Visual sequencing,Deciphering the Impact: Poor Visual Sequential Memory and Reading Challenges

Does your child struggle with reading, comprehension, or facing difficulties with spelling and math? It might not just be a case of learning difficulties; it could be related to their visual sequential memory.

The ability to remember objects and events in a specific order plays a pivotal role in learning to read, write, comprehend, and excel in mathematics.

In this article, we will explore the concept of visual sequential memory, its importance, and how a visit to a vision therapy eye doctor can help your child overcome these challenges.

Understanding Visual Sequential Memory/ Visual sequencing

Visual sequential memory is the cognitive skill that enables an individual to remember and recall a sequence of objects or events in the correct order. Think of it as a crucial mental function that allows us to interpret the world around us accurately and efficiently. For a child with poor visual sequential memory, even seemingly simple tasks can become challenging.

Example:A child with poor visual sequential memory might mistake ‘stop’ for ‘spot’ or ‘went’ for ‘when,’ which can lead to reading difficulties and comprehension issues.

Recognizing Signs of Poor Visual Sequential Memory

If your child exhibits the following visual processing symptoms, they may be struggling with visual sequential memory issues:

Reading or Comprehension Difficulties: Difficulty in understanding and retaining the content while reading.
Difficulty Remembering Forms: Struggling to remember shapes, orientations, sizes, and colors, or arranging characters in the correct order.
Whispering or Talking Aloud while Writing: Frequent verbalization of their thoughts or ideas while writing or working through assignments.

Spelling Challenges: Consistently misspelling words, adding extra letters, or jumbling letters within words.
Pattern Recognition Problems: Struggling to identify and remember patterns, which can impact mathematical problem-solving.

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Taking Action: Consult an Eye Doctor

If you suspect that your child might be grappling with visual sequential memory issues, it’s essential to consult an eye doctor near you for a comprehensive vision evaluation. Identifying and addressing these issues early can significantly improve your child’s academic performance and overall learning experience.

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The Role of Vision Therapy

Vision therapy offers an effective solution to improve visual sequential memory skills through a series of structured eye exercises. These exercises are specifically designed to enhance a child’s visual information processing abilities. The benefits extend beyond addressing sequential memory problems and can have a profound impact on your child’s reading, comprehension, and spelling skills.

visual sequential memory exercises

Here are some visual sequential memory exercises that can help improve your child’s visual information processing skills:

Memory Decks for Visual sequencing:

This game requires a deck of cards. All the cards are placed upside down. The child flips over two cards at a time, trying to find a matching pair. If the cards match, the child keeps them and takes another turn. If they don’t match, the cards are turned back over and it’s the next player’s turn .

Matching Cards, a visual sequencing excercise:

This game is ideal for children who have difficulty remembering forms (including shapes, orientation, sizes, and colors) or characters in the correct order. You can use matching card games if you have those on hand. 8 or 10 pairs of matching cards so you and your child each have an identical set of pictures. Here are the instructions in words and then in pictures!

Have your child place their cards neatly to the side so they can be easily found. Behind a divider, set out 2 or 3 of your cards without your child seeing. I used only two cards to start with, for this child who struggled. Move the divider away so your child can see your cards.

I try to move the divider so it covers the line of sight to the child’s own cards. This forces your child to concentrate on the revealed cards and not to try to spot them among the pool just yet. Return the divider to its place and let your child attempt to place the same cards down in the same order

Kim’s Game:

This is a well-known game which is used to develop a person’s ability to notice details and recall what was seen. You will need a plain tray, a variety of household objects and/or small toys, and a cloth to cover the items. Make sure your child knows the names of all the objects you will use in Kim’s Game.

Show your child a few objects on the tray for a few seconds. Cover the tray, put your hand under the cover and rearrange the objects. Now ask your child to place the objects into their original position

Visual sequencing, Vision therapy’s advantages include:

Enhanced Learning Skills: Improved visual sequential memory will help your child process information more effectively, enhancing their overall learning capabilities.
Better Reading and Comprehension: With enhanced sequential memory, your child can tackle reading materials with confidence and better understand the content.
Improved Spelling and Writing: Vision therapy exercises can lead to reduced spelling challenges and better-written work.

Academic Success: As your child’s visual processing skills improve, their academic performance is likely to see significant enhancements.

Conclusion

Visual sequencing,Deciphering the Impact: Poor Visual Sequential Memory.

Visual sequential memory is a fundamental skill that shapes a child’s ability to learn, read, and comprehend. Recognising the signs of poor visual sequential memory and taking proactive measures, such as consulting a vision therapy eye doctor, can make a world of difference in your child’s academic journey. By addressing these challenges early and effectively, you can empower your child to succeed in their educational pursuits and beyond.