Advice and resources : Visual (sight) system

Overview

If the brain does not process visual sensation accurately then we may be described as over responsive or under-responsive to visual sensation and this will affect our behaviour. We may need more or less visuals in our environment in order to help us focus on a task.

Over-responsive visual (sight) system

A child with an over responsive visual or sight system might:

• become more erratic in a busier, more visually stimulating environment
• be visually distracted by others
• notice everything that’s happening in the room
• keep their head and eyes facing downwards most of the time
• startle at visual input
• show a sensitivity to light
• be irritated by bright lights
• like to wear sunglasses or a peaked cap

How you can help a child with an over-responsive visual system

• Give them a quiet corner for work, for short times during the day (this might mean creating a place in their classroom, such as a corner separated by dividers).
• Let them wear sunglasses or a cap if it helps.
• Use dimmer lighting when possible.
• In class, let them sit facing a plain wall to work, and in front of the teacher or board when listening.

Under-responsive visual system

A child with an under-responsive visual system might:

• not notice details in pictures
• show a lack of attention to the environment or people
• often miss visual cues
• look untidy or lack the ability to present themselves smartly

How you can help a child with an under-responsive visual system

• Play games such as ‘I spy’, ‘Where’s Wally’, ‘Kim’s game’, puzzle books and word searches.
• Encourage them to read using a ruler under the line of text
• Use lined paper for writing.
• Make sure your child’s eyes are regularly tested by an optician.