Eye movements depend on typographic features such as letter size, font, and the length of each line. Even when visual acuity is good, children may exhibit problems with the ability to focus on small print. Larger letters and shorter print lines help some children who experience difficulty with reading.

Chronological age or grade does not ensure that the eyes are ready for small print reading. Expecting a child to read small print before eyes are ready may arrest developmental processes, creating lasting damage. According to Barbara Vitale, a national expert on learning disabilities, most children need large print (like the print size used in early primary grades) through grade four.

One of the first things to do with a child who is experiencing reading problems (regardless of age) is to enlarge the size of the print. If a reading problem is related to print size, you will notice that, in time, the developmental need will be satisfied and the child will make a transition to reading regular type. Regardless of age, the student with problems will probably benefit from:

• reading large print on the overhead screen, the chalkboard, or a chart,
  
  
• reading large print books such as those provided to children with limited vision,
  
  
• propping handheld reading material at a 20 to 45 degree angle.
  

Sometimes changing the angle supports the eyes. Taking the time and effort to experiment with different types of print or angles will never damage a child and may help.