Visual processing deficits or disorders involve the inability of the brain to make sense of information seen. This differs from physical problems of sight itself, such as blindness, colorblindness or near- or far-sightedness. We need clear visual perception to learn to read well, form letters and words correctly, develop visual memory and foster hand-eye coordination. Parents and educators should work closely with children with suspected visual deficiencies to overcome them at an early age.
Visual discrimination is the ability to discern similarities and differences, such as among objects or colors. "I Spy"-type games can help younger children learn to distinguish colors. Using pictures in a book or objects in a room, start the game by saying something like, "I spy something blue." The child then tries to identify the object. "Where's Waldo"-type picture searches that focus on color can also be helpful. Older children can benefit from conversations about the uses of color in society, such as yellow signifying caution in traffic lights and some street signs.
Children with visual deficits may also have difficulty distinguishing shapes. You can play a version of the "I Spy" game using shapes. Draw a circle and ask the child to find objects in the room or a picture that have the same shape. Another option is to have the child make a scrapbook that contains pages for various shapes. The child cuts pictures of objects from magazines that fit each shape type and pastes them in the book. Matching socks also helps children practice discerning shapes, color and size, depending upon the kinds of socks in your household.
To develop visual memory, ask the child to study a picture for a minute and then tell you about the picture without looking at it. Start with simple pictures that portray some activity and move on to increasingly complex visuals. You can also play a "What's Missing" game. Place several objects on a table or in a box. After the child studies them for a minute, have the child look away and remove one object. The child needs to say what is missing. This activity can become increasingly complex as visual memory grows by using more objects to begin with and replacing the removed object with a similar object (a red apple in place of a yellow apple, for instance).