August is Vision and Learning Month

Happy Vision and Learning Month!

The purpose of Vision and Learning Month is to educate parents and teachers about the link between vision and learning.  Undiagnosed vision problems can interfere with a child’s ability to learn and can often be misdiagnosed as ADD/ADHD.

Here are some facts about vision and learning

  • According to the Vision Council of America- “ It is estimated that 80% of children with a learning disability have an undiagnosed vision problem.”
  • The American Public Health Association stated that “25% of students in grades K-6 have visual problems that are serious enough to impede learning.”

Does your child…

  • Avoid reading or near tasks as much as possible?
  • Have difficulty completing homework?
  • Complain that their eyes fatigue easily or “hurt” after reading?
  • Lose place when reading?
  • Have double vision?
  • Report headaches?

These behaviors could be a result from poor eye coordination problems. This can make learning stressful and difficult for your child.

Vision is more than just seeing 20/20.

  • If your child passes a vision screening at school, it does not necessarily mean they do not have a vision problem. That only tests for acuity, meaning seeing a certain sized letter from 20 feet away.
  • A child could still have trouble tracking, focusing, coordination and depth perception.

If you feel like your child might have a vision problem, schedule a comprehensive eye exam with Optometric Physicians of Middle Tennessee. Vision problems are treatable with optometric vision therapy, which we offer through our Nashville office.