What Are Signs of Vision Problems in Children?

Good vision is a vital part of good overall health. As a parent, you must protect your child’s eye health. To do so, schedule regular eye exams for your child and look for signs of vision problems. 

 

Untreated vision issues can affect a child’s learning ability, leading to academic and behavioral problems. Spotting signs of poor vision can help ensure your child receives early treatment. The following are signs of vision problems in children. 

 

 

Inability to Maintain Steady Eye Contact 

 

 

One of the early signs of eye issues in babies is the ability to maintain steady eye contact. It is something babies should be able to do after three months. If your child fails to track an object as it moves across the field of vision, they may be unable to see it. If you notice this in your child, visit an eye doctor. 

 

 

Misaligned Eyes 

 

 

If your baby has misaligned eyes, it can lead to vision problems. Most children have occasional strabismus or misaligned eyes before four months, but the issue usually resolves itself. But if the issue persists beyond four months, with the eyes drifting outward or crossing inward, it is not normal. Visit a pediatric eye doctor to have your child’s eyes examined. 

 

 

Squinting and Excessive Blinking

 

 

Squinting is usually a sign of vision problems where the child tries to focus for the object to become clearer. If your child squints when reading or watching TV, you need to have their eyes checked. Excessive blinking is an attempt to clear or wipe the eyes to see better. If your child blinks excessively, it could be a sign of nearsightedness. 

 

 

A Short Attention Span 

 

 

If your child quickly loses interest in projects, games, reading, and other activities, it could be due to vision difficulties. Participating in lengthy activities or projects can be problematic for children with vision problems. The activities require clear vision, and the child may experience eye fatigue from long concentration. Anything that requires close focus can become frustrating.

 

 

Tilting or Turning the Head to the Side

 

 

Tilting the head can signify that one eye has stronger vision than the other. If your child turns their head to look at an object in front of them, they could have a refractive error. Your child may have myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism. It could also be due to an eye misalignment. An eye exam will help diagnose the issue. 

 

 

Moving Close to Objects

 

 

If a child moves close or pulls an object near to see clearly, it is a sign of myopia or nearsightedness. The child may also move close to the TV to see better, and making out facial features may be difficult. The child may not be able to see the blackboard in the classroom, leading to learning difficulties. 

 

Regular eye exams are vital for ensuring good eye health. Success in school is closely linked to eye health and good vision. Learning requires intense visual involvement in the classroom and out on the field. Regular eye exams are an essential part of overall health. The earlier the eye or vision issue is detected and treated, the better the long-term prognosis. 

 

For more signs of vision problems in children, visit Ridgeview Eye Care at our Olathe or De Soto, Kansas office. Call (913) 270-8598 or (913) 270-6017 to schedule an appointment today.

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