Is Your Child Struggling to Read? It Could Be Visual Stress
Is Your Child Struggling to Read? It Could Be Visual Stress - Not a Learning Issue
What Is Visual Stress?
Visual Stress, sometimes referred to as Meares-Irlen Syndrome, is a condition that affects the way the brain processes visual information. It can make reading difficult, uncomfortable, or even distressing, especially for children. Despite being relatively common, it is often overlooked or misdiagnosed as a learning difficulty or behavioural issue.
Children with Visual Stress are often bright and capable, yet they may find it hard to read fluently, concentrate on written tasks or stay engaged during classes. In some cases it’s not a lack of ability, but a visual processing issue that makes reading far more challenging for a child.
What Are The Common Symptoms of Visual Stress?
- Skipping words or lines when reading
- Complaints that words move, flicker or blur on the page
- Headaches or eye strain when reading
- Rubbing eyes, fidgeting or avoiding reading altogether
- Poor reading comprehension despite good verbal ability
- Difficulty tracking words across the page
How Read EZ Technology Can Help
Read EZ is a digital screening system designed to identify whether a person may benefit from coloured overlays or tinted lenses. These filters can calm the visual system, reduce distortions and make reading feel more comfortable and manageable.
The Read EZ screening takes around 30 minutes and is non-invasive. It uses a series of reading and visual tasks to assess how the eyes respond to text and colour. If a specific colour overlay improves clarity and comfort, it may indicate that Visual Stress is present.
Why Detecting Visual Stress Early Matters
If left unrecognised, Visual Stress can impact a child’s educational experience and learning journey. It may lead to frustration, underperformance or being wrongly labelled as disengaged or inattentive. With the right screening and support, children affected by Visual Stress can see rapid improvements in their ability to read and enjoy learning.
It’s important to note that Visual Stress Screenings aren’t just for children, adults who experience similar reading discomfort or visual distortions can also benefit with the Read EZ system.
Visual Stress Screening at Bayfields
We now offer Read EZ Visual Stress Screenings at selected Bayfields practices as part of our commitment to helping individuals of all age groups see more comfortably and clearly. If you or your child are experiencing unexplained reading difficulties, it may be worth considering a screening for Visual Stress.
Interested in Learning More?
Contact one of our participating practices and book an appoinment:
Or visit Read EZ's website here more information on the science behind visual stress and how the screening can help.