Challenges of Low Vision in Children

September 19, 2024Occupational Therapy, Reading, Visualassistive technology, behavioral optometrist, caregiver role, developmental delays, early detection, educational needs, individualized education plans, low vision diagnosis, low vision in children, low vision specialists, motor skill development, Occupational Therapy, parental support, social skills, therapeutic interventions, vision challenges, vision therapy, visual perception, visual processing, visual system components, visual tracking, visual-spatial tasksGuest Blogger

Definition and Impact:

Vision is the interpretation of what an individual sees. The visual system includes the following components: acuity, binocularity, fixation, and visual tracking. Low vision is a condition characterized by reduced vision that cannot be fully corrected with glasses, contact lenses, or surgery. “Challenged vision” seems to be a more descriptive term for this multi-faceted diagnosis because low vision seems to imply decreased visual acuity whereas challenged vision is a broader term and implies how vision problems affect visual perception. However, for this article, the term “low vision” will continue to be used to be inclusive of the many difficulties that are more inclusive than only visual acuity. Low vision may manifest with a number of problems including blurry vision, decreased depth perception, poor reading skills, discomfort sustaining visual attention, headaches, and more. Low vision can severely affect children’s ability to learn, develop social skills, and participate in daily activities.

The Vision Council is an organization that aspires to be a vision care leader in “enabling better vision for better lives.” Its mission includes promoting growth in vision care through advocacy, education, research, and consumer outreach. In June 2024, The Vision Council published a report: Focused inSights: Patients with Low Vision. Results were based on two Focus Groups representing participants with low vision (adults) and primary caregivers of children with low vision. Children were diagnosed, primarily by optometrists (41%), typically when a child began school. Symptoms included: blurry vision, light sensitivity, inability to see in low light, and struggles with reading. From there they were referred to other providers including low vision specialists, occupational therapists, and assistive technology specialists.

Developmental Challenges for Children with Low Vison:

Children with low vision often face developmental delays, particularly in motor skills, visual-spatial tasks, and academic skills including reading and writing. These challenges can lead to difficulties in reading, writing, and navigating the environment. The lack of visual cues can also hinder their social interactions and ability to learn from their surroundings. Low vision can lead to emotional and psychological challenges, such as frustration, anxiety, or social withdrawal, which are common in children dealing with impaired visual functioning.

Educational Needs for Children with Low Vision:

Education for children with low vision must be tailored to their specific needs. This often includes the use of assistive technologies, such as magnifiers and screen readers to support their learning. Schools provide individualized education plans (IEPs) to accommodate these children effectively. Additionally, teachers can arrange their classrooms to avoid visual overstimulation for all students. Incorporating movement into a teaching activity, like pairing up with a classmate to throw and catch letter beanbags to learn letters works on learning letters while using bilateral skills and spatial skills.

Therapeutic Interventions for Children with Low Vision:

Vision is considered more than optical clarity or muscle and nerve functioning; it examines vision development and is influenced by what the child sees along with their physical actions. Occupational therapy, vision therapy with a behavioral/developmental optometrist, and a vision professional with specialized training can help children with low vision
develop compensatory skills. These therapies focus on improving the child’s ability to perform daily activities, enhancing their remaining vision, and promoting independence.

The June 4, 2024 Therapro webinar recording: Getting and Keeping Your Child’s Vision in Sync and the September 10, 2024 webinar, In-Sync Child Activities to Help Kids Develop and Enhance Visual Processing Skills by Joye Newman, are available to watch on demand. Joyce Newman provides a wonderful overview of how vision develops, components of the visual system, symptoms of dysfunction, and suggestions for treating them. Therapro has materials Joye recommended to address vision issues.

A Year Of Mini-Moves For The In-Sync Child; movement activities to support vision — A Year Of Mini-Moves For The In-Sync Child

The In-Sync Activity Cards Book; activities to support vison development in children — A Year Of Mini-Moves For The In-Sync Child

Parental and Caregiver Support:

Parents and caregivers play a vital role in supporting children with low vision. This support includes advocating for appropriate services, creating an accessible home environment, and helping children develop self-care and independence skills. Family involvement is crucial in helping children adapt to their visual challenges. Family is a crucial component of the
child’s team. Consistent carryover of teachers’ , therapists’, and vision specialists’ recommendations optimizes a child’s visual skills and visual development at home, school, and in the community.

