How to Recognize if Your Child Needs an Eye Exam
Posted on: 28 September 2023
Good vision is essential to a child's overall development and learning, which is why it's important to ensure that your child is routinely getting their eyes checked. During the early years, children's eyesight can change rapidly, and if left undetected, vision problems can cause significant problems in the long run. In this blog, you'll go through some vital signs that suggest your child needs an eye exam and why it's important to take action early.
Your Child Is Constantly Rubbing Their Eyes
If your child frequently rubs their eyes, it can signify that their eyes are excessively dry or that something else isn't right with their vision. Kids who rub their eyes all the time can even develop dark circles around their eyes, which is a further sign of an eye issue.
Your Child Gets Frequent Headaches
Headaches can come about because of several different reasons, but if they occur frequently, it might be because of issues with your child's eyesight. Children may experience headaches when looking at screens for too long, reading, or during activities that require focusing.
Your Child Tilts Their Head or Squints
Children may tilt their heads or squint when trying to see something clearly. This can cause eye strain and is a sign that their eyes are not functioning correctly. If you notice your child making these gestures, it's time to get them an eye exam.
Your Child Does Poorly in School
Eye problems like nearsightedness or farsightedness can affect your child's ability to read, write, and learn. If your child's school performance isn't what you're expecting, it's worth ruling out if their eyesight is to blame.
Your Child Has Delayed Reading Skills
If your child is finding it hard to learn basic reading skills, such as letter recognition or phonetics, it could be because of an undiagnosed vision problem. Early detection and treatment can dramatically improve their reading abilities and their overall success as a student.
It's always worth keeping an eye on your child's vision health, even if they aren't showing any obvious signs of eye strain. Remember, many eye problems in children don't have clear signs, which is why it's important to get their eyes checked annually. If you notice your child is experiencing any of these signs, be sure to book an eye exam with your optometrist. It could be a small problem that needs a straightforward solution, which can significantly improve your child's life.
Contact a local optometry office to learn more.
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