LEARNING-RELATED ISSUES

Parents always want a good education for their child. A good education, in turn, depends on optimal vision.

One in six school-age children experience learning difficulties that are attributed to vision conditions. Many of these youngsters have average or above-average intelligence, but they may be working below their capacity for learning—oftentimes, they become classified as learning-disabled.

Your B.C. Optometrist can help. They understand that a key element of learning is learning to see. For many, this is where problems begin to occur.

Be alert for symptoms that may indicate your child has a visual problem. If your child shows any of these symptoms, take them to your B.C. Optometrist for a complete exam:

• headaches or visible irritation
  
• avoidance of near-distance work
  
• covering or rubbing of the eyes
  
• tilting of the head or unusual posture
  
• using a finger to maintain place while reading
  
• losing place while reading
  
• omitting or confusing small words when reading
  
• performing below their potential

The good news is that there are several forms of success-proven treatment. Doctors of optometry often prescribe corrective lenses - and vision therapy. Studies have shown marked improvements, enabling children to rapidly catch up to their peers.

Research suggests that 80 per cent of learning is visually acquired. Could the stakes for a child’s future be greater?

That’s a major reason why the British Columbia Association of Optometrists recommends that all children receive a comprehensive eye exam by age three, and then regularly throughout school age and into adulthood. Learning-related problems are in the news in B.C. Visit your B.C. Optometrist, who can diagnose learning-related problems and provide expert referrals.

Source : www.optometrists.bc.ca
All content here is provided for information and education—it is no substitute for the advice of your B.C. Optometrist. The MT. Pleasant Optometry Centre assumes no responsibility or liability arising from any errors or omissions or from the use of any information contained herein.