Children's Services

Dyslexia and eye tracking problems

Dyslexia is a common learning disorder that can cause children to have difficulties with specific elements of learning, such as reading and writing. Dyslexia is not related to intelligence or IQ and has nothing to do with being lazy or underachieving. However, a correct diagnosis of dyslexia is important in order to ensure children get the appropriate support they may need to help them manage and thrive in their education and self-confidence. 

Many children with dyslexia will also have eye tracking problems. This means there are problems with eye movement and the ability to ‘follow’ or ‘track’ normally particularly when using close-up vision for tasks like reading. It is important to remember that eye movement problems are not the cause of dyslexia, but may occur as a result of it.

However, getting an accurate diagnosis of eye tracking disorders is important, so that appropriate steps can be taken to help your child manage and overcome any difficulties they’re experiencing with tasks like reading as a result of the problem.

Diagnosis of Eye Tracking Problems

London eye specialist Mr. Saurabh Jain has a wealth of experience and specialist expertise in a wide range of childhood eye problems, including eye tracking and eye movement disorders that may occur in some children with dyslexia.

Diagnosis of eye tracking disorders may often occur separately to dyslexia being tested and diagnosed. If you are concerned, an eye tracking test for children can be arranged to determine whether eye movement problems are contributing to any difficulties with tasks like reading and writing.

In addition, it is also a good idea to carry out an eye examination in children diagnosed with dyslexia to ensure there are not any associated refractive errors or convergence insufficiency that need to be corrected.

Treatment of Eye Tracking Problems

Treatment for dyslexia should be discussed separately with your child’s school and relevant specialists. Treatment of eye tracking disorders does not cure or treat the dyslexia – however eye movement exercises may be beneficial in helping your child overcome difficulties linked with eye tracking problems. Leading London eye specialist Mr. Saurabh Jain is happy to talk parents through the theories behind treating eye tracking disorders and offer guidance in managing eye movement problems in children with dyslexia.

Vision therapy for dyslexia is controversial and there are a lot of excellent resources available on the Internet to help parents choose what is best for their child. Some links that you might find useful are:

Understood.org