Recognizing vision problems in children and adolescents

Even though having good eyesight is important in a child’s everyday life, it is especially crucial that children and adolescents are able to see properly during school. Vision problems in school can lead to missed assignments, lower reading comprehension, slower note-taking, and an overall increase in difficulty in basic tasks. Because of these consequences, parents need to be aware of several common signs that may indicate a child is suffering from poor vision. By recognizing these signs early, a child’s vision can be corrected as soon as the problems start, which will help him get back on track in school. The American Optometric Association suggests parents be on alert for the following signs:

• Frequent eye rubbing or blinking
• Short attention span
• Avoiding reading or doing other close-proximity activities
• Frequent headaches
• Covering one eye
• Tilting his head to one side
• Holding reading materials close to his face (or far away from his face)
• One eye turning in or out
• Seeing double
• Losing his place while reading
• Forgetting what he just read

Other things to look out for include comments that may pop up in normal conversation. If your child mentions that he couldn’t see the board very well, or didn’t see that there was an assignment to be copied down the day before, that could be an indication that he needs to see an eye doctor. Many children do not expressly realize they need glasses because they think everyone has the same problems they do, or think it’s normal to not be able to see at a distance (or up close, depending on the type of vision problem he or she has). Talk to your child’s teacher and ask if she has noticed any vision difficulties during the school day. If several of these signs seem to apply to your child, schedule an appointment with an eye doctor included in your True Care plan. He or she will be able to assess the child’s vision and, if necessary, suggest an appropriate plan for correction. Your child (and his grades) will surely thank you for taking these precautions and ensuring he has the visual tools to be successful in school.

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