We all understand how valuable eyes are in learning. However, what happens when the eyes and the brain do not cooperate as they should? Neurodivergent kids might be experiencing something called a Visual Processing Disorder. This blog post will provide useful information about this condition and offer a visual processing disorder test to help you identify if your kid might have it.
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Understanding Visual Processing Disorder
Visual Processing Disorder, simply put, refers to a hindrance in the brain’s ability to process visual information despite having clear eyesight. In other words, the kids can see perfectly, but their brains struggle to make sense of what they see.
For instance, they might have difficulty distinguishing shapes or telling the difference between similarly looking letters. Reading maps or solving puzzles may pose a challenge for them and they may struggle with spatial relations or visual memory, further impacting their learning abilities.
Different Types Of Visual Processing Issues
Here’s a breakdown of different types of visual processing issues neurodivergent kids may encounter:
- Visual Discrimination Issues: Difficulty in seeing the difference between two similar shapes, letters, or objects.
- Visual Figure-Ground Discrimination Issues: Trouble finding a specific piece of visual information from a busy background.
- Visual Sequencing Issues: Trouble with seeing and identifying the order of symbols, words, or images.
- Visual-Motor Processing Issues: Struggle with the coordination between visual perception and physical movement.
Recognizing the Symptoms of Visual Processing Disorder
There are various signs that might indicate a child has Visual Processing Disorder. These include difficulty with math, recognizing faces, and following instructions. Moreover, kids may also struggle with hand-eye coordination tasks like catching a ball or buttoning a shirt.
- They may seem clumsy, often bumping into objects.
- Reading may be slow and difficult, and they may reverse or misread letters, numbers, and words.
- Difficulty copying from a book or the board is another common sign of Visual Processing Disorder.
- They may often lose their place while reading or skip words or lines.
Seeking Professional Help
Seek early intervention if you recognize these symptoms in your child. It’s important when it comes to managing Visual Processing Disorder efficiently. A full eye exam is typically the first step. However, that alone isn’t enough.
Likewise, a visual processing disorder test may be administered by a team of professionals, including psychologists and special education experts, to comprehensively understand your child’s ability to process visual information.
Read more: How Do Visual Schedules Promote Child Independence?
Data And Research On Visual Processing Disorders
Subsequently, we know that Visual Processing Disorders affect at least 15% of the population, as per reports from the National Center for Learning Disabilities. It is also common among kids with ADHD, dyslexia, and other learning differences.
With early detection, kids can improve their visual skills through therapy and targeted exercises. This condition does not mean kids can’t lead fulfilling and successful lives. Furthermore, most importantly, kids can adapt and overcome their unique challenges with patience and persistence.
Read more: What Are the Benefits of Visual Schedules in the Classroom?
Empowering Your kids
Acknowledging such a condition is the first step to effectively addressing and managing it. That being said, recognizing your child’s unique needs and responding to them will make all the difference. So parents, fret not. There are abundant resources available, including forums, research, and technological tools like the Goally Skill Building Tablet that can assist in the introduction of new learning strategies for your kids.
Build Custom Printable Visual Schedules
Is your child having trouble managing their routines? Here’s a free visual schedule builder. Goally’s custom tool allows you to create printable personalized schedules that motivate your child to focus on their tasks. Perfect for morning, homework, and bedtime routines, this free visual schedule builder is easy to use and will help your child reach their full potential.
Click below to make your CUSTOM printable visual schedule! 👇
Understanding visual processing disorder involves recognizing the symptoms, seeking help, and empowering kids with the tools they need to succeed. While challenges may exist, they are not insurmountable. So gear up, embrace a positive approach, and you’ll navigate this journey together with your kid.
Hennah is an experienced writer and researcher, helping children with autism, ADHD, and other neurodivergent conditions. As a blog contributor for Goally, she combines her deep understanding of neurodiversity with practical advice, offering valuable insights to parents and educators.
