When children struggle with reading, many parents and educators may not realize that the root cause could be their vision. Although reading may seem like a simple process, it involves a complex set of visual skills that are often overlooked. As Dr. Rick Graebe, a developmental optometrist in Versailles, Kentucky, explains, the eyes must work together in very specific ways to support successful reading.
Why Reading is So Visually Demanding
Our eyes are naturally designed to see the world in three dimensions at a distance. However, in today’s classrooms, children are required to spend up to 75% of their time focusing on two-dimensional objects—books, screens, and other close-up materials. For many students, this sudden shift in visual demand can lead to difficulties in reading and learning.
Reading requires the eyes to move smoothly across a line of text, focus on specific words, and send signals to the brain that convert these words into meaningful information. But if any part of this system breaks down, reading can become a frustrating task. According to Dr. Graebe, “Many children who struggle with reading have underlying vision issues, such as trouble with eye convergence or tracking.”
The Effects of Uncorrected Vision Issues
One of the most common problems related to reading difficulties is convergence insufficiency. This occurs when the eyes have trouble turning inwards to focus on a word. As a result, the brain has to work overtime to process the information, leading to symptoms like headaches, eye strain, or an inability to stay focused on a page. Over time, this can contribute to nearsightedness due to the prolonged stress on the eyes from close-up work.
Dr. Graebe suggests a simple method to reduce eye strain—the “10, 10, 10” rule. For every 10 minutes spent reading or using a computer, take a 10-second break to look at something at least 10 feet away. This helps relax the eyes and prevent strain.
In addition to convergence issues, some students struggle with tracking problems, where the eyes fail to move smoothly across the line of text. These students may lose their place frequently or find it difficult to move to the next line when reading. Fortunately, with proper testing, these issues can be identified and addressed through specialized treatments.
How Vision Therapy Can Help
At the Neuro-Visual Performance Institute in Versailles, Dr. Graebe offers solutions tailored to each child’s specific needs. One option is Vision Therapy, a program designed to train the eyes and brain to work together more efficiently. Through a series of sequential exercises, children can learn to overcome convergence insufficiency, improve tracking, and master the visual skills required for smooth, effortless reading.
For some students, stress lenses may be recommended. These specialized lenses reduce the amount of effort required for the eyes to focus on close-up text. Dr. Graebe notes that the effects of these lenses can be immediate and dramatic: “Sometimes the difference is like night and day. Parents are amazed when they see their child’s reading improve so quickly.”
One of Dr. Graebe’s young patients from Danville, Kentucky, was having significant difficulties in school due to poor reading performance. After undergoing Vision Therapy and wearing stress lenses, the child’s reading skills improved dramatically, leading to greater confidence and success in the classroom.
Schedule a Pediatric Eye Exam Near Lexington Today
Reading difficulties often stem from hidden vision problems, but with the right care, children can overcome these challenges. At Neuro-Visual Performance Institute, we specialize in identifying and treating these issues, helping students reach their full potential in school and beyond.
If your child is struggling with reading or other learning activities, schedule an eye evaluation today. Dr. Rick Graebe and his team are ready to help your child develop the visual skills necessary for academic success. Call us at 859-879-0089 to schedule an appointment at our Versailles or Somerset locations.
Credit:
This blog is based on information from Dr. Rick Graebe as compiled and written by John Lynch.