This blurred text is an excellent representation of how some people with dyslexia see the written word.  This problem is called Visual Stress.  The problem is that the child thinks everybody sees the same way, so getting on top of the situation is extremely difficult.  Sometimes the child will say that the letters are ‘jumping about’.

We must spread the word about getting independent eye examinations.  I believe the one at school (in the UK) unintentionally misleads parents into thinking that an eye test has been carried out and the child has no eye problems.

I have known quite a few children who have ‘passed’ the eye assessment at school over the years. However, often three years later, some of these children will be struggling with reading, writing and spelling, and then the teachers often advise the parents to arrange an in-depth eye test.  When this happens, it is usually clear that the child needs glasses and they have had ‘blurred vision’ for three years.  By this time, the child’s self-esteem has plummeted.  How can we expect them to read when the letters are blurred or jumping about?

Please – Be advised that if your child is struggling with reading, writing and spelling, take them to an optometrist, if nothing else, to rule out eye problems.

I have spoken to several optometrists over the years, and they have all said they are pleased to see young children with an adult because it lets children know there is nothing to be afraid of about having a test.  The eye tests are free!  You can’t say fairer than that, can you?