Beyond the Page: Spotting Hidden Vision Issues in the Classroom

Be mindful that many issues can slip through the gaps, not just literacy struggles. A child who appears to be physically straining while reading, leans close into their work, or repeatedly loses their place on a page, may have additional visual issues that need to be investigated. Optometrist checks may only focus (see what I did there) on vision at a couple of metres away. An orthoptist checkup will rule out any issues with ‘near-field’ work (the kind of work kids do at their own desks). Just be wary if “vision therapy (behavioural optometry” is recommended. There are simple eye exercises a child can be given to practise at home under the guidance of an orthoptist. There is no evidence that time consuming vision therapy makes a difference.

More reference information can be found HERE