Warning Signs of Vision Problems in Kids

Have you noticed your child squinting or sitting closer and closer to the television? A vision problem may be the reason. Eye problem is really very hard to detect especially in the cases of children. My daughter who is only 8 years old has been wearing glasses for 8 months now. And I thought nothing is wrong with her eyes until she told us that she had difficulty reading the flash cards that her teacher used during their Math class. So we consulted a doctor and we were shocked because her eye grade is 250 on both eye. Well it is such a pain to see her wearing eye glasses at a very early age but I was so relieved the she got used to it already and her vision is improving. 

To help catch a vision problem early, be on the lookout for any of these eight signs that your child may need glasses:


1. Squinting 

Squinting is a common sign of a vision problem because doing so can help bring blurry objects into focus.

2. Covering One Eye or Tilting Head

If a child has diplopia, or double vision, she may begin covering one eye or tilting her head to make the double images go away.

3. Sitting Close to the Television

Many moms find that a child's television habits can reveal the need for glasses.  

4. Difficulty at School

Difficulty seeing the chalkboard is another reason to visit the doctor. Similarly, if your normally all-star student starts inexplicably having trouble with schoolwork, a vision problem may be the culprit. 

5. Frequent Headaches

Watch your child for headaches, If you notice this, take him/her to the eye doctor. Headaches can be another sign of a vision problem.

6. Rubbing Eyes

The eye fatigue or strain from a vision problem can also cause a child to frequently rub their eyes. 

7. Trouble with Reading 

If your child mixes up small words when reading, he/she may need glasses for farsightedness. 

8. Holding Reading Material Close to Face

Holding reading material closer than normal is another sign of a vision problem. You will notice that your child is working with  their noses up against the paper when studying.

Some vision problems have no warning signs and can cause permanent vision loss if left untreated. This is why regular eye exams are the best way to ensure healthy vision for you and your family.