ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder) and ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) are common diagnoses for children who have difficulty focusing in school. But did you know that some of the symptoms of ADD/ADHD can actually be caused or aggravated by an undiagnosed vision problem? At Fox Vision Development Center, located in Latham, we help parents discover whether any of their child’s attention issues may be linked to visual skills.
Understanding ADD/ADHD
ADD/ADHD is characterized by difficulty focusing, staying on task, and controlling impulsive behavior. These children are often fidgety, easily distracted, and struggle to complete assignments. While ADD/ADHD can be a valid diagnosis, it’s important to rule out vision-related problems before jumping to conclusions.
The Connection Between Vision and Attention Issues
- Eye Focusing and Sustaining Attention: Children with poor eye focusing skills may struggle to keep their attention on one task. They may have difficulty switching focus between near and far objects, such as looking from their desk to the board.
- Visual Information Processing: Processing visual information quickly is essential for staying on task. Children with slow visual processing may appear distracted because they can’t keep up with the flow of information in the classroom.
- Eye Teaming Problems and Hyperactivity: Poor eye teaming can make it difficult for children to read or focus on visual tasks, causing them to become restless or hyperactive in an attempt to avoid the discomfort.
How Vision Therapy Can Help
At Fox Vision Development Center, we offer vision therapy programs that target underlying visual issues. By improving eye coordination, focusing skills, and visual processing, children can experience a reduction in symptoms related to ADD/ADHD if they are actually visual problems to begin with.
Is It ADD/ADHD or a Vision Problem?
If your child has been diagnosed with ADD/ADHD or shows signs of attention problems, consider scheduling a comprehensive vision evaluation at Fox Vision Development Center in Latham, NY. Dr. Robert Fox will assess whether poor visual skills may be contributing to your child’s difficulties. Call us today to take the first step toward finding the right solution for your child’s unique needs.
