The vital link between vision and learning

Vision and academic achievement go hand in hand … or rather, eye to eye.

The Australiasian College of Behavioural Optometrists (ACBO) reveals that vision remains the most dominant system for getting information.

Roughly 80% of what a child learns in school is information that is presented visually.

Vision is a mental process –  it involves working out where objects are in space, their form, distance and colour, the control of speed and direction of movement

So good vision is essential for students of all ages to reach their full academic potential.

If my child passes the school vision screening they’re fine, right?

Parents and educators often incorrectly assume that if a child passes a school vision screening, then there is no vision problem.

School vision screenings generally only test for visual acuity, or the clarity of vision. In reality, the vision skills needed for successful reading and learning are much more complex.

This means that a child who has 20/20 eyesight can still have a vision problem.

An expert can help make sure

Optometrists trained in Behavioural Optometry will be able to tell you if your child has problems with:

• Focusing ability
• Eye coordination
• Depth perception
• Eye muscle action
• Side vision
• Understanding what your child sees

We are able to identify and remedy the vision problems that are subtle yet serious, before they impact on your child’s ability to learn.

Our best learning takes place when we use both of our eyes together, efficiently.  Learning is easier when we combine visual information with the information we receive through our other senses such as hearing, touching and moving.  So if our eyes aren’t working as a team, for example, the impact on processing information, and in turn, learning can be dramatic.

To do all of the things required at school – solve maths problems, play ball sports, read and understand information – your child needs clear sight … and much more.

Get the full ACBO article about the connection between vision and learning.

If you are concerned about your child’s vision and would like to book an appointment with us, please email Jenny at jenny@gp-optom.co.nz