Is Your Child's Behavior Linked to Vision Problems? When Vision Therapy Can Help

As a parent, noticing changes in your child's behavior can be concerning. Whether it’s struggles with reading, difficulty concentrating, or acting out in school, many families naturally explore emotional or learning-related causes first. At 730 North Optometry, we often see children whose behavior challenges are linked to visual difficulties. Understanding this connection can open the door to life-changing improvements through vision therapy.

How Vision Problems Can Affect Behavior

Vision is about more than just seeing clearly. It involves complex processes like eye teaming, tracking, focusing, and visual processing. When any of these functions are impaired, it can lead to:

• Difficulty maintaining attention, especially during reading or near work

• Frequent headaches or eye strain

• Skipping lines or losing place when reading

• Frustration and acting out in classroom settings

• Avoidance of homework or reading activities

• Poor hand-eye coordination impacting sports or handwriting

Because children often assume everyone sees the way they do, they might not realize they have a problem - leaving vision issues to manifest as behavioral or academic struggles.

What Is Vision Therapy?

Vision therapy is much like physical therapy for the visual system. Through a series of tailored exercises and activities, it improves fundamental visual skills, helping children overcome obstacles that may be impacting their academic and social performance. At 730 North Optometry, our vision therapy programs are personalized to meet each child's unique needs and are guided by experienced professionals.

Signs Your Child May Benefit from Vision Therapy

While a standard vision screening may not catch functional vision problems, a comprehensive eye exam with a developmental optometrist can. Here are some signs that vision therapy may be appropriate:

• Complaints of blurred or double vision

• Covering one eye while reading

• Short attention span for visual tasks

• Tilting the head or closing one eye to see better

• Reversing letters or words when writing

• Difficulty copying from the board at school

• Behavioral changes, such as irritability or withdrawal, particularly around schoolwork

Vision therapy focuses on strengthening the visual skills necessary for learning, reading, and behavior regulation. It’s a customized, evidence-based program designed to retrain the brain and eyes to work together more effectively.

Supporting Families in Libertyville and Beyond

At 730 North Optometry, we are proud to support families in Libertyville, IL and the surrounding communities with expert vision care services. Our team understands how vital clear, functional vision is for a child's academic, social, and emotional development. We take a personalized approach to help each child overcome vision-related challenges and reach their full potential.

If you suspect your child may be struggling with vision-related issues, contact 730 North Optometry to schedule a comprehensive eye exam and learn more about how vision therapy can help. Visit our office in Libertyville, Illinois, or call (847) 362-9900 to book an appointment today.