All parents do their best to ensure their children’s vision is developing correctly. This is especially true during their school years when visual demands are high. Vision problems, however, can impact your child's ability to learn and participate in school activities. This is why early detection and treatment are crucial to detect and correct these issues to support your child's overall development.
At Lake Oswego Vision Clinic, we are committed to helping parents recognize the signs of vision problems and providing comprehensive eye care for children. This guide will help you identify common vision issues in school-aged children and understand when to seek professional help.
What Are The Common Signs of Vision Problems in Children?
Children may only sometimes realize or communicate that they are experiencing vision problems. As a parent, it's important to watch for signs indicating a vision issue. Some common signs include:
- Frequent headaches or eye strain: Your child may complain of headaches or show signs of discomfort after reading or doing close-up work.
- Squinting or tilting the head: Squinting or tilting the head can indicate that your child is trying to improve their focus and see more clearly.
- Holding books very close or far away: If your child holds books unusually close or far from their eyes, it may indicate a vision problem.
- Losing place while reading: Difficulty following lines of text or using a finger to guide their eyes can indicate a vision issue.
- Short attention span for visual tasks: If your child has difficulty concentrating on visual tasks or seems easily distracted, it may be due to vision problems.
- Trouble seeing the board in class: Complaints about being unable to see the board or squinting to see distant objects can indicate nearsightedness.
- Frequent rubbing of their eyes: Rubbing the eyes often can indicate eye strain or discomfort.
- Avoiding reading or homework: If your child avoids reading or homework, it may be because they find it difficult or uncomfortable due to vision problems.
The Importance of Regular Eye Exams
Regular eye exams are essential for detecting vision problems early and ensuring your child's eyes are developing correctly. The American Optometric Association (AOA) recommends that children have their first comprehensive eye exam at six months old, then exams at three years old, before starting school, and then annually. These exams help identify potential vision issues and provide the necessary treatment to support your child's vision health.
During a comprehensive eye exam at Lake Oswego Vision Clinic, our experienced optometrists will evaluate your child's visual acuity. They will assess refractive errors, check eye alignment and binocular vision, test eye focusing and tracking, and examine the eyes' overall health. These thorough exams ensure that we detect and address any vision problems promptly.
How Lake Oswego Vision Clinic Can Help
At Lake Oswego Vision Clinic, we provide exceptional pediatric eye care tailored to your child's needs. Our experienced team offers comprehensive eye exams, personalized treatment plans, and ongoing support to ensure your child's vision remains healthy and clear. We understand that visiting the eye doctor can be daunting for children, so we strive to create a welcoming and comfortable environment. Our kid-friendly practice makes every visit a positive experience, helping your child feel at ease while receiving the best care.
Request Your Child's Eye Exam Before School Starts
Your child's vision health is crucial for overall development and academic success. Request a pediatric eye exam at Lake Oswego Vision Clinic in Lake Oswego before the school year begins. Our dedicated team of optometrists is here to provide the highest standard of care for your child's eyes. They ensure your children have the vision support they need to thrive.