These are all very good questions that we often get here at Little TheraPeas. Never fear, we have the answers for you below!

Visual processing is not about whether your child can see clearly or not. It’s about the information their visual system gives them and how their body interprets that information.

Some common behaviours we see from children who have visual processing difficulties:

– Dislikes/avoids bright colours or lights – may even cover their eyes. (Over responsive)

– Very easily distracted by everything around the room. (Over responsive)

– Difficulty finding objects in a room or on a page. (Under responsive)

– Doesn’t seem to notice when people come into the room. (Under responsive)

– Seems to be obsessed with flashing lights, action paced/colourful TV, movies or video games – more so than other. (Seeking)

If any of these sound familiar, your child may have visual processing difficulties. Like with all our sensory systems, there are a variety of visual processing difficulties that a child can have and it is extremely important to have an assessment to identify which one your child has to identify the most important strategies to help. This assessment is often initially done by an Occupational Therapist and we will make strategies accordingly. Sometimes we might refer you on to an optometrist or even a behavioural optometrist (these amazing professionals look at the behaviour of your eyes, ie. can you tack and follow smoothly or do you have irregularities with this, etc).

In the meantime, here are our top tips to help visual processing difficulties:

– Reduce the amount of visual stimulation (colours, patterns, posters, art work, etc) around the room (particularly in the classroom or bedroom) to help with following instructions whether it be the morning routine, completing homework or getting work done in class. Only have what is necessary – e.g. a visual schedule for what the child has to get done only.

– Give your child breaks from visual stimulation – allow a place where there is subdued/no lighting. We highly recommend a kids tent or ‘sensahut’.

– Provide a visual schedule/pictures to help with completing tasks (such as the morning routine).

– Use natural lighting where possible but aim for no glare.