As a parent, it can be difficult to know if your child needs glasses. You may notice them squinting or sitting too close to the television, but how do you know for sure? In this blog post, we’ll share some common signs that your child may need glasses and what steps you can take to ensure they have the best possible vision.
1. Squinting/holding objects close to their face
One of the most obvious signs your child may need glasses is if they are constantly squinting or holding objects close to their face to see them better. This could be a sign of nearsightedness (or myopia), which makes distant objects appear blurry. If you notice your child doing this frequently, it’s time to schedule an eye exam with a qualified optometrist.
2. Tilting their head/covering one eye
If you notice that your child is tilting their head or covering one eye while reading or watching TV, this could also be a sign that they need glasses. Children with uncorrected vision issues may try to compensate by adjusting their head position or closing one eye to focus better. It’s important to address these behaviors early on to prevent further strain on their eyes.
3. Trouble concentrating in school
Poor vision can impact a child’s ability to concentrate and perform well in school. If you see that your child is having trouble focusing on tasks, reading small print, or following along in class, it could be due to vision problems. If you notice these signs, it’s important to schedule an eye exam for your child to make sure they have the best chance of succeeding in school.
4. Behavioral issues
Sometimes, a child’s vision issues might manifest as behavioral problems instead of physical signs. If your child is avoiding activities that require good vision, such as reading or playing sports, it could be because they are struggling to see clearly. They may also become frustrated or irritable when trying to focus on tasks that require visual acuity.
5. Clumsiness
Finally, frequent trips and falls or clumsiness could also indicate that your child needs glasses. Untreated vision problems like amblyopia (lazy eye) or strabismus (crossed eyes) can affect their depth perception and coordination. By addressing these issues with the right eyewear, you can help improve their vision and overall quality of life.
Importance of pediatric eye exams
It’s important to remember that your child’s eyesight can change rapidly as they grow and develop. Even if your child has had perfect vision in the past, their eyesight can deteriorate over time. Regular eye exams are essential for monitoring your child’s vision health and catching any potential issues early on.
If you suspect that your child needs glasses, the first step is to schedule an eye exam with a qualified optometrist. During the exam, the optometrist will perform various tests to figure out the severity of your child’s vision problems and suggest treatment options to correct them. If your child needs glasses, make sure to involve them in the selection process so they feel comfortable and confident wearing their new eyewear.
At Overland Optical Family Eye Care, we offer a great selection of high-quality children’s eyewear in Overland and St. Charles from top brands like Dilli Dalli, db4k, Ray-Ban Youth, Lulu Guinness, and Wiley X Youth Force. Our experienced team will help you find the perfect pair of glasses for your little one so they can see clearly and comfortably throughout the day. Contact us today to schedule your child’s eye exam in Overland or St. Charles!