Children vision problems can sometimes go unnoticed for months or even years, especially if your child doesn’t know how to explain what they’re experiencing.
So, how can you tell if your child needs glasses? Recognising the signs early can make a world of difference in their development and overall well-being. Let’s walk through some key indicators and what to do if you notice them.
Common signs your child may need glasses
One of the biggest challenges with vision issues in children is that they often don’t realise there’s a problem. To them, what they see is normal.
This is why it’s essential to keep an eye out for certain signs child needs glasses, as they may not be able to tell you directly. Here are some behaviours that might suggest your child’s vision isn’t as sharp as it should be:
Squinting
If you notice your child frequently squinting while watching TV, reading a book, or looking at distant objects, it could indicate they’re struggling to see clearly. Squinting is a natural way to try to improve focus, but it’s not a long-term solution and may suggest that glasses are needed.
Sitting too close to screens
Is your child constantly sitting right in front of the TV or holding tablets and books close to their face? While children sometimes do this out of habit, it could be a sign they’re compensating for poor vision. It’s one of the most common signs child needs glasses, especially if you notice this behaviour repeatedly.
Frequent eye rubbing
While occasional eye rubbing is normal, if your child rubs their eyes often, it could be a sign of eye strain or fatigue. This could mean they’re having difficulty focusing, which is another reason to explore whether glasses could help.
Complaints of headaches or eye pain
Children aren’t always able to describe eye strain, but they might complain of headaches or discomfort around the eyes. If this happens often, particularly after activities like reading or using screens, it could point to a vision issue.
Difficulty with schoolwork
Struggling to see the board, read their books, or follow along in class can impact a child’s academic performance. If your child suddenly seems to be having a hard time in school, it might not be a lack of effort—it could be due to vision problems that make it difficult for them to focus or see clearly.
Tilting the head or covering one eye
Some children might tilt their head or cover one eye while trying to focus on something. This could be a sign they’re having trouble with one eye or that they’re compensating for double vision. Either way, it’s a sign that pediatric eye care may be needed.
Clumsiness or lack of coordination
Poor vision can sometimes lead to clumsiness, such as bumping into objects or struggling with hand-eye coordination. If you’ve noticed your child becoming more accident-prone, it might be worth having their vision checked.
Behaviours to look out for in different age groups
Children of different ages may show signs of vision problems in various ways. Knowing what to look for at each stage can help you spot issues early.
Infants and toddlers
While babies can’t tell you if something is wrong, you can observe whether they track objects with their eyes or if their eyes seem misaligned. Delays in visual development, such as not following objects or recognising faces, could be a cause for concern.
School-aged children
For older children, you might notice them squinting at the board, avoiding activities like reading, or showing reluctance to engage in close-up work. If your child used to enjoy reading and now avoids it, vision problems could be the culprit.
Understanding the causes of vision problems in children
Not all children will experience vision issues, but some factors make it more likely. Understanding these can help you stay proactive about their eye health.
Genetics
If you or your partner wear glasses, there’s a higher chance your child may also need them. Genetic factors play a significant role in determining whether your child may develop conditions like nearsightedness (myopia) or farsightedness (hyperopia).
Screen time
In today’s digital world, children are exposed to screens more than ever. Prolonged screen use can strain the eyes and may contribute to vision problems. Limiting screen time and encouraging regular breaks can help protect their vision.
Eye conditions
There are several common eye conditions that can affect children, including myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. These conditions can usually be corrected with glasses, but early diagnosis is key.
When to visit an eye specialist
If you’ve noticed any signs that your child may be struggling with their vision, such as squinting, sitting too close to screens, or complaining of headaches, it’s important to visit an eye specialist sooner rather than later.
Regular eye exams are crucial for maintaining healthy vision, and most experts recommend having your child’s eyes checked between the ages of 3 and 5, with annual follow-ups after that.
However, if any of the signs child needs glasses become apparent, you shouldn’t wait for the next scheduled exam. Pediatric eye care specialists are trained to work with children and make the experience as comfortable and engaging as possible.
During the exam, the optometrist will assess your child’s vision through a series of painless tests, designed to detect common vision issues such as myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism.
Early diagnosis is key because untreated vision problems can affect your child’s ability to learn, concentrate, and participate fully in daily activities.
Next steps if your child needs glasses
If the eye specialist determines that your child does need glasses, don’t worry—there are plenty of child-friendly options available.
Choosing the right glasses
When selecting glasses for your child, comfort and durability are key. Make sure the frames fit well and are tough enough to withstand daily wear and tear. Involve your child in picking the frames so they feel confident and happy wearing them.
Helping your child adjust to glasses
It can take some time for children to get used to wearing glasses. Encourage them with positive reinforcement, and make sure they wear them consistently as prescribed. You might also need to remind them to clean their lenses regularly and store their glasses properly to prevent damage.
Concluding remarks
Recognising the signs of children vision problems early can have a lasting impact on their quality of life.
By paying attention to the subtle clues, such as squinting, sitting too close to screens, or frequent headaches, you can help ensure your child gets the vision support they need.
Regular eye exams are essential for keeping their vision on track, and if glasses are needed, there’s no shortage of stylish, comfortable options to choose from.
If any of the signs sound familiar, consider booking a visit to a pediatric eye care specialist to ensure your child’s vision is as clear as it can be.
