In many ways, Dr. Rick Graebe FCOVD, an optometrist in Versailles, Kentucky, is on a mission to empower educators and improve student outcomes. For years, he has helped children with visual challenges achieve greater success in school, but he knows that not enough people are aware of the role vision plays in learning. Now, Dr. Graebe is dedicated to spreading the word about Vision Therapy and its transformative impact on struggling students.
The Role of Vision Therapy in Student Success
Vision Therapy is a specialized program that acts like physical therapy for the eyes, brain, and body. It addresses various visual issues such as lazy eye, crossed eyes, double vision, and reading and learning disabilities. These problems often go unnoticed and can significantly hinder a child’s ability to succeed in the classroom.
Dr. Graebe has seen firsthand how Vision Therapy can change lives. He shares, “I’ve had so many parents tell me, ‘I wish I had known about this sooner,’ or ‘I wish I had this when I was a child.’ Vision Therapy has been a well-kept secret for many.” However, he is on a mission to change that.
Workshops for Educators: Helping Teachers Spot Visual Challenges
Dr. Graebe is committed to making Vision Therapy more accessible, especially through his free workshops for educators. Teachers and occupational therapists can attend these workshops, where they will receive continuing education credits while learning how to identify students who may benefit from Vision Therapy.
These workshops focus on practical techniques that teachers can use in the classroom to support students with visual difficulties. “I work with bright kids who can’t demonstrate their intelligence because of issues with their visual systems,” Dr. Graebe explains. “Since 75% of classroom instruction depends on the visual system, when something isn’t working right, it can really impact learning.”
Dr. Graebe’s workshops equip educators with tools to identify students who might be struggling with visual problems. These signs include students who can answer questions correctly in class but underperform on tests, children who complain of headaches, or those who constantly look away from their work to rest their eyes.
Educating Without Selling
One of the things Dr. Graebe emphasizes in his workshops is that the purpose is purely educational. “I’m not here to make a sales pitch,” he says. “I want teachers and parents to understand that Vision Therapy is an option, and there is hope for these kids.”
By understanding how visual skills develop and the impact improper development can have, educators can play a critical role in helping students overcome their challenges. Dr. Graebe’s ultimate goal is to open doors for children who are struggling with hidden visual issues, giving them the opportunity to reach their full potential.
Schedule a Free Workshop or Consultation Today
If you’re an educator or a parent concerned about a child’s learning difficulties, Dr. Rick Graebe FCOVD is here to help. Contact his office today to learn more about his free workshops or to schedule a consultation. Dr. Graebe’s offices are located in Versailles, serving the greater Lexington area, and Somerset, making him one of the only pediatric specialists in Central and Southern Kentucky.
Call 859-879-0089 to schedule an appointment or to learn more about upcoming workshops.
Credit:
This blog is based on information from Dr. Rick Graebe as compiled and written by John Lynch.