Eye care for neurodiverse children and adolescents

Eye care for neurodiverse children and adolescents

Neurodiverse children and adolescents, including those with ADHD, dyslexia, and autism, can have unique visual needs that influence learning, comfort, and daily activities. While neurodiversity itself does not cause eye disease, many young people in these groups experience visual processing differences, sensitivity to light, or difficulty communicating symptoms. Understanding how eye care professionals can support assists parents in making informed decisions for their child, as well as seeking the right assessments at the right time.

Leading consultant specialist optometrist Mr Shakeel Puri at Chase Eyecare in Cannock, which offers a patient friendly environment with expertise specifically tailored to the eye care needs of neurodiverse children and adolescents, answers frequently-asked questions parents and guardians have about this area of optometric treatment and how in the Chase Eyecare team’s experience, attending such a specialist appointment can have a significant impact.

Q & A

How can ADHD, dyslexia, and autism affect visual experience?

Children with ADHD may struggle with visual attention, which can make it difficult to sustain focus on reading materials or classroom tasks. They may lose their place when reading, skip words, or rub their eyes due to fatigue. These symptoms can sometimes resemble a vision problem even when the eyes are healthy.

Dyslexia is not caused by eyesight issues, but some children experience visual discomfort during reading. Words may appear to move or blur, making reading more tiring. While dyslexia is a language-based condition, a full eye examination helps ensure that any co-existing visual issues are identified and managed.

Autistic children often have heightened sensory sensitivity. Bright lights, busy visual environments, or direct eye contact can feel overwhelming. They may also find clinical environments difficult, which means eye assessments need an adapted, child-centred approach.

What does an eye test for neurodiverse children involve?

A comprehensive eye examination evaluates vision, eye movement control, depth perception, and eye health. For neurodiverse children, the process is adapted to reduce stress and ensure reliable results. Clinicians may use shorter instructions, visual prompts, or play-based techniques to maintain attention. When communication is a challenge, objective tests such as light-based measurements can assess prescription needs without asking the child to describe what they see.

Appointments may take longer, and families are encouraged to share strategies that help their child feel comfortable.

What are the key signs that an eye assessment may be needed?

Parents may notice a number of indicators, including:

• difficulty concentrating on reading or schoolwork
• frequent blinking, eye rubbing, or complaints of headaches
• holding screens or books very close
• skipping words or lines when reading
• sensitivity to bright lights or busy visual patterns
• avoidance of visually demanding tasks

These signs do not always indicate a vision problem, but they do suggest that an assessment would be helpful.

What eye care strategies can support neurodiverse young people?

Support starts with identifying any need for glasses, as even minor prescription issues can affect comfort and attention. Managing focusing difficulties, eye movement problems, or visual fatigue may improve a child’s ability to engage with schoolwork. Advice about reducing screen glare, using softer lighting, or adjusting reading materials can also make a difference, particularly for autistic children who find light sensitivity challenging.

Children with dyslexia may benefit from guidance on reading breaks, suitable fonts, or coloured overlays if visual discomfort is present. For those with ADHD, structured routines for wearing glasses and limiting visual distractions during homework can also be helpful.

When should families seek help?

Any concerns about vision, reading comfort, school performance, or eye discomfort should be discussed with an optometrist or ophthalmologist. Early assessment ensures that treatable issues are addressed promptly, supporting learning and everyday functioning.

An eye care approach that recognises the needs of neurodiverse children can make the assessment process smoother and provide tailored solutions that support confidence, comfort, and long-term visual health. In our experience, attending such a specialist appointment can be a life changing experience for patients.

If you’re looking for expert eyecare for neurodivergent children or adolescents in Cannock, arrange a consultation with us Please Click here