Visual Processing Deficiency Information

Visual Processing Disorder

Visual Processing Disorders affect the way in which the brain processes what the eyes see. These are not necessarily connected with any sort of visual impairment or sight loss. There are several types of visual processing disorders: Visual Discrimination, Auditory Figure-Ground Discrimination, Visual Sequencing, Visual Motor Processing, Visual Memory, Visual Closure, Spatial Relationships. Please make sure that accommodation strategies match the type of visual processing disorder. For more specific information see the resources below.

Noticeable Behaviors:

• Confusing written symbols
• Difficulty organizing things on a page (math problems, writing)
• Easily distracted
• Difficulty copying from board or books
• Difficulty judging distances
• Struggles with fine motor activities
• Has trouble organizing information from several sources into one document
• Has trouble finding specific information on a page
• Difficulty remembering directions
• Difficulty staying in the right place while reading

Accommodation Strategies:

• Clearly space words/problems on a page
• Color code written instructions
• Use an index card or ruler while reading
• Use computer and/or tape recorder
• Ask to give oral reports instead of written ones
• Ask for oral instructions along with written
• Ask for clearly written handouts
• Practice creating maps and estimating distances
• Use enlarged print (or a larger font) when possible
• Make lines darker for clear distinction
• Simplify worksheets