What is vision therapy treatment for kids?

As a parent, you want what’s best for your child – especially when it comes to their learning and development. If your child is struggling in school or having trouble with everyday tasks like reading, focusing, or avoiding schoolwork, the problem might lie with their vision.

What is vision therapy?

Vision therapy for kids is a highly effective treatment for those facing challenges related to their visual skills. Unlike routine eye exams or glasses, vision therapy is a customized, step-by-step plan featuring targeted vision therapy exercises and activities tailored to address your child’s specific vision struggles. Think of it as physical therapy for the eyes and brain, working together to improve how your child sees and processes the world.

What conditions can vision therapy help with?

Many kids face visual issues that can interfere with their ability to see clearly or coordinate their eyes. Here are a few common issues it can address:

Amblyopia (lazy eye): Amblyopia happens when one eye doesn’t develop proper vision. Vision therapy helps train the brain to rely on both eyes equally, improving overall vision.

Strabismus (crossed eyes): This occurs when the eyes are misaligned. Vision therapy helps realign the eyes and improve coordination, making it easier for kids to focus.

Convergence insufficiency: This is when the eyes can’t work together to focus on nearby objects, often causing discomfort or double vision. By strengthening the eye muscles, vision therapy can improve coordination and reduce strain.

Visual processing disorder: These disorders affect how the brain interprets visual information. Pediatric vision therapy helps improve the way children process what they see, which can improve skills like reading and understanding directions.

Eye tracking and coordination issues: These problems make it hard for kids to follow moving objects or keep their eyes on a page when reading. Therapy helps improve eye movements, making it easier to stay on track.

How does vision therapy work?

Every child’s treatment plan is unique and tailored to their specific needs. The process often involves a mix of tools and techniques, such as prisms, filters, or computer-based programs, alongside vision therapy exercises to improve focus, coordination, and eye movement.

At-home exercises are also a key part of the process, helping to reinforce progress between sessions. This combination of in-office and at-home work ensures steady improvement over approximately 6-9 months.

Who can benefit from vision therapy?

Vision therapy could benefit your child if they have difficulty focusing, struggle with reading, or avoid schoolwork. It’s also effective for kids who frequently experience headaches, eye strain, or double vision while reading.

For children with ADD or ADHD, undiagnosed vision problems can sometimes contribute to attention difficulties. Addressing these issues can make a big difference in their ability to focus and engage in the classroom.

How vision therapy helps with learning and development

Strong visual skills are closely tied to learning, helping children process and use visual information effectively. When vision issues arise, tasks like reading and writing become difficult, leading to frustration and lack of focus.

Pediatric vision therapy can improve reading speed and comprehension, enhance hand-eye coordination for writing, and help children stay focused in the classroom.

As a result, kids experience less frustration and engage more with their schoolwork, boosting academic performance and confidence.

Is your child struggling with homework?

If you’ve noticed your child experiencing vision-related challenges, we’re here to provide expert pediatric care and support through personalized vision therapy. Contact our eye doctor in Chicago today to see how your child could benefit.