Summary:

Early detection, intervention, and support are crucial to managing the impact of low vision on a child’s development. The quality of vision affects a child’s intellectual, emotional, behavioral, and social growth and development. Working as a team with teachers, therapists, and vision
specialists will empower parents and caregivers to support their child with low vision effectively.

Guest Author: Filomena Connor, MSOT-Retired

Discover the SENcastle: A Revolutionary Sensory Solution

August 27, 2024Occupational Therapy, Sensoryassistive technology, autism, Occupational Therapy, OT, sensory processing disorder, Sensory Solutions, SensoryIntegration, Special Education, Therapy toolsAllyson Locke, M.S., OTR/L

Occupational therapists know that every child’s sensory system is unique, requiring individualized approaches to address their specific needs. Often, creating an effective sensory space demands substantial room and specialized equipment. Enter the SENcastle – a compact, portable sensory room that offers a sensory solution designed to transform how therapists address sensory processing challenges.

A Game-Changer for Meeting Sensory Needs

Developed in collaboration with special education teachers and sensory integration therapists, the SENcastle offers a comprehensive and adaptive sensory experience. This multimodal sensory device connects children’s sensory needs with assistive technology, providing controlled sensory input through five sensory systems: visual, auditory, tactile, vestibular, and proprioceptive.

Why Occupational Therapists Will Love the SENcastle

1. Versatile and Adaptable: The SENcastle fits seamlessly into most environments, whether it’s a classroom, therapy clinic, or community setting. Its compact design ensures it can be integrated into individual or group settings, as well as shared spaces for universal access.

SENcastle cushions, 6 specially designed cushions that offer a range of sensory experiences

2. Comprehensive Sensory Input: With its thoughtfully designed components, the SENcastle offers a wide range of sensory experiences. The central light column, equipped with advanced LED technology, projects dynamic visual effects, while integrated sound effects enhance the auditory experience. Six specially designed sensory cushions provide varied tactile and proprioceptive input, creating a holistic sensory environment.

3. Easy to Use: The SENcastle is user-friendly and straightforward to operate. With five control buttons and RFID-enabled sensory cards, therapists can easily manage sensory scenes, adjust sound and light intensity, and customize the experience to meet each child’s needs.

Therapist and child inside the SENcastle using the easy to use RFID cards to create sensory scenes

SENcastle a versatile sensory solution with 6 sensory cushions and a central light column

4. Portable and Space-Efficient: One of the most significant challenges in creating sensory spaces is the requirement for large, dedicated areas and extensive equipment. The SENcastle addresses this by offering a portable solution that can be set up quickly and efficiently, taking up minimal space while providing maximum benefits.

5. Promotes Independence and Generalization: By integrating sensory experiences into everyday situations, the SENcastle helps children generalize and apply behaviors learned in specialized settings to their daily activities. This promotes greater independence and enhances their ability to navigate various environments successfully.

Features and Technical Specifications

Ergonomic design with spacious interior
Adjustable sound and light intensity
A central light column with visual effects
Integrated sound effects
Six sensory cushions for varied input
Durable construction with easy maintenance
RFID-enabled sensory cards with multiple scenes
Bluetooth Headphones are included to allow use even when in a shared space
Recording capable for personalised messages and sounds
2-year manufacturer’s warranty

Transforming Therapy Sessions

Imagine a sensory solution that not only addresses individual sensory needs but also transforms the environment to optimize therapy sessions. The SENcastle does precisely that, offering a space for “sensory discharge” to calm overstimulated children or a “sensory charging” station to energize those needing additional input.

Bringing Sensory Integration to New Heights

For occupational therapists, the SENcastle is more than just a sensory room; it’s a revolutionary tool that redefines how sensory integration therapy is delivered. Its versatility, portability, and comprehensive features make it an invaluable addition to any therapeutic setting, empowering therapists to create tailored sensory experiences that foster growth, independence, and success.

Ready to explore the SENcastle’s potential? Visit Therapro’s website to learn more and discover how this innovative sensory room can transform your therapy sessions.

Creating a Successful, Sensory-Friendly, Learning Environment

August 9, 2024Assistive Technology, Education, Sensoryassistive technology, assistive technology for kids, back-to-school tips, educational tools, Home learning, home learning environment, learning spaces, Occupational Therapy, occupational therapy products, organization for learning, OT, sensory, sensory-friendly space, student focus toolsGuest Blogger

As the new school year approaches, setting up an effective, sensory-friendly, home learning environment is essential for your child’s success. A well-organized and sensory-friendly space can enhance focus, reduce stress, and make learning more fun. Adapting a learning environment to your child’s specific needs and learning style are crucial elements for a happy, productive learning experience. Therapro offers a wide range of products designed to meet the unique needs of every child, ensuring a smooth and successful back-to-school transition. Here are 5 strategies that will help your child sail smoothly into Fall:

1.) Designate the Ideal Learning Space: Choosing the right location for your child’s learning space is the first step. It should be quiet, well-lit, and free from distractions, such as visual clutter and noise. Ergonomic furniture is essential to ensure comfort and proper posture during study sessions. Therapro’s seating solutions, including Kore Kid’s Wobble Chair and Wiggle Seat Sensory Cushions, are perfect for creating a customized learning environment that grows with your child. Choose from several different sizes of the Wobble Chair to accommodate your child’s height while allowing movement back and forth, front to back, and all around without tipping. The Wiggle Seat comes in 4 colorful shapes to help your child stay focused and stable when seated.

Kore Kids Wobble Chair for a Sensory-friendly learning environment — Wiggle Seat Sensory Cushion

2.) Provide Organizational Tools for Success: Organization plays a key role in effective learning. A consistent routine helps children feel secure and understand what to expect each day. Establishing a daily schedule that includes time for learning, breaks, and play is essential. Visual schedules, planners, and other organizational tools help children understand their daily tasks and manage their time efficiently. Therapro offers a variety of these tools from SchKiDules that are engaging and easy to use. The magnetic 2-Sided Star Board is a versatile tool that unfolds into three 6 inch panels to build a daily visual schedule. Time Timer Original 3-inch timer provides a 60 minute countdown to keep your child on track.

Schkidules visual schedule display — Time Timer

3.) Set Up a Sensory-Friendly Environment to Enhance Focus and Attention: Many children benefit from a sensory-friendly learning environment. Addressing sensory needs can help improve focus and reduce anxiety. Therapro provides a range of sensory products, such as fidgets, weighted items, and sensory materials to create a calming and supportive space for learning. Be sure to check with your child’s occupational therapist to collaborate on what sensory tools would be best for your child. The weighted Sit -Tight Lap Pad’s gentle pressure helps children achieve calm and focus. It easily fastens around the waist with a clip. The adorable Puppy Shoulder Wrap helps active, younger children stay calm and focused as well.

Sit Tight Weighted Lap Pad in a Sensory-friendly learning environment — Sit Tight Weighted Lap Pad

weighted Puppy Shoulder Wrap in a sensory-friendly learning environment — Sit Tight Weighted Lap Pad

Maintaining focus can be challenging for many children. Simple strategies, like using Noise-Canceling Headphones to block out distractions, or visual timers to manage breaks, can make a significant difference. Therapro’s focus tools, including concentration aids and stress-relief items, are designed to help children stay on task. Universal Bouncy Band for Home and School Chairs is a heavy-duty rubber bungee cord that attaches to chair legs allowing the student to support their feet and move, resulting in greater productivity because they are attending to the task.

Bouncy Band for Elementary School Chair — Hush-Buddy Earmuffs

4.) Incorporate Assistive Technology: Assistive technology can greatly enhance a child’s learning experience. Therapro offers a variety of technological aids that cater to different learning needs and styles. These tools not only support academic success but also boost confidence and independence. The compact GoTalk Button records a 10 second message and has a built-in magnet for display on the refrigerator or on any metal surface. Teaching Rings is a tool that provides a fun new technique in teaching and keyboarding or touch typing skills for all ages and skill levels. The child wears 8 teaching rings to teach them the “Home Row” of keys where fingers should always rest when not typing. As the child learns all the keys that each finger types, they can remove the rings.

GoTalk Button — Animal-Shaped Computer Mouse

5.) Offer Parental Involvement and Support: Parents play a crucial role on the school team in their child’s education. By being involved and providing support, you can help your child navigate challenges and celebrate successes. Therapro offers resources and products designed to support parents in creating a positive learning environment at home. Ongoing consultation with your child’s teachers and occupational therapists can help guide you in selecting the best tools for your child’s learning environment at home.

A well-organized, sensory-friendly, and technology-equipped home learning environment can significantly impact your child’s academic success. By exploring and incorporating Therapro’s extensive range of products, you can tailor a positive learning space that meets your child’s unique needs and fosters a love for learning.

Guest Blogger: Filomena Connor, MSOT – Retired