As parents, we spend endless hours helping our kids with homework, guiding them through colors, numbers, and shapes. But what if—despite our best efforts—they’re still struggling to grasp something as basic as the difference between red and green? It might not be a learning delay. It could be Colour Vision Deficiency (CVD)—and chances are, you wouldn’t even know it.
That’s exactly the issue Navneet Education, one of India’s most trusted names in schoolbooks, is tackling head-on with a groundbreaking initiative that’s equal parts heart and science: Colour Blindness Detection Books.
Wait… Children Can Be Color Blind?
Yes, and it’s more common than we realize. India is home to over 10 million children with colour vision deficiency. Many of them remain undiagnosed for years—not because no one cares, but because CVD often doesn’t show up as a visible learning challenge. Kids adapt. They guess. They stay quiet.
But over time? That guessing game leads to confusion, frustration, and even a dip in classroom confidence. Imagine trying to follow a science diagram, a map, or a math chart when you can’t differentiate key colors. It’s like trying to read a book with smudged letters.
A Book That Teaches—and Detects
This isn’t just another set of worksheets or activity pages. These books are a smart blend of learning and screening. Think early learning illustrations—shapes, numbers, fruits, and more—all subtly infused with Ishihara-style tests (yes, those colorful dot patterns used by eye doctors). But here’s the genius part: your child won’t even realize they’re being screened.
By the time a parent or teacher spots a mismatch or hesitation, the book has already served its purpose: early detection.
“It doesn’t visibly disrupt learning at first, but over time, it affects a child’s confidence and participation in class,” says Dr. Malgi, a leading ophthalmologist involved in the project.
Why This Matters—To Parents and Schools Alike
According to a UNESCO report, over 30% of learning difficulties go undiagnosed in the early years. And in subjects like science, math, geography, and art, which rely heavily on color-coded content, a child with undiagnosed CVD may end up misunderstood—or worse, misjudged.
“Many of these children are mislabelled as inattentive or slow learners,” Dr. Malgi adds. “But what they really need is support and alternate learning strategies.”
With Navneet’s initiative, schools and parents now have a seamless, non-intrusive way to identify color blindness in the very books kids already use. No need for separate tests, special equipment, or hospital visits.
The Human Behind the Design
This initiative was co-created by FCB Group India and brought to life by Navneet Education with insights from ophthalmologists and educators.
“It’s rare to find a solution that feels so seamless and necessary,” says Rakesh Menon, Chief Creative Officer at FCB Interface. “By integrating it into early learning, we normalize screening without any added pressure.”
“As a publisher shaping the minds of millions, it’s our responsibility to make learning inclusive,” adds Devish Gala, Director of Branding, Marketing & Sales at Navneet Education. “Colour should never be a barrier to understanding.”
A Paradigm Shift in Education
This isn’t just another educational tool—it’s a paradigm shift. One that combines empathy, science, and design thinking to give every child an equal shot at success.
Whether you’re a parent, a preschool teacher, or an educational institution, this is your chance to reimagine how early learning should look—inclusive, mindful, and proactive.
Let’s stop waiting until a child “falls behind” to take action. Let’s start with the books they open on Day One.
Watch the powerful film about this initiative here:
Have you ever wondered if your child sees the world the same way you do?
Share your thoughts and stories in the comments below. And if you’re an educator, we’d love to hear how you’re embracing inclusive learning in your classrooms!
