Vision is more than 20/20
Ask the Experts by Danna Haba, OD, FCOVD
Q: My child passed the vision screening tests in school how could she have a vision problem?
A: Vision is more than 20/20. A learning-related visual problem directly affects how we learn, read, or sustain close work. Visual problems in any of the following areas can have a significant impact on learning:
- eye tracking skills - eyes following a line of print
- eye teaming skills - two eyes working together as a synchronized team
- binocular vision - simultaneously blending the images from both eyes into one image
- accommodation - eye focusing
- visual-motor integration - eye-hand coordination
- visual perception - visual memory, visual form perception, and visualization
Signs your child may have a vision or visual processing problem: Loses his or her place while reading; Avoids close work; Holds reading material closer than normal; Tends to rub eyes; Has headaches; Turns or tilts head to use one eye only; Makes frequent reversals when reading or writing; Uses finger to maintain place while reading; Performs below potential.
As vision and learning are intimately connected, a vision problem can be easily mistaken for a learning problem. Youngsters with visual problems can be misdiagnosed as having Learning Disabilities, ADHD, or Dyslexia. There are various reasons for this misdiagnosis. For example, children who have learning-related visual problems cannot sustain their close work at school. They may be misdiagnosed as ADHD because children with ADHD also can't sustain attention on their work. Same behaviors, different diagnosis.
Dr. Haba has been treating vision related learning problems for over twenty years. Recent brain research studies have indicated the importance of proper visual system development to the academic success of students. Dr. Haba is Board Certified as a Fellow by the College of Optometrists in Vision Development. This organization recognizes doctors who have expertise in working with special needs children and brain injury patients. Haba is the Clinical Director for Excel Institute of Shelby where she treats vision related vision problems. She can be reached at 586-731-9725. Visit the website at www.excelshelby.com. Dr. Dana Haba is a member of The Family Center's Association of Professionals.
The Family Center, a 501C 3, non-profit organization, serves as the community's hub
for information, resources and referral for families and professionals.
To view more Ask The Experts articles, please visit our website www.familycenterweb.org.
Please email your questions to
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
To volunteer or contribute, visit familycenterweb.org or call 313.432.3832.
20090 Morningside Drive, Grosse Pointe Woods, MI 48236
Celebrating a Decade of Commitment to Community Families
