Visual Tracking and Scanning Deficits in Children
Strengthening Eye-Hand Coordination for Reading and Writing
Some children struggle to follow a moving object, shift their gaze between targets, or scan lines of text — making reading and writing more difficult than it should be.
At KidsHeart Medical Center, our pediatric occupational therapists help children improve visual tracking and scanning abilities through engaging, structured therapy.
These visual skills are essential for classroom learning and daily independence.
Support is available through our Pediatric Occupational Therapy program in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Al Ain.
What Are Visual Tracking and Scanning Deficits?
Visual tracking is the ability to follow a moving object with the eyes smoothly.
Visual scanning means shifting focus across a page or between visual targets.
When these skills are delayed or inefficient, children may:
- Lose their place while reading
- Skip words or lines
- Struggle to copy from the board
- Become easily frustrated during homework
- Show poor eye-hand coordination in games or sports
These difficulties can be mistaken for attention issues — but often have a visual-motor root.
When Should You Seek Help?
Consider an assessment if your child:
- Has trouble following text across a page
- Avoids reading or writing tasks
- Struggles with copying or completing worksheets
- Misses visual details or makes mistakes in scanning tasks
- Closes one eye or tilts head while working
- Has poor accuracy in ball games or fast-paced visual activities
Early therapy can ease learning and help your child feel more in control at school and home.
What to Expect in Therapy
Therapy focuses on building foundational visual skills and integrating them with motor control. Sessions may include:
- Eye movement exercises and tracking games
- Visual-motor tasks like mazes, puzzles, and ball play
- Writing and copying drills designed to improve focus and fluency
- Activities to improve near-far visual shifting
- Coordination training using hands and eyes together
- Practical strategies for home and classroom support
Our approach is patient, motivating, and personalized — helping your child see and respond more clearly.
Why Choose KidsHeart?
- Pediatric therapists experienced in visual-motor skill development
- Targeted programs that support school performance and daily function
- Therapy that blends fun with meaningful progress
- Guidance for teachers and families to reinforce progress
- Services delivered in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Al Ain
We help children build the visual foundations they need to succeed in school, sports, and life.
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Helping Your Child Follow What Matters
At KidsHeart, we help children develop the visual coordination they need for school success and everyday ease.
With time and support, they can stop struggling — and start focusing with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
No. Children may have 20/20 vision but still struggle with how their eyes move or coordinate.
Yes. Poor tracking can make reading tiring, lead to skipped words, or impact handwriting accuracy.
Visual-motor deficits can mimic some dyslexia symptoms but have different causes — and often respond well to OT.
Some children adapt, but many benefit from structured support to strengthen these specific skills.
Sometimes. We assess whether referral to a developmental optometrist is needed — and collaborate if so.