10 Signs Your Child May Be Experiencing Vision Problems
Your child may be experiencing vision problems
Undetected vision problems can affect your child's performance at school and daily activities. Lookout for subtle cues like squinting, head tilting, or eye rubbing – they could be signs.
10 signs to watch for
1. Tiredness or complaints of discomfort
If your child is exerting more energy than their peers to do the same activities, or is showing signs of discomfort or lethargy, it could be linked to vision trouble.
2. Short Attention Span
Young kids might lose interest and stop paying attention if they can't see things clearly on a blackboard or screen.
3. Avoiding detail-focused activities
When a child cannot see well, they tend to avoid activities such as reading, drawing, or using a computer. This is because these activities strain their eyes.
4. Frequent headaches
Children with undiagnosed farsightedness often experience painful headaches from the strain of trying to compensate for their blurry vision.
5. Covers one eye
If you see your child covering one eye, the cause could be that one eye is performing a function better than another. Covering an eye is simply an easy way for a child to "turn off" the eye.
6. Tilting of the head or other abnormal head postures
If you see your child tilting their head in any unusually aligned direction, it may be a sign of vision problems, such as eye misalignment, nystagmus, droopy eyelids, or any other type of refractive error.
7. Getting really close to reading materials and screens
It's the oldest sign in the book. Watching anyone press their nose close up to a book or screen is a sure sign that they're struggling with focusing.
8. Squinting
Because visual work such as reading, drawing, or even working on a computer involves significant eye strain, a child struggling to see the details will avoid these types of behaviours.
9. Light Sensitivity
Light sensitivity is usually harmless. However, it may be a sign of possible refractive eye health issues. Sensitivity to light may show up as squinting, double vision, halos or it can induce headaches.
10. A drop in school performance
Struggling with vision will impact a child's ability to learn. If your child's grades and attention suddenly decline, it could be a sign of vision problems that should be addressed promptly.
Bright futures begin with healthy eyes
Eye exams can detect refractive errors, such as nearsightedness, astigmatism and much more. Ensure your child has the best vision possible. Stop by for a visit today.
Frequently asked questions
At What Age Should a Child Have Their First Eye Exam in Canada?
Our optometrists recommend a first eye exam between 6 and 9 months, following the CAO schedule. Your child should then have at least one exam between ages 2 and 5. From 6 to 19, the CAO recommends yearly exams for low-risk children.
Are Kids’ Eye Exams Free in Ontario and Alberta?
At FYidoctors clinics in Ontario, OHIP covers one major eye exam every 12 months through age 19, while Alberta coverage is partial. OHIP doesn’t cover glasses (Government of Ontario). In Alberta, fees may apply above the AHCIP benefit (Government of Alberta).
Does My Child Need to Know Letters to Have an Eye Exam?
Optometrists can examine children long before they read. The CAO recommends a first exam at 6 to 9 months, so exams don’t depend on letter charts. Optometrists can use shapes, pictures and other child-friendly methods instead (BC Doctors of Optometry).
Can Lazy Eye Be Corrected?
Optometrists can diagnose and treat lazy eye, and early treatment gives the best chance of recovery. The CAO says treatment is most effective between about ages 3 and 6. Options include glasses, patching or atropine drops, depending on the cause. Results vary by child.
Can My Child’s Myopia Be Slowed?
Yes, FYidoctors offers myopia management to help slow your child’s myopia. CAO-listed options include peripheral defocus glasses, peripheral defocus soft contact lenses, ortho-k and atropine drops. None of these cure myopia. Your optometrist will recommend an approach for your child.