The Connection Between Vision, Attention and ADHD in the Classroom

When children struggle in the classroom, it's natural for parents and teachers to wonder if attention issues like ADHD might be the cause. However, what many people do not realize is that these same behaviors can also stem from undiagnosed vision problems. Some children labeled as having attention difficulties may actually be dealing with visual challenges that interfere with their ability to learn effectively. Understanding the connection between vision and learning is essential, especially when it comes to supporting children with ADHD-like symptoms.

Attention and Vision Problems

The following symptoms often associated with ADHD or poor attention:

•          Making careless mistakes in schoolwork

•          Difficulty sitting still or maintaining attention on reading

•          “Daydreaming” in class

•          Difficulties organizing tasks and activities

•          Losing or misplacing belongings

•          Avoidance of near-point tasks such as reading and writing.

These same symptoms are frequently seen in children with undiagnosed vision problems that affect learning. To compound the issue, children diagnosed with ADHD are 3x more likely to also have a convergence insufficiency, a treatable binocular vision disorder.¹ The symptoms of vision related learning problems often mimic attention problems. This overlap can easily lead to a misdiagnosis, which means the root cause of the problem may go untreated.

How Vision Impacts Learning and Attention

Vision is much more than seeing clearly. It involves a complex set of visual skills that allow us to interpret and respond to what we see. These skills include eye tracking, eye teaming, focusing, and visual processing. When any of these systems are underdeveloped or not functioning properly, a child can become frustrated, avoid reading, or struggle to stay focused.

For example, a child who cannot maintain focus on a line of text may look away frequently or appear to be inattentive. Another child who has trouble with eye teaming may squirm in their seat or rub their eyes, appearing restless or distracted. These behaviors may be misinterpreted as signs of ADHD when in reality, the child is trying to compensate for visual discomfort.

The Importance of a Developmental Vision Evaluation

To truly understand whether a child is experiencing an attention disorder or a vision-related learning issue, a comprehensive eye exam is not enough. Children need a functional vision evaluation, which goes beyond basic eye health and visual acuity to assess how well the eyes function together, how they track across a page, and how visual information is processed.

This type of evaluation can identify underlying visual issues that might be affecting your child’s ability to learn. If a vision problem is discovered, vision therapy or special prism lenses may be recommended.

Take the First Step in Supporting Your Child’s Growth

At New Horizons Vision Therapy Center, we’re committed to helping every child thrive academically and build confidence in themselves. If your child has been diagnosed with ADHD or shows signs of attention challenges, it’s essential to consider whether vision issues could be contributing factors.

Schedule a functional vision evaluation with New Horizons Vision Therapy Center and discover how better visual function can lead to better success. Contact either our Waunakee or Waukesha, Wisconsin locations, by calling (608) 849-4040 to book an appointment today.

1.     Granet DB, Gomi CF, Ventura R, Miller-Scholte A. The relationship between convergence insufficiency and ADHD. Strabismus. 2005 Dec;13(4):163-8. doi: 10.1080/09273970500455436. PMID: 16361187.