Signs your child might need glasses
Most children assume the way they see is the way everyone sees. A child who has never seen the board clearly doesn’t know they’re missing anything, which is why vision problems so often turn up during a routine check rather than because the child complained.
That said, there are everyday signs that are worth paying attention to.
What to look out for
- Squinting or tilting the head to look at something far away, like the TV or a sign.
- Sitting very close to the screen, or holding books and tablets unusually near their face.
- Rubbing their eyes a lot, especially when they aren’t tired.
- Covering one eye to read or look at something.
- Losing their place when reading, or using a finger to keep track of the line well past the age when most kids stop.
- Headaches or tired eyes after school or homework.
- An eye that turns in or out, even occasionally.
- Avoiding close-up activities like reading or puzzles that they used to enjoy.
School is often where it shows up
Teachers frequently notice before parents do: a child who copies from a neighbour instead of the board, or who seems distracted in class. If a teacher mentions anything like this, it’s worth booking an eye test before assuming it’s a focus or behaviour issue.
Screenings are not the same as eye exams
A quick screening at school or at a check-up can catch obvious problems, but it isn’t a full eye examination. If you have any doubt, or if glasses run in the family, a proper exam with an optometrist or ophthalmologist is the way to be sure.
The good news is that most childhood vision problems are very treatable, and kids often adapt to glasses much faster than parents expect.