Children rely heavily on their vision for learning and interacting with the world around them. Whether they’re reading, playing, or exploring, good vision is essential for their cognitive and social development. Undetected vision problems can lead to difficulties in school and other activities, potentially affecting their confidence and overall quality of life.
If you’re a parent, it’s important to be aware of the subtle signs that may indicate your child is experiencing vision problems. Here are some common signs to watch for:
1. Squinting or tilting the head
If your child is frequently squinting or tilting their head to see better, they may be struggling to see clearly. These actions may help them temporarily improve focus, but they also suggest an underlying vision issue.
2. Sitting too close to screens
Does your child sit very close to the television or hold their tablet or book too close to their face? This could mean they have nearsightedness, a condition where distant objects look blurry.
3. Frequent eye rubbing
While occasional eye rubbing is normal, frequent eye rubbing may be a sign of eye strain or fatigue. This can occur when a child is having difficulty seeing clearly.
4. Complaints of headaches or eye pain
Children with uncorrected vision problems often experience headaches or eye discomfort, especially after reading or doing close-up work. If your child mentions this, it’s best to see our eye doctor for a pediatric eye exam in Newport.
5. Difficulty in school
Vision problems can affect your child’s ability to learn and perform in school. If you notice a sudden drop in academic performance or receive feedback from teachers about their attention span or reading abilities, it might be time for an eye exam.
6. Covering one eye or closing one eye
If your child often covers or closes one eye to see better, it might be a sign of a vision problem that needs attention, such as lazy eye.
The importance of regular eye exams
The American Optometric Association recommends that children have their first comprehensive eye exam at six months of age, followed by additional exams at age three and before starting school. After that, annual eye exams are recommended unless your eye care professional suggests otherwise.
Regular eye exams are crucial for detecting vision problems early and ensuring your child’s eyes develop properly. At Newport Eye Care, we offer pediatric eye exams tailored to meet the unique needs of children. Our experienced optometrists are dedicated to providing a comfortable and caring environment for your little ones.
Don’t hesitate to schedule an eye exam
If you notice any of the signs mentioned above, or if your child is due for a routine eye exam, don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with us at Newport Eye Care. Early detection and intervention can make a significant difference in your child’s vision and overall development.
Contact us today to book an appointment or to learn more about our services. Your child’s eye health is our priority, and we are here to support you every step of the way.
