Imagine trying to read while the words on the page keep shifting or catching a ball when it seems like there are two. For children with undiagnosed vision problems, this isn’t just frustrating—it’s their everyday.
Unfortunately, school vision screenings only check for basic refractive errors, and children rarely report vision problems because they often don’t realize there’s a problem. That’s where we come in.
At North Park Vision Center, PC, we look beyond 20/20. Our vision therapy programs focus on how the eyes work together—tracking, focusing, and processing information—to help children succeed in school and daily life.
10 Signs Your Child Might Need Vision Therapy
Your child’s vision plays a massive role in their development; however, their visual milestones can be a little harder to track when you don’t know what to look for. Here are the top signs that may indicate your child is dealing with a visual problem that goes beyond needing glasses:
- Frequent headaches or eye rubbing, especially during or after reading.
- Skipping lines while reading or losing their place may signal tracking difficulties.
- Avoiding reading or close-up tasks could mean visual fatigue or discomfort.
- Short attention span during visual tasks—a common sign of visual processing struggles.
- Tilting their head or covering one eye may indicate trying to correct double vision or poor eye alignment.
- Poor hand-eye coordination, such as struggling with sports or catching objects.
- Reversing letters or numbers—particularly past the age where this is typical.
- Slow reading or poor comprehension may stem from inefficient visual skills.
- Trouble copying from the board can point to visual memory or focus issues.
- Clumsiness or frequent bumping into things: Poor depth perception may be to blame.
How Vision Problems Affect Children’s Learning
The American Optometric Association says that about 1 in 4 school-aged children have vision problems that affect learning. These issues often go unnoticed during basic vision screenings, especially since many parents assume their child is doing fine and don’t realize the importance of a comprehensive eye exam.
Vision therapy can help address these overlooked challenges by improving how the eyes move, focus, and process visual information.
What Is Vision Therapy?
Vision therapy is a customized, evidence-based program that strengthens the visual system. It’s like physical therapy for your child’s eyes and brain.
At North Park Vision Center, PC, therapy plans are tailored to each child and may include:
- Guided eye exercises to improve tracking and focus
- Activities to boost visual memory and processing
- Specialized lenses, prisms, or tools for alignment support
- Progress tracking and home-based activities between visits
Over time, these programs can lead to improved reading fluency, better focus, and increased confidence, both in and outside the classroom.
Take the First Step: Book an Eye Exam!
If your child shows any of the signs above, a comprehensive eye exam is the next step. Our team at North Park Vision Center, PC in Westminster is here to assess your child’s visual function and develop a plan that bolsters their success—in school, on the field, and at home.
Book your appointment to learn more about vision therapy and how we can help your child thrive.