Focusing Challenges

Why does my child have difficulties focusing? A sensory explanation

Focusing difficulty can be due to vestibular and crossing midline challenges.

Vestibular challenges:

Vestibular challenges are those involving the semicircular canals located in the inner ear. This system tells us how our head is positioned and allows us to balance. 

When not working well, we tend to be in constant movement, attempting to hit the vestibular threshold we need to feel “just right”. This movement interferes with our ability to focus and complete tasks well. 

When functioning well, the vestibular system allows for the focus required for tasks at home and at school. This is in part due to regulation of excessive movement that can distract from the task at hand.

Crossing Midline:

Crossing Midline refers to concepts such as the ability to easily cross arms and legs and eyes over the body’s vertical midline.

When functioning well, it allows for smooth visual tracking without loss of target when moving eyes across the vertical midline. This makes focus much easier for longer periods of time.

The function of these systems can be improved with sensory integration therapies.

For more information about sensory integration and reflex integration, check us out on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61557947101668

or on our website: https://www.movingpartstherapy.com/