Description

One of the biggest obstacles for parents of children needing vision therapy is figuring out how to get their kids on board to take it seriously.

How to do that? Make it FUN.

Today we’re with Ben Berryman, a COVT (Certified Optometric Vision Therapist) and case manager here at 4D Vision Gym who is also a dad of two. He has worked with members of all ages, kids to adults.

In this episode, Ben provides ideas on helping kids understand WHY they’re doing what they’re doing and relating it back to their everyday lives – namely, things they’re interested in, like sports, games, school, art, or superheroes. Whatever will get their attention!

If you can get creative and play with your kids in a different way, they’re going to enjoy it. An added bonus? You’ll get some quality time together.

In this episode you’ll hear about:

• The “20-20-20” rule – every 20 minutes, while working on a screen, look away to something 20 feet away for 20 seconds
• Ways to make therapy fun: make it a competition; make it a challenge; make it a game; turn it into something kids are interested in (for example, role-playing as superheroes)
• How family game nights (particularly with games that involve fine motor control, like Operation, or visual memory, like UNO) can reinforce vision therapy in a positive way
• Making exercises easier (breaking exercises up; doing exercises sitting instead of standing) and harder (alter lighting; add sensory stimulation; enhance speed)
• The impact role reversal can have on vision therapy exercises, giving children the instructor role, and thus, the power in the relationship
• The importance of kids feeling safe and comfortable when trying something new – which could be accomplished by taking some unpredictability out of these exercises

Resources & Links

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If you enjoyed this show, please rate, review, and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. We really appreciate your support! Send us a screenshot of your review and receive 10% off any one of our 4D Vision Gym products or services. And if your friends or family are experiencing inexplicable challenges, refer them to this podcast and tell them, “It Could Be Your Eyes.”