However, many children may not know that they have a problem because they think the way they see is the way everyone else sees. An eye exam is the ideal way for parents to know if their child has a vision problem. Parents should also watch for the following signs:
What do your child’s eyes look like?
- Eyes don’t line up, one eye appears crossed or looks outward
- Eyelids are red-rimmed, crusted or swollen
- Eyes are watery or red (inflamed)
How does your child act?
- Rubs eyes a lot
- Closes or covers one eye
- Tilts head or thrusts head forward
- Has trouble reading or doing other close-up work, or holds objects close to eyes to see
- Blinks more than usual or seems cranky when doing close-up work
- Squints eyes or frowns
What does your child say?
- “My eyes are itchy,” “my eyes are burning” or “my eyes feel scratchy.”
- “I can’t see very well.”
- After doing close-up work, your child says “I feel dizzy,” “I have a headache” or “I feel sick/nauseous.”
- “Everything looks blurry,” or “I see double.”
According to the American Optometric Association, studies indicate that 60 percent of children identified as “problem learners” actually suffer from undetected vision problems, and in some cases have been inaccurately diagnosed. If your child struggles with reading or gets frustrated while doing near work, talk to their eye care professional and ask them to make sure they have the visual skills needed to make this school year the best one yet!
Sources:
- Is Your Child’s Vision Ready for School Success? by Halle Pardun, Aug 30, 2017
- VISION AND LEARNING: IS YOUR CHILD READY FOR SCHOOL? July 31, 2016
Make your appointment today
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Due to COVID-19 safety protocols, all eyewear services are currently by appointment only. Please call to make an appointment.
At Golden Eye Optometry, we view good vision care as front line protection at every age. A routine eye exam can detect more than poor vision. It can shed early light on glaucoma, macular degeneration, cataracts and diabetes.