We know what it’s like to be a parent. The health, happiness, and well-being of your little one is top priority. You’re juggling so many things! One that can sometimes be overlooked, though, is your child’s eye health.
Eye conditions, such as myopia, can start early. Many kids might not even realise because they think the way they see is normal. Spotting signs of any eye conditions sooner rather than later is essential. A simple eye test can help support your child’s learning, social life, and physical activities.
Remember, regular eye tests are key, even if your child doesn’t seem to need eye care right now! (Top tip: check out our handy family guide on how often everyone should be getting their eyes tested!)
That said, there are definitely a few signs that your child may need glasses to watch out for. Knowing them can help you ensure your child has the best chance for clear vision:
- Squinting
If you notice your child often squinting or tilting their head when looking at words or objects, it might be a sign they’re trying to focus. Squinting temporarily improves focus by reducing the amount of light entering the eye. However, ‘temporarily’ is the key word! Lots of squinting is a sure sign that it’s time to book an eye test.
- Sitting close to screens or books
Does your child tend to sit extra near the TV or hold books very close to their face? This could be a sign of near-sightedness (myopia), which makes distant objects seem blurry. If your child is moving closer to screens or paper, it might be because they are struggling to see things clearly.
- Eye rubbing
Rubbing the eyes after a long day or when they’re tired can be normal. However, if your child rubs their eyes an excessive amount during activities like reading or watching TV, it could signal eye strain, dry eyes, or more. Rubbing their eyes can be a sign that their eyes are working harder to focus than usual.
- Headaches
If your child is mentioning that they are experiencing headaches, especially after activities such as reading, drawing, or using a computer, take note! Headaches often happen around the eyes or forehead because the muscles are working hard to focus. If your child frequently complains of headaches or eye pain, book an eye test appointment as soon as you can. Our team will be able to provide advice and if needed, prescribe your child with the perfect pair of glasses.
- Lack of focus at school
Did you know that some school struggles can be linked to vision? If your child is having a hard time seeing the whiteboard, keeping up with textbooks, or reading, they might be falling behind in class. If a teacher mentions that your child seems distracted or is having trouble keeping up with their classmates, it could be that they just can’t see the material clearly. A quick check-up can help ensure they’re set up for success!
- Covering or closing one eye
If your child covers one eye when trying to read or watch something, it could be a sign of amblyopia (lazy eye) or strabismus (crossed eyes). These things can cause the brain to favour one eye over the other, and covering the weaker eye might help them see more clearly. This behaviour can also indicate a difference in vision between the two eyes, known as anisometropia.
- Light sensitivity
If your child often complains about bright lights or seems to prefer the shade, they might be a bit sensitive to light. While some kids are just naturally more sensitive, if yours is feeling uncomfortable frequently, it’s a good idea to have them checked out. Our friendly team is here to help make sure their eyes are healthy and happy!
- Clumsiness
If your child seems a little clumsy or has trouble with hand-eye coordination, it could be linked to their vision. Sometimes, kids may trip more often or find it challenging to catch objects because their depth perception isn’t quite right. Helping them see clearly with the help of glasses can make a big difference in how they respond to their surroundings and enjoy playtime!
- Feeling a little under the weather
Did you know that vision problems can affect your child’s energy levels? When kids have to strain to see things, it can be tiring and may lead to feelings of irritability or low energy. You might notice your child being a bit crankier than usual after school or avoiding activities like reading or playing outside. If this sounds familiar, it might be worth checking their vision to help them feel their best and enjoy all their favourite activities!
Final thoughts
Keeping an eye on your child’s vision is super important for their overall wellbeing as they grow into happy, strong adults.
If you think your child might need glasses, don’t wait—reach out to us. We’re experts in children’s eye care. We believe helping your little one see clearly can open up a whole new world of confidence and fun!
Find your nearest store and book and appointment today.
