In this one minute VisionHelp video, educational specialist Wendy Rosen, author of the book The Hidden Link Between Vision and Learning, outlines when a child struggles in reading and learning it should be the top priority to have a comprehensive optometric vision evaluation. It is especially critical to understand that, while 20/20 eyesight is important, having clear distance eyesight alone does not rule out serious vision problems that affect reading, attention and learning.
In fact, most of the visual problems that affect learning can be missed if the doctor’s testing does not go beyond eye sight, refraction and ocular health testing. To provide helpful tools for Doctors, the American Optometric Association InfantSee and Children’s Vision Committee in conjunction with Optometry Cares – The AOA Foundation, have created a comprehensive Pediatric Vision Evaluation “Tool Kit”. This was outlined by Dr. Press in his most recent VisionHelp Blog post, entitled: New AOA Resource Kit.
Within this collection of excellent resources are Chairside Guides that provide detailed descriptions of diagnostic testing for a comprehensive vision exam, including targeting and identifying children’s vision and learning problems. Here is an example of the 6-12 year old Chairside Guide.
For parents who have a child who struggles in reading, learning and/or attentional problems, be sure to bring your concerns to your optometrist. For Doctors, it is especially important to apply these optometric tests nicely outlined by the American Optometric Association. AOA members click here to get access to the entire AOA Resource Kit.
Because, as stated by Wendy Rosen, “Having this knowledge could potentially impact the entire course of a child’s life!”
Dan L. Fortenbacher, O.D., FCOVD