as vision therapy may be claimable under certain extras health insurance policies.