Vision plays a far more complex role than simply allowing us to see. It helps our brain remember, identify, and judge where we are in relation to the world around us. When visual processing is disrupted or impaired, everyday tasks, from reading to navigating physical spaces, can quickly become challenging.

If you haven’t yet read Part One of this series, I recommend starting there. Today, I’ll be exploring the remaining four types of Visual Processing Disorder (VPD) and why understanding them matters for both parents and professionals supporting children with learning and sensory differences.

The Remaining Four Types of Visual Processing Issues

1. Long- or Short-Term Visual Memory Issues

Children with visual memory difficulties may struggle to recall what they’ve seen, whether moments later or over time. This can affect: Reading comprehension

• Spelling
• Using keyboards or calculators
• Remembering written instructions

A child may read a sentence but forget its content by the time they reach the next line, making learning and everyday tasks frustrating.

2. Visual-Spatial Issues

Visual-spatial challenges affect a child’s ability to judge where objects are in space. Common signs include:

• Difficulty estimating distances
• Struggling to follow physical directions, such as walking in a line or stopping at a specific spot
• Trouble understanding maps or telling time

One common description of this experience is feeling as though one is “floating in space” without clear reference points. With the proper diagnosis, often through a neuropsychologist or developmental optometrist, and consistent occupational therapy, many children can make significant progress in overcoming these challenges.

3. Visual Closure Issues

Visual closure issues occur when a child cannot recognize an object or shape when parts of it are missing. For example:

• Not identifying a bicycle missing its wheels
• Struggling with puzzles or incomplete drawings
• Having difficulty completing shapes or letters in handwriting tasks

While this may seem like a minor detail, it has a significant impact on reading, writing, and even practical problem-solving skills.

4. Letter and Symbol Reversal Issues

It’s normal for young children to occasionally reverse letters or numbers. However, if these reversals persist past age seven, it may indicate an underlying visual processing concern. Continued struggles can affect:

• Reading fluency
• Writing accuracy
• Math and number recognition

Why Accurate Diagnosis Matters

Children with VPD may not realize they see the world differently, and many visual processing issues overlap with symptoms of ADHD or dyslexia. For example, trouble focusing on reading tasks or tracking words on a page may be mistaken for attention deficit disorder (ADD) or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

To avoid misdiagnosis, parents and caregivers should:

• Research and learn about VPD
• Schedule an evaluation with a qualified developmental optometrist or neuropsychologist.
• Can visit [www.covd.org] to find specialists in your area

For families navigating additional diagnoses like Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD), or Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD/dyspraxia), assessments may take time and patience. However, with a skilled and compassionate provider, the right information can be gathered to support your child’s needs.

Advocating for Your Child’s Vision Health

Proper diagnosis and treatment start with strong advocacy. Seek out reputable specialists, ask questions, and don’t hesitate to follow up if something feels unclear. Developmental optometrists and healthcare professionals are not infallible and can make mistakes; your active involvement is essential.

Visual Processing Disorders can make daily life harder for a child, but with awareness, evaluation, and the right support plan in place, children can learn to navigate these challenges successfully.

Next Steps:

If Part Two has given you clearer insight into the remaining types of visual processing challenges, I encourage you to revisit Part One if you haven’t already. Understanding all eight types can help you better support your child’s unique needs.

As an individual provider, I offer reading, writing, and comprehension intervention and remediation services tailored to children with learning disabilities and differences, including Visual Processing Disorder (VPD), dyslexia, ADHD, and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

If you’re looking for guidance, strategies, or one-on-one support, I’m here to help.

Contact me me today to learn more about my services and schedule a consultation. Let’s work together to create a path forward for your child’s learning and growth.