Using Colored Overlays for Reading, By Carla Woody

What can be the most difficult thing to read?  Most difficult is black ink on white paper under fluorescent lights, which we find in almost every classroom in America.  Why is this a problem?  The wavelengths produced by black on white can be very difficult to process, especially under bright light.  The results can include headache, eye strain, fatigue, and even seeing moved or reversed letters. 

What is one solution?  For many readers, using a colored overlay (basically a piece of plastic) can reduce the above-mentioned problems.  Originally designed for dyslexic students, we now know that using an overlay can also help ADHD readers focus on the printed page more easily.  If the reader’s eyes are less strained, he/she will remember more of what is read.  Not everyone is helped, and not everyone is helped by the same color, but a simple assessment may help the reader find relief.  Colored worksheets, notebooks with colored paper and softer lighting may also be of help.  Some students find that one color helps more with reading and another color works better for math (numerals, not word problems).

Here is a quick checklist for assessing visual difficulties:

·       Difficulty reading for prolonged periods

·       Eye strain after looking at a computer monitor for a few minutes

·       Frequent letter and/or word reversals

·       Difficulty copying, from short or long distances

·       Problems tracking from left to right

·       Frequent headaches, eye strain, or red eyes

·       Need to look away from print often

·       Problems perceiving small print

·       Difficulty keeping a place in a book

If you would like a short assessment (15-20 minutes) to see if overlays could help you, please contact Carla Woody on Monday or Wednesday between 9:00 and 11:00 a.m. in room 335A to schedule an appointment.