The Irlen Method
The Irlen Treatment Method provides an effective means to screen, diagnose, and treat Scotopic Sensitivity Syndrome (also called Irlen syndrome). Irlen syndrome is a perceptual problem that prevents an estimated 12-14% of the population from being able to learn, read, or study efficiently. Individuals with Irlen syndrome may be viewed as underachievers or as having behavior, attitude, or motivational problems. Irlen Syndrome is a contributing factor for approximately 46% of individuals with learning difficulties.
Symptoms of Irlen Syndrome include:
- Sensitivity to bright lights
- Headaches or fatigue when reading
- Short reading time
- Poor depth perception
- Slow reading and reading errors
- Poor comprehension and retention
- Hesitant and choppy reading
At Abba's Child Learning Center, we provide a screening assessment for this syndrome. For people with Irlen Syndrome, some assistance may be obtained by the use of low-cost colored filters, which we have available. We have found that many students who participate in the Expressways To Learning® program experience improvement or resolution of symptoms. For some people, best results will be obtained by referral to an Irlen Diagnostician for a more intensive diagnostic procedure and for fitting with colored lenses. Benefits from treatment may include elimination of headaches and fatigue from reading, and improvement in academics, coordination, and self-confidence.
To see if you or someone you know has Irlen Scotopic Sensitivity Syndrome, take the Short Self-Test at Irlen Institute website.