Behavioural optometry is an extended area of optometry which considers more than just whether ones eyes can see the smallest print or 20/20. It carefully examines visual skills such as eye tracking, focussing and eye teamwork to ensure the eyes are working effectively and efficiently. If there are problems in these areas it can seriously affect the way visual information is processed.

Even if one has perfect eyesight, these poor visual skills may negatively affect their performance and/or behaviour and this could contribute or accompany learning difficulties.

The main goals of a behavioural vision assessment are to:

• prevent vision problems from developing
• provide treatment for vision problems that have already developed
• enhance visual skills needed to achieve more effective visual performance in the classroom

Your behavioural optometrist may recommend treatments including:

• advice on visual habits to prevent or reduce the development of visual problems
• prescription of spectacle lenses or prisms
• vision therapy to enhance and develop visual skills
• referral to an ophthalmologist, health-care professional or Learning Centre