Children who avoid reading are often unfairly labeled as lazy or unintelligent. However, as Dr. Rick Graebe, a behavioral optometrist based in Versailles, Kentucky, explains, these issues often stem from an underlying visual problem. Dr. Graebe’s expertise in pediatric vision therapy has helped countless children overcome reading difficulties caused by undiagnosed visual issues.
Vision vs. Eyesight: The Hidden Cause of Reading Problems
A standard eye exam typically measures visual acuity, determining how well a child can identify letters on an eye chart. But even if a child passes this test, they may still struggle with reading. That’s because vision is about more than just seeing clearly—it involves the ability to track, focus, and interpret visual information.
Children need to constantly shift their focus from the board to their desks during classroom activities. This requires the eyes to work in harmony. A child may be able to see the board perfectly, but if their visual system isn’t functioning properly, they will struggle with reading tasks.
As Dr. Graebe explains, “It’s not just their eyesight, but their vision.” Poor visual perception can severely hinder a child’s ability to read, leading to frustration and disengagement in school.
How Vision Therapy Works
Vision therapy focuses on improving the visual skills needed for reading and learning. Just like physical therapy strengthens muscles, vision therapy trains the brain and eyes to work together more effectively. The process is gradual, starting with simple tasks to build foundational skills before advancing to more complex exercises.
Dr. Graebe uses specialized tests, including goggles that track eye movements, to assess how well a child’s visual system functions while reading. This helps identify how often they lose their place or struggle with focus. The therapy is customized based on the child’s specific needs and progresses as they gain proficiency.
A strong visual system allows children to create mental images while reading, much like watching a movie. Without this ability, reading becomes laborious and unengaging. Through vision therapy, children regain confidence in their reading skills, transforming their attitude from “I can’t” to “Let me try.”
Success in the Classroom and Beyond
Vision therapy is designed to make reading automatic for children, allowing them to focus on comprehension rather than struggling through the text. Dr. Graebe often compares poor visual skills to playing a piano with no sound—you can’t tell if you’re making mistakes. Vision therapy, in this sense, is like turning on the sound, enabling children to see their progress clearly.
Parents often notice a change in their child’s attitude after completing vision therapy. Children move up in their reading groups, and their newfound confidence helps them excel in other areas as well. “If you don’t have confidence, you won’t get to competence,” says Dr. Graebe.
Schedule an Eye Exam in Versailles or Somerset Today
If your child is struggling with reading, it may not be a learning issue but a vision problem. At Neuro-Visual Performance Institute, Dr. Rick Graebe, FCOVD, provides comprehensive testing and personalized vision therapy programs that can help your child overcome visual challenges. With locations in Versailles, serving the greater Lexington area, and Somerset, we are one of the only pediatric specialty practices in Central and Southern Kentucky.
To schedule an appointment, 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.