Good vision is important for your child’s overall well-being and development. But sometimes, it’s hard to know if they have a vision problem, especially when they might not realize it themselves. Here are several signs that indicate it’s time to schedule an eye exam for your little one:
1. Squinting or tilting their head
If your child squints when focusing on something, it may be a sign of a vision problem. Tilting their head is another clue, as they could be trying to find the best angle to see clearly. Both behaviors suggest their vision might not be as clear as it could be.
2. Sitting too close to screens or holding books close
Does your child sit right in front of the TV or hold their tablet or book just a few inches from their face? This is often a sign of nearsightedness, where objects up close appear clearer than those farther away. If this sounds familiar, don’t hesitate to schedule an eye exam with us to check their vision.
3. Frequent headaches and eye rubbing
When children complain of headaches, especially after reading or screen time, eye strain might be the cause. Vision problems make the eyes work harder, leading to discomfort. Frequent eye rubbing is also a sign they are struggling to see clearly or that their eyes feel tired from focusing.
4. Trouble focusing in school
Vision plays a significant role in learning. Studies show that 80% of what a child learns in school is visual. If your child struggles to focus in school or gets frustrated with reading or completing assignments, vision issues could be the reason. Difficulty seeing the board or text in books may cause them to lose interest in schoolwork.
5. Covering one eye or complaining about double vision
If your child covers one eye when focusing or says they are seeing double, they may have a vision imbalance or an issue like amblyopia (lazy eye). Addressing this early helps prevent long-term vision problems.
Schedule an eye exam
If you notice any of these signs, contact us today to schedule a children’s eye exam in Colorado Springs. Children should see an eye doctor for the first time at around six months old, again at age three, and once more before school starts. If your child is already in school and hasn’t had their eyes checked, or if there’s a family history of vision problems, now is a great time for a checkup.
Our eye doctors in Colorado Springs will assess your child’s vision up close and far away and check their overall eye health. If they need glasses, we’ll help you find the right pair that fits them comfortably and suits their personality. One of the services we offer is myopia management. If your child is diagnosed with myopia, also known as nearsightedness, we will work closely with you to recommend treatment to slow its progression and prevent more serious issues later in life. Give us a call or request an appointment using our online form today, and we’ll help ensure your child sees their best every day.