Did you know that one in four children has an undiagnosed vision problem? Often, parents don’t know a child has a vision problem until it’s diagnosed at an eye exam. Many children don’t complain about vision issues because they assume everyone sees the world the same way they do. Understanding the signs can help you know when it’s time to see an eye doctor.
Squinting or closing one eye
If you notice your child squinting or closing one eye while reading or watching TV, it could mean they have a vision problem. Squinting helps to temporarily improve focus by narrowing the opening through which light enters the eye, but it is not a permanent fix. Keep an eye on how often this happens—it could indicate an underlying vision problem.
Tilting head
Some kids might tilt their heads to see better while watching TV or looking at things. While this may seem harmless, it could be a sign that they are having trouble seeing and need glasses.
Poor academic performance
Vision problems can impact a child’s academic performance without them even realizing it. If your child is struggling with reading, writing, or math despite putting in effort, it might be due to an undiagnosed vision problem. Regular eye exams can help identify any issues affecting your child’s learning abilities.
Avoiding reading or other close activities
Your child might avoid reading, drawing, writing, or doing other activities that require up-close focus. If your child no longer wants to do these tasks or complains of headaches while doing them, their vision could be the problem.
Behavioral problems
Changes in behavior can sometimes point to vision issues. For example, if your usually outgoing child suddenly starts acting withdrawn or irritable, it might be because they’re having trouble with their vision. Vision problems can affect a child’s confidence and self-esteem, causing emotional changes that might not seem connected to their eyesight at first.
Poor hand-eye coordination
Children with vision issues may have trouble with hand-eye coordination or judging distances. They may struggle with activities like catching a ball, tying shoelaces, or pouring drinks.
Excessive eye rubbing
Another hidden sign of vision problems in children is excessive eye rubbing. If your child frequently rubs their eyes, especially after reading or watching TV for an extended period, it could be a sign of eye strain or fatigue. Children may also rub their eyes due to discomfort caused by blurry vision or other visual issues.
Regular eye exams are essential in monitoring your child’s eye health and catching any potential issues early on. Don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with our experienced optometrists at Ensight Eyecare if you notice any signs of vision problems in your child. Our eye doctors provide pediatric eye exams in Andalusia for children of all ages, ensuring optimal eye health and vision for your little ones. Give us a call today to schedule your child’s eye exam.
