As homeschooling parents, it’s common to look for resources that enhance the learning experience. For Christy Hart of Frankfort, her search for solutions took a unique turn when her children, Ashby (13) and Sawyer (8), began struggling with reading and math. Concerned, Christy turned to her homeschooling network for advice and found a surprising answer: Vision Therapy with Dr. Rick Graebe FCOVD, a behavioral optometrist based in Versailles, Kentucky.
Uncovering the Root Cause: More Than 20-20 Vision
While both Ashby and Sawyer had passed traditional eye exams, with Ashby even boasting 20-20 vision, Christy couldn’t shake the feeling that something was off. How could their learning difficulties be related to vision? It wasn’t until her children underwent an extensive eye exam with Dr. Graebe that the answer became clear. This exam was far more thorough than any they had experienced before. In fact, during the evaluation, it was discovered that Sawyer’s eyes were fatiguing quickly, and one of them would stray as he became tired.
This discovery prompted Christy to commit both children to a 30-week Vision Therapy program that included exercises they could do at home.
The Fun and Results of Vision Therapy
The Vision Therapy program wasn’t like a typical academic task. Ashby and Sawyer completed 20 minutes of fun, engaging activities each day—except on Sundays. They used Legos, painted, and even patched one eye while reading books. This consistent practice led to noticeable improvements in their learning abilities.
After just 23 weeks, Ashby’s progress was so significant that she was able to conclude the program early. Sawyer followed close behind, finishing the program two weeks later. The results were beyond Christy’s expectations.
Sawyer, who had struggled to read and retain information in second grade, was now reading at a fifth-grade level, devouring chapter books on his own. Even in math, he made incredible strides, completing two years’ worth of math in just one school year. Ashby also flourished, becoming a passionate reader who now carries books with her everywhere in a purse-style backpack.
The Lasting Impact of Vision Therapy
For Christy, the turnaround has been nothing short of miraculous. “This is what we had been praying for,” she said. “This will help our children for the rest of their lives, so we had to give them this opportunity.”
Vision Therapy doesn’t just help children improve their academic skills—it addresses the underlying issues affecting their learning abilities. For families in Central Kentucky and Southern Kentucky, this therapy offers a solution that goes beyond conventional eye exams, ensuring that children have the visual tools they need for success.
Schedule a Pediatric Eye Exam Near Lexington Today
If your child is struggling with reading, math, or other learning difficulties, Vision Therapy could be the solution you’ve been searching for. With locations in Versailles, serving the greater Lexington area, and Somerset, the Neuro-Visual Performance Institute offers comprehensive eye exams and therapy programs tailored to each child’s unique needs.
Call us today at 859-879-0089 to schedule an appointment and discover how Vision Therapy can transform your child’s learning experience.
Credit:
This blog is based on information from Dr. Rick Graebe as compiled and written by John Lynch.