‘My child is so smart but they aren’t doing well in school’. We hear this scenario so often.
Have you considered maybe perhaps classroom lighting is affecting your child’s behaviour and grades? Here’s how…
Lighting has a significant impact on children with Irlen syndrome, a condition that affects how the brain processes visual information. Improper lighting can exacerbate their difficulties, influencing both learning and academic performance.
- Sensitivity to Light
- Bright or fluorescent lights can cause discomfort, headaches, or visual distortions for kids with Irlen syndrome.
- This discomfort can make reading, writing, or focusing in a classroom setting challenging.
- Visual Distortions
- Harsh lighting may increase issues like blurring, doubling, or movement of text on the page.
- These distortions make reading slower and more frustrating, which can affect grades.
- Fatigue and Concentration
- Poor lighting conditions can lead to visual and mental fatigue, reducing attention span and productivity during learning activities.
- Emotional Impact
- Continuous struggle with visual tasks due to lighting issues can lower confidence and increase anxiety, further hindering academic performance.
Solutions:
- Use natural or softer lighting when possible.
- Avoid fluorescent lights or use covers to reduce flicker and brightness.
- Provide Irlen lenses or overlays tailored to the child’s needs to filter problematic light wavelengths and improve visual processing.
Creating a visually comfortable environment can help these children focus better, learn more effectively, and improve their academic outcomes.