It can sometimes be tricky to tell if your child is having trouble seeing. Often, children aren’t aware of their vision issues and might not have the words to describe what they’re experiencing. That’s why it’s important to recognize the signs early on to ensure they get the proper care.
Signs Your Child Needs Glasses
Eye problems in children are very common, but the signs are often subtle and easy to miss. When left undiagnosed or untreated, vision issues can affect a child’s performance at school, impact their ability to participate in sports, and hinder their overall development. Luckily, many vision problems can be solved with a simple pair of glasses.
Here are some common signs that your child may need glasses:
1. Difficulty with Near Vision Activities
Does your child struggle with reading, homework, or using a computer? If they often complain of blurry vision during these tasks or avoid activities that require near vision, it could be a sign that they need glasses.
2. Trouble Keeping Their Place While Reading
Children with vision issues may have difficulty keeping their place while reading or may frequently lose their spot. This could indicate a refractive error, such as farsightedness (hyperopia) or nearsightedness (myopia).
3. Tilting Their Head or Squinting
If your child often tilts their head or squints when watching TV or during class, it may be a sign that they are straining their eyes to see clearly. This behavior is often associated with an undiagnosed vision problem.
4. Eye Rubbing or Teary Eyes
Frequent rubbing of the eyes or complaining of watery eyes can signal eye irritation due to poor vision. If this is happening often, it’s time to consider an eye checkup.
5. Headaches or Eye Fatigue
If your child often complains of headaches or feels tired after reading or doing near vision tasks, this could be a sign that their eyes are not functioning optimally. Eye fatigue is a common symptom of refractive errors.
6. Closing One Eye to See Better
Children who close one eye when reading or watching TV may have astigmatism or another refractive error. Closing one eye can sometimes help them compensate for blurry vision.
7. Holding Books Too Close to Their Face
If your child is holding books or other materials too close to their face to see better, this is a strong indication that they may need glasses, especially for farsightedness.
8. Sitting Close to Screens
If your child sits unusually close to the TV or computer, it may be a sign that they are straining their eyes to see clearly. This behavior is common among children with nearsightedness (myopia).
9. Using Their Finger to Guide Their Eyes
When your child uses their finger to help them read, they may be struggling to focus. This can be a sign of difficulty with reading, often due to an undiagnosed vision problem.
The Importance of Regular Eye Exams
Even if your child isn’t showing any symptoms, routine eye checkups are crucial, especially as they begin school. Eye exams can detect vision problems early, preventing future learning difficulties and ensuring your child’s eyes are healthy.
If you notice any of the above signs, schedule an appointment with one of our eye doctors for a thorough evaluation. During the exam, our optometrist will check for refractive errors such as myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism and can recommend the right glasses or contact lenses to help.
Eyeglasses for Kids: What to Expect
If your child is diagnosed with a refractive error, glasses will likely be prescribed to correct their vision. Your optometrist will discuss the best type of glasses for your child’s needs, and our optical team can help you choose frames that your child will feel comfortable and confident wearing.
Bifocal or multifocal lenses might be recommended for children with more severe vision issues. For those who are a bit older, contact lenses may be an option, though this requires responsibility and proper care.
Request an Eye Exam Today
If you suspect your child needs glasses, don’t wait. The earlier vision problems are addressed, the better the outcome for your child’s overall development and health. Schedule an appointment with us at Eyes on Group to get the best care for your child’s eyes.
Frequently Asked Questions with Our Optometrist
How do I know if my child needs glasses?
Signs such as squinting, headaches, difficulty reading, or holding objects too close could indicate that your child needs glasses. If you notice any of these behaviors, it’s important to schedule an eye exam.
Can eye problems be treated with glasses?
Yes, most vision problems, such as nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism, can be corrected with glasses or contact lenses.