Introduction: The Role of Primary Schools in Vision Health
Primary schools are crucial in identifying children who may have hidden vision issues that impede their learning. Teachers, often on the front lines of education, might notice early signs of these problems long before a formal diagnosis is made. However, recognizing these issues is not typically covered in teacher training programs, leaving a significant gap in support for affected students.
Game-Changer: “See The Change” by Nichola Kennedy
A recent publication by Kilcullen optician Nichola Kennedy aims to illuminate this often-overlooked topic. Her book, See The Change, raises awareness in primary schools about the vital link between vision and learning. As one of only three certified neurodevelopmental and behavioural optometrists in Ireland, Nichola has already transformed the lives of over 80 children suffering from undiagnosed vision problems.
Seeing Beyond Standard Eye Tests
Nichola emphasizes that traditional eye tests frequently miss deeper issues relating to how the eyes function alongside the brain. “In my practice, I go beyond standard tests, exploring how the brain processes visual information and how children perceive the world around them,” she explains. This approach has helped many children who were not thriving in school due to undetected vision problems.
Success Stories: Real-Life Transformations
During a Q&A session alongside business coach Mary Grant, Nichola shared inspiring examples of her treatments. One young patient struggled with faulty 3D vision, leading to a “ghosting” effect while reading. After receiving special glasses and completing prescribed exercises, that child now reads joyfully—something they had previously avoided.
Another case featured a child with normal eyesight but had difficulty refocusing between the blackboard and his book. After being given specialized reading glasses and targeted exercises, he experienced significant improvement.
A Hybrid Approach to Vision Therapy
To assist families who are far from her practice, Nichola has introduced a hybrid approach with 28 short instructional videos accessible through a digital hub called Brainsight. This innovative model allows for one-on-one assessments followed by ongoing support via WhatsApp, making critical resources available to families regardless of distance.
Why Focus on Vision?
Nichola’s passion for this field was sparked during her optometry training, influenced by her mentor Margaret Barrett. “I always believed there had to be an answer for why certain children struggled,” she says. Her commitment has led her to complete a course with the British Association of Behavioural Optometrists, refining her expertise over the years.
Understanding the Connection Between Vision and Learning
In her book, See The Change, Nichola delves into why children may focus on screens but struggle with reading. She highlights how poor eye coordination and visual fatigue can hinder learning and offers practical tools for parents. The publication serves as a guide on when to seek behavioral optometric evaluations and vision therapy, making it an essential resource for families.
Conclusion: Empowering Families and Educators
See The Change is designed for parents looking for answers regarding their child’s learning or behavioral challenges, which may stem from vision issues. It encourages a proactive approach to addressing these problems at a crucial stage in a child’s development. The book is available at Woodbine Books in Kilcullen and also as a Kindle edition on Amazon. By raising awareness and providing practical solutions, Nichola Kennedy is paving the way for a brighter future for children facing vision-related learning challenges.
