Dr. Kalie McCartin
Developmental and Neuro-Optometrist
Owner, Visual Processing Institute
Why Does My Child Want to Touch Everything?
Understanding Sensory Processing and the NEED to Touch Everything
Have you ever watched your child navigate a room, seemingly drawn to every surface, from doorframes to walls to furniture? If so, you might be dealing with a child with visual processing dysfunction or binocular vision disorder.
These children often exhibit a strong desire to touch everything in their environment. This behavior isn't just about curiosity; it's a way to compensate for visual processing challenges.
The Importance of Visual Processing
Our brains are constantly working to create a mental map of our surroundings. This process, called visual processing, involves more than just seeing clearly. It also includes understanding spatial relationships, depth perception, and eye-hand coordination.
For children with visual processing difficulties, this map can be blurry or incomplete. To make sense of their world, they may rely heavily on touch to confirm what their eyes are seeing.
Misdiagnosis and the Glitchy Virtual Reality
It's common for children with visual processing issues to be misdiagnosed with ADHD. This is because their constant need for sensory input can make it difficult to focus on tasks or conversations.
Imagine your child's world as a glitchy virtual reality game. The graphics are blurry, the controls are unresponsive, and it's hard to tell where you're supposed to go. To compensate, you might reach out and touch things to ground yourself.
Advocating for Your Child
If you suspect your child has visual processing dysfunction, it's important to seek professional help. A qualified eye care provider can diagnose the condition and recommend appropriate treatment.
Vision therapy, often referred to as "vision tutoring," can be a valuable tool for improving visual processing skills. This therapy involves a series of exercises designed to strengthen the muscles of the eyes and improve their coordination.
Remember, you're not alone. Many children experience visual processing challenges, and with the right support, they can overcome these obstacles and thrive. By understanding the underlying causes of your child's behavior, you can provide the support they need to succeed.
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