Vision

1. Figure-Ground Perception

Definition: Figure-ground perception is the ability to distinguish a visual stimulus (the “figure”) from its surrounding background (the “ground”).

Relation to Handwriting: Children with challenges in figure-ground perception may struggle to locate specific letters or words on a crowded page, leading to difficulties in reading and writing tasks.

2. Divergence

Definition: Divergence refers to the outward movement of both eyes away from each other to focus on an object moving farther away.

Relation to Handwriting: Effective divergence allows children to adjust their focus between near and distant visual stimuli, such as shifting gaze from their notebook to the classroom board, facilitating better copying and note-taking.

3. Fixation

Definition: Fixation is the ability to maintain steady visual attention on a single target.

Relation to Handwriting: Stable fixation is crucial for accurately perceiving letters and words, enabling precise copying and reading.

4. Fixation with Head Movement

Definition: This involves maintaining visual focus on a target while simultaneously moving the head, requiring coordination between eye and neck muscles.

Relation to Handwriting: Children who rely excessively on head movements for fixation may experience fatigue and reduced writing endurance, impacting handwriting quality.

5. Shifting Gaze/Saccades Left/Right

Definition: Saccades are rapid, ballistic eye movements that abruptly change the point of fixation from one location to another.

Relation to Handwriting: Efficient saccadic movements enable children to shift their gaze smoothly across a line of text, which is essential for reading fluency and accurately spacing letters and words during writing.

6. Tracking H Pattern

Definition: This refers to the ability to follow a visual stimulus moving in an “H” pattern, assessing horizontal and vertical eye movements.

Relation to Handwriting: Proficient tracking in the H pattern indicates well-coordinated eye movements, supporting the ability to follow lines of text and maintain proper letter alignment.

7. Convergence

Definition: Convergence is the inward movement of both eyes toward each other to focus on a close object.

Relation to Handwriting: Adequate convergence is necessary for tasks requiring near vision, such as reading and writing. Poor convergence can lead to eye strain and difficulties in maintaining focus on written work.

8. Tracking O Pattern

Definition: This involves the ability to smoothly follow a circular motion, assessing the coordination of eye movements in all directions.

Relation to Handwriting: Effective circular tracking supports the development of smooth, rounded letter formations and overall handwriting fluidity.

Visual Representation: