All parents want their children to thrive, which means healthy habits, plenty of sleep, and staying active. But vision is just as important, and it’s easy to miss subtle signs of problems, especially in young children who may not be able to express what they’re experiencing.
Our pediatric eye exams in Fort Kent can uncover hidden issues early, ensuring your child can see clearly, learn confidently, and enjoy everyday activities. In this blog post, we’ll highlight some of the less obvious signs of vision problems in children.
1. Squinting or rubbing their eyes
Does your child frequently squint or rub their eyes, especially when trying to see something in the distance or up close? These behaviors can be a sign that they’re experiencing eye strain or difficulty focusing.
2. Sitting too close to the TV or holding books too close
While it’s common for kids to get lost in their favorite TV show or book, consistently sitting too close to the screen or holding books too close could mean they are having trouble seeing things at a distance. This could be a sign of nearsightedness (also known as myopia), which is a condition that makes faraway objects appear blurry.
Detecting myopia early is important because it can worsen over time if left unmanaged, increasing the risk of serious eye conditions later in life. Our eye doctor can catch this issue early on and recommend treatment for myopia control to slow its progression.
3. Frequent headaches or eye strain
If your child complains of headaches after reading or using electronic devices, it could be due to eye strain from focusing too hard to see clearly. Our optometrist can assess their vision and recommend appropriate treatments such as glasses or contact lenses.
4. Poor academic performance
Sometimes, children with undiagnosed vision problems may do poorly in school. If your child struggles with reading comprehension, writing neatly, or following along in class, it could be because they have trouble seeing the board or reading materials clearly. Addressing their vision issues can ensure they have the clear vision they need to succeed in school.
5. Avoiding reading or other close-up activities
If your child avoids activities that require good vision, like reading, drawing, or playing sports, they might be struggling to see clearly. Poor vision can affect their interest and performance in these activities.
6. Tilting their head or covering one eye
Does your child tilt their head or cover one eye while looking at something? This might mean they’re trying to align their eyes to see better or have an issue with depth perception.
7. Difficulty with coordination
Vision problems can make it hard for your child to coordinate their movements. Watch for issues with catching a ball, tying shoelaces, or other activities that require good hand-eye coordination.
Importance of early eye exams for children
Regular comprehensive eye exams are essential for catching and addressing vision problems in children early. Conditions like lazy eye (amblyopia) and crossed eyes (strabismus) can often be corrected with early treatment, helping your child develop strong vision for learning and daily activities.
At Valley Eye Care Associates, we specialize in caring for kids’ eyes and know how to make them feel comfortable and at ease during their exam. We offer kids’ eye exams for children of all ages. Don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment if you notice any hidden signs that may indicate your child has vision issues. We’re here to help keep your child’s eyes healthy and their vision clear for a bright future.
