Pediatric Visual Impairments & Developmental Impact

12-Month Subscription

Unlimited access to:

Thousands of CE Courses
Patient Education
Home Exercise Program
And more

Subscribe Now

First Chapter Free Buy Course

This course provides participants with a review of common visual problems associated with developmental and sensory disabilities. The impact of these conditions on the child’s visual function and development is described. Examples of children with common visual problems and interventions individualized to the child’s capabilities are discussed.

Meet your instructor

Cynthia N. Potter

Cindy Potter, PT, MS, DPT, has worked with children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in many different practice settings, including early intervention, outpatient, preschool, school, community-based settings, and ICF/IDD facilities for 39 years. She earned a BS in biology and English writing from…

Read full bio

Chapters & learning objectives

1. Signs and Symptoms of Visual Problems in Infants and Children

Behaviors that may indicate impaired vision and the child’s use of vision under different conditions is discussed. Indicators of vision problems based on physical appearance and movement of the eyes are identified. Case examples are presented of children with different signs and symptoms of visual problems.

2. Visual Impairments Common in Those with Developmental Disabilities

Factors including eye movements, nystagmus, accommodation, convergence, and strabismus can affect efficient use of vision in those with developmental disabilities. Common problems include cataracts, glaucoma, albinism, and retinal detachment. An overview of these problems and case examples are presented.

3. Treating the Child with Cerebral Visual Impairment (CVI)

Cortical visual impairment is common in those with severe developmental disability. The causes and characteristics of visual function in those with CVI are discussed in relation to the development of a physical therapy plan.

4. Treating the Child with Deaf-Blindness

Deaf-blindness is a rarely occurring sensory impairment which greatly impacts that child’s learning and development. Causes of deaf-blindness and strategies for working with children affected are presented.

More courses in this series

Introduction to Visual Impairments & Visual Testing for Pediatrics

Cynthia N. Potter