# How to explain your CVI

> CVI means the part of your brain that makes sense of what you see works differently. You don't have to explain everything. Pick the short version that fits, say what helps you, and it's okay to close your eyes or take a break when it gets too much.

Updated 2026-10-04. Canonical: https://cviexplained.com/for-kids-and-teens/

This page is for you.

You don't have to read it all.
Pick the part you need.

## What CVI is, in plain words

CVI is about my brain, not my eyes.
My brain works differently with what my eyes send it.

So some things are harder to see.
Busy places. Crowds. Things that move fast.
Faces. Things far away.

It's not the same for everyone with CVI.
You know your own CVI best.

## Fill in your own

- "Busy places are hard for me. ________ helps."
- "I see best when ________."
- "It's hard for me to find ________."

## For a friend (20 seconds)

"I have CVI. It's in my brain, not my eyes. My brain has a hard time with busy stuff.
If I don't wave back, I probably didn't spot you.
Say your name when you come up to me. That really helps."

## For a teacher

"I have CVI. It's a vision problem in my brain, not my eyes.
I see best when the page isn't crowded, and when I get a bit more time.
It's harder for me later in the day.
If I look away or close my eyes, I'm not ignoring you. I'm resting my eyes so I can listen."

## For a coach or a new adult

"I have CVI. Things that move fast, like a ball, can be hard for me to see in time.
Please tell me out loud what's happening.
Show me new places before it gets busy."

## When things get hard

- "I can't see it when it's that busy. Can you move it here?"
- "Can you say it instead of pointing?"
- "Who's talking? Can you say your name?"
- "I need a minute before I answer."
- "My eyes are tired. Can I listen instead?"
- "Can I go before the hallway fills up?"

## When people say things

**"But you looked right at it."**
"Looking isn't the same as seeing it. My brain needs more time."

**"You don't look like you have a vision problem."**
"CVI is in my brain, so you can't tell by looking at me."

**"You saw it yesterday."**
"My vision changes. When I'm tired or it's busy, it's harder."

## It's okay to take a break

Closing your eyes is allowed.
So is putting your head down, going somewhere quiet, or listening instead of looking.

Nicola McDowell is a grown-up with CVI.
She says when a place is busy and she feels overwhelmed, she simply shuts her eyes.

## You're not the only one

An 8-year-old named Krish made a slideshow for his class called "How My World Works."
He told his classmates: "Don't be scared to ask me about my CVI."

You could make one too. Or just use the words on this page.

## A note for parents

Kids with CVI have almost nothing written for them. Read this page together, then let your child choose their own words. Practice the short version at home, where it's quiet. Tell your child's teacher which words your child likes to use, so everyone says the same thing.

For siblings, see cviexplained.com/for-siblings/. For the rest of the family, see cviexplained.com/explain-to-family/.

## Questions people ask

### Do I have to tell people I have CVI?

No. It's your choice who you tell and how much. Many kids find it helps to tell their teacher and one or two friends.

### What if someone doesn't believe me?

That happens, and it isn't your fault. Say it once, simply. Then ask a parent or teacher to help explain.

## Sources

- [Perkins School for the Blind, How my world works, Self-advocacy and CVI](https://www.perkins.org/resource/how-my-world-works-self-advocacy-and-cvi/)
- [Perkins School for the Blind, 4 things to know about CVI from adults who have it](https://www.perkins.org/4-things-to-know-about-cvi-from-adults-who-have-it/)

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CVI Explained gives general information. It is not medical or legal advice and it does not diagnose.