As parents, we often notice when our children struggle with reading. For many, this can signal a need for an eye exam. But what happens if the results show no issues with eyesight? Surprisingly, the problem may still lie within the visual system—just not in the way a standard eye exam can detect.
This is where Dr. Rick Graebe FCOVD, a behavioral optometrist located in Versailles, Kentucky, steps in. Dr. Graebe’s approach goes beyond traditional exams to encompass the full range of visual abilities. Through Vision Therapy, a specialized form of therapy that connects the eyes, brain, and body, Dr. Graebe addresses visual challenges that can affect both learning and everyday activities.
Why Vision Matters Beyond 20/20
Most of us equate good vision with having 20/20 eyesight, but there’s more to it than that—especially for young learners. Children need a range of visual skills to succeed in school, from focusing on the blackboard to reading words on a page. Dr. Graebe explains it well: “Nerves that fire together, wire together,” meaning that the visual system must work in harmony with the brain to perform well. When these connections are weak, children may exhibit signs of vision problems that go undetected in a basic eye exam.
Common Signs Your Child Might Have a Vision Problem
Vision issues often become noticeable when children reach elementary school and are expected to read regularly. During these early years, they’re moving from a world of hands-on learning to one that requires sustained visual focus. A few key signs that could indicate a visual issue include:
- Avoiding Reading: Does your child shy away from reading or ask to be read to instead? This can be a red flag.
- Struggles with Eye-Hand Coordination: Avoidance of sports or activities that require catching or throwing could indicate poor eye-hand coordination.
- Fidgeting and Poor Posture: Inability to sit still or slouching at a desk may indicate visual strain.
These symptoms might suggest that your child’s eyes aren’t working together as a team. Dr. Graebe likens it to learning to play the piano. “Just because your fingers can press keys doesn’t mean they know where to go to make the right notes.” In the same way, eyes need to learn how to work together to focus, track, and interpret what they see accurately.
How Vision Therapy Can Help
Dr. Graebe has been providing Vision Therapy since 1990, helping an average of 300 children each year to improve their visual abilities. Vision Therapy is much like physical therapy for the eyes and brain. It works to correct and strengthen the connections that standard eye exams don’t address.
Consider the case of a child from the Lexington area, who struggled with reading and often complained of headaches. After a thorough assessment, Dr. Graebe identified a visual tracking problem that was making reading difficult. Through a customized Vision Therapy program, the child was able to improve his eye coordination and focus, which, in turn, boosted his confidence in the classroom.
Schedule Your Child’s Vision Evaluation Today
If you’ve noticed your child exhibiting any of these signs, it may be time for a comprehensive vision assessment. Dr. Rick Graebe FCOVD and his team at the Neuro-Visual Performance Institute have the experience and resources to help. With locations in Versailles, serving the greater Lexington area, and in Somerset, we’re one of the few pediatric specialty practices in Central and Southern Kentucky dedicated to improving children’s visual skills and overall quality of life.
To schedule an appointment at our Versailles or Somerset office, call us today at 859-879-0089.
Credit:
This blog is based on information from Dr. Rick Graebe as compiled and written by John Lynch